Skip to playerSkip to main contentSkip to footer
Cinema Series US Film
  • 2 days ago
Location, Location, Location Season 43 Episode 2
#LocationSeason43Episode2
#Location
#CinemaSeriesUSFilm
🎞 Please join
https://t.me/CinemaSeriesUSFilm
Transcript
00:00This time, right folks, we're helping two families, well let's get straight in then, who are desperate for space.
00:07Oh wow. The garden that keeps on giving.
00:10After almost a year of searching, I do really want to stay inside.
00:13They may be keen, we love it, but that doesn't mean they're not fussy.
00:17It feels a little bit cramped.
00:18If we bring the property magic, we need a rabbit and a hat.
00:22Surely it'll all pan out.
00:24Oh my goodness.
00:26So long as we work together.
00:28My handbag's in there.
00:30This week, we're in Surrey, surprisingly England's most wooded county.
00:43I'm with a couple looking for a home near Epsom, where they can put down roots with their three young children.
00:49And my couple in Hawley, with two youngsters in tow, want a home big enough to entertain their entire family tree.
00:56Have you ever looked for a tree house?
00:58No, but I'd love to.
00:59I would love to.
01:00We should do that.
01:01Location, location, location, tree.
01:03There's a show in that, isn't there?
01:05Definitely.
01:06Well, Surrey does have some of the least affordable areas to live in the UK.
01:11But for now at least, I think we best focus on bricks and mortar.
01:14Average house prices here are almost 650,000 pounds, more than double the national average, meaning the average home in this area can cost up to a whopping 12 times the average income.
01:26But our couples love it.
01:28But our couples love it, and they're prepared to pay a premium to live here.
01:31Zimbabwe born Kim and Ralph first met 25 years ago.
01:40What was it, grade three?
01:42Grade four.
01:42Or year three, grade four.
01:44And, you know, unbeknownst to him, I had this massive crush on him.
01:47She did eventually tell him, 15 years later, after tracking him down using social media.
01:53And by that point, she and her family had been living in the UK for almost a decade.
01:58I think it was meant to be, that we found each other.
02:01Fate.
02:01You mean I found you?
02:05Fast forward eight years, and fate has turned into marriage and two children.
02:10Four-year-old Rufaro and one-year-old Chiedza.
02:13Two, three, go!
02:15For finance manager Kim and engineer Ralph, life is pretty much perfect.
02:20There's just one little problem.
02:22They all live in the two-bedroom flat that Kim bought just for herself eight years ago.
02:28Oh, and they also work from home.
02:32It's quite cramped.
02:33We have got our offices in the bedrooms.
02:35If you don't have the outdoor space that I'd love the kids to have.
02:38I think the point is almost right.
02:39Oh, yeah, it's nearly ready.
02:41Yeah, we've got an allotment, so this is the space where we usually have our kids run around, play in the mud.
02:47And pull all the way down.
02:50So we basically use the allotment as a, I guess, surrogate garden.
02:54Replicating the outdoor childhood they both had in Zimbabwe is a big priority.
03:00And they don't just want a space to fit the four of them in.
03:03Family and friends form a huge part of our life.
03:06And at the moment, we always need to find somewhere away from our home in order to accommodate everyone.
03:12So if we have a house that's got the garden, that's got the space, it will be a total game-changer for us.
03:19Kim and Ralph have been hunting for their new home for ten months.
03:23We've filled about 15 properties, but it hasn't gone well.
03:26It's been a bit of an emotional rollercoaster because you like something and then, you know, someone comes in and, you know, outbids you.
03:36The house is the last piece of the puzzle, definitely.
03:39As soon as we get that piece, everything will be nice.
03:42I do love a good jigsaw.
03:45That'll explain the puzzled look.
03:48I hear there's a degree of stress involved in your life at the moment.
03:51Oh, it's absolutely chaotic.
03:53And you've been house hunting for a little while.
03:55Have you come close at all?
03:58Yes, we've placed three offers.
04:00But unfortunately, it's just not getting there.
04:03Tell us what we're looking for.
04:04We're looking for space, space, space.
04:07It's a house with three plus bedrooms and a big garden.
04:11Where would you put the garden in order of your priorities?
04:14I think one, two.
04:15One, I would say, yeah, I'd say one for me, yeah.
04:18It's definitely up there.
04:20We're going to be there long term.
04:22So we're more than happy to do work.
04:24This is the forever home?
04:25Yeah, this is the forever home.
04:26Okay.
04:28And the budget, tell me about that.
04:30Yes, our budget is around 575 and top marks is around 625.
04:35Ten months of searching, 15 odd viewings and three offers.
04:39It's time we brought this to a close.
04:40Yes, let's get it done.
04:42Let's get it done.
04:42Come on, let's do it.
04:44You're sounding like a man with a very clear mission.
04:48One I'm determined to complete.
04:50They have up to £625,000 to spend on a property with plenty of space to entertain indoors and out.
04:57They also need at least three bedrooms and a place for them both to work from home and wouldn't mind a bit of a project.
05:06They want to be in Hawley, close to family, but are happy to explore other areas so long as we don't stray too far.
05:12I'll also be staying close to family in Ewell, circling the south-west of London but covering a tad more miles.
05:23Elise and Elliot have a lovely big search area and a few must-haves.
05:28We need four bedrooms because we need a space for an office and we need a driveway.
05:34What about the open plan kitchen?
05:35Oh yes, my open plan kitchen is number one.
05:38The four bedrooms and a driveway are also number one.
05:41Always handy to know what you want.
05:44As long as you know, you can't always get it all.
05:46There's probably some compromises we need to make, but I don't know if I'm willing.
05:50That may explain why, after ten months of searching and over 30 viewings, Elliot, who works in animation, and full-time mum Elise, are currently camping out with their three children, Levi, Joe and Amber, at Elliot's parents' home.
06:06We've been here with grandparents for three months and so far going well.
06:10Yay!
06:11But obviously we need to find our own place.
06:14They've already sold their three-bedroomed property, putting them in the best possible buying position.
06:18They're also fully prepared to wait for the perfect home.
06:23And as a couple, they've already proved that having patience is indeed a virtue.
06:27So we first met at church.
06:30Elise was over on a two-year working visa from Australia.
06:33I think towards the end, I developed feelings for her.
06:37I knew that, you know, inevitably she was going to have to go home.
06:40So I didn't say anything.
06:41She left.
06:42I was gutted.
06:44Our various circumstances brought me back.
06:46And then we started dating, got engaged, got married, and married seven years now.
06:52Seven years to the day.
06:53A new home would certainly make the perfect anniversary gift.
06:57Well, we've got up to £650,000 to spend.
07:01But with such a large search area and a wish list to match, it's going to be tough with a capital T.
07:06The house can't be moved, so we want it in the right location.
07:11And then we can put our own touches on it and make it a better house.
07:14We're willing to do work on the property.
07:15You know, we're open to that so that we could improve it in future, as long as it has the potential.
07:21Opening the door to a do-rupper should help.
07:24I appreciate the optimism, Phil.
07:26I think I might just need it.
07:28What do you think, at this point, is holding up the purchase of a new property?
07:36We can't find what we want in our budget.
07:38OK.
07:39Maybe we have too many requirements, I don't know.
07:41But we're looking to try not to compromise.
07:44Right.
07:44OK.
07:45What have you seen that's come close to what you want?
07:49Has there been a loved and lost property?
07:51Has there been...
07:52There's been a loved but too expensive.
07:53Ah.
07:54Yeah.
07:56That's not an exclusive club.
07:59OK, so how much too expensive?
08:02About 50 grand.
08:03Too much, yeah.
08:04OK.
08:04Yeah.
08:05What was the thing it had which made you think, oh, if only we had an extra 50 grand?
08:09It was very large.
08:09Very large.
08:10Right.
08:11It had the open plan.
08:12Four bedrooms were all on one level.
08:13So it had a number of the things that we're looking for.
08:15Yeah, close.
08:16Did you make an offer?
08:17We haven't.
08:17We haven't yet.
08:18What was it on at?
08:20Originally $7.25.
08:21Ooh.
08:21And then they dropped it to $7.
08:22And it's still a market.
08:24Yeah.
08:24So your top, top, squeak, pipsqueaking, like, is $6.50.
08:31And you haven't thought, let's just make an offer for the maximum.
08:34We can afford to see what happens.
08:35I think we just didn't want to insult them, you know, because...
08:37Yeah.
08:37Oh, I think that's...
08:38Oh!
08:41Elliot, have you got any heritage that isn't British?
08:45LAUGHTER
08:46No.
08:48No.
08:48Does it show?
08:49No.
08:49Yes, it does show.
08:51LAUGHTER
08:51Oh, well, I've got to love you.
08:54Honestly, you know what?
08:55We need to keep this property in mind.
08:58OK.
08:59Because nothing ventured, nothing gained.
09:01Yeah.
09:03Areas...
09:03No more than 25 to 30 minutes from your area where the grandparents are.
09:08Right.
09:09Okey-doke.
09:09Yeah, because more than that would be madness.
09:11We need the help, Ian.
09:13And it sounds like they need your help too, Kirsty.
09:16They love a house they can't afford,
09:18and there's not much sign of compromise so far.
09:22Well, I've never been one to share away from a challenge.
09:26They have up to £650,000 to spend on a four-bedroomed house
09:30that must have an open-planned layout and a driveway.
09:34They want to be close to Elliot's parents in Yule
09:37and wouldn't mind a doer-upper.
09:41Well, you're beautifully perched on a picnic rug.
09:44You're planning a decent week, are you?
09:46No, I have work to do.
09:47How are your house hunters?
09:49They're in a bit of a pickle.
09:51Both of them work from home.
09:52They've got two kids, and they are crammed in a two-bed flat.
09:56So they want a lot more space, and they want to live in Hawley.
09:59How about you?
10:00A couple who had a third child quicker than anticipated,
10:03so they sold up to find somewhere bigger
10:05and would be living with three small children with his parents.
10:10So they'll be mustard keen.
10:12You'll have this wrapped up by lunchtime.
10:14You would think, wouldn't you?
10:15But he said to me, um, he didn't want to compromise.
10:18Well, after that long living with his parents,
10:21some of it all compromised.
10:21Go to a hotel when your parents-in-law are living with you.
10:24We don't talk about that.
10:26How do you even remember that was such a long time ago?
10:29I retain these pieces of information to torture you with, Phil.
10:32Anyway, come on.
10:33We haven't got time for a picnic.
10:34I know.
10:35Onwards and upwards.
10:35I'm kicking off Kim and Ralph's search in Hawley.
10:40It's where they live now, and it's where they want to stay.
10:43They love the community.
10:45Their son, Ruffaro, has just started school here,
10:48and this house is within easy reach for everyone
10:50for those all-important family gatherings.
10:53I understand you're familiar with this road.
10:55Yeah, we did make it off at three doors down.
10:58Didn't go your way?
10:59Yeah, well, I'll bid.
11:00This isn't actually on the open market yet.
11:02It'll hit the market in a day or two.
11:04Oh, that's really good.
11:05So, you're in a great spot.
11:07OK.
11:08Super excited.
11:09Super chuffed.
11:10I'm happy.
11:10Let's get on in.
11:12I knew the location would get a big tick,
11:14and I have no concerns about the inside.
11:17The open-plan living and dining area is light and bright
11:20and big enough to entertain everyone.
11:23And the garden, which we know is crucial,
11:26is an absolute cracker.
11:27It's long and sunny for al fresco get-togethers
11:30with hidden areas for the kids to explore.
11:32The kitchen has had a recent upgrade.
11:37And upstairs, there are two large doubles,
11:39a decent single, and a ready-made office.
11:42It's due to hit the market in a couple of days
11:45at their maximum spend of £625,000,
11:49and I predict it'll be popular.
11:51Now, see what you make of this as a first viewing.
11:55Oh, my goodness.
11:59It's really nice.
12:00Yeah, I love it.
12:01The lights.
12:02The lights.
12:02The lights is incredible.
12:04It's in absolutely tip-top condition.
12:07Given that the garden is very much high on the list of priorities,
12:11should we have a look at that next?
12:12Yes, yeah.
12:12No, definitely.
12:13Looking forward to it.
12:16Southwest-facing, beautiful long garden.
12:18It's really pretty.
12:19It's really attractive.
12:21We love it.
12:22Actually, keep coming.
12:23Oh, OK.
12:24Oh.
12:25So, hidden behind this edge,
12:28the garden actually gets a lot better.
12:31Oh, I love that.
12:31Oh, I love that.
12:32Well, the play area there and then the garden here.
12:35Yeah.
12:35It's the garden that keeps on giving.
12:37How about that?
12:39Yeah, fantastic.
12:40Well, you have an explore in the bedrooms.
12:42I'll catch you up.
12:44Hats off to you, Phil.
12:45That is the way to start a property search.
12:47Amazing.
12:52OK, nice big bedroom.
12:54I'll never get stressed in my life.
12:55Yeah, no.
12:56I mean, waking up to this, it's incredible.
12:59Love it.
13:00I could move in right as it is now.
13:02Yeah, yeah, yeah.
13:03The danger of showing somebody something this good
13:06right at the beginning is that they then think
13:08that I'm about to replicate it
13:09and everything's going to be like this.
13:10But I had to do it here,
13:12because in a couple of days' time,
13:13there's going to be people crawling all over this one.
13:15It's a very strong start, and they love it.
13:17What's not to love?
13:18Two big bedrooms, which we wanted.
13:19Yeah, which we wanted, yeah.
13:21All singing, all dancing at the top of the budget.
13:23I'm happy with this.
13:25You may not need to replicate it, Pip.
13:27You could have a sale on your hands right now.
13:30So, how are we doing first up?
13:32When do we sign?
13:35Yeah, I think it's...
13:36Got the feeling?
13:37Yeah, you did your homework.
13:38It ticked, like, almost every joke.
13:40Kim looks so pleased.
13:42I am. I really am.
13:43I really, really am.
13:45I'm delighted.
13:45Yeah.
13:46What are we going to do for the next few days?
13:48Yeah, you need to improve.
13:48Well, we can just all sit in the garden
13:51and then just put our feet up.
13:53We know what this is.
13:54We know it hits the mark,
13:55but it is top of budget.
13:56I want to show you other things to compare it with.
13:59And now you're going to make it difficult for us.
14:01You're giving us good problems now.
14:02If I can present you with good problems,
14:04that's fine.
14:05You only need to buy one house.
14:06Yeah, just the one.
14:08Well, let's move on.
14:08I think I may have gone for a feet up in the garden option.
14:13That's because you haven't seen my next offering.
14:15It's an absolute corker.
14:17Or, as Ralph would say, a good problem.
14:19We're in Surrey.
14:28I'm with Elise and Elliot and their three children,
14:31who are currently living with Elliot's particularly patient parents.
14:34That can't go on forever.
14:36They need a new home sharpish.
14:37And I'm with Kim and Ralph,
14:38who have outgrown their flat
14:40and need somewhere big enough to parent the way they please
14:42and party with friends and family whenever they want.
14:46Elise and Elliot, very wisely,
14:50want to stick as close as possible to Elliot's parents.
14:53So we're starting just four miles away in Epsom,
14:56a historic market town sandwiched between the City of London
14:59and the rolling Surrey Hills.
15:02So, what were you just saying
15:05as we were walking up about this house?
15:07We drove by and disregarded it.
15:10Mm-hm.
15:11But I did like online the size.
15:14Yeah, it was mainly the uncertainty on the location, wasn't it?
15:17The location, yeah.
15:17That was the main thing.
15:19Do you still feel uncertain about the location?
15:22Not sure.
15:23The street's really nice.
15:24You know, if people are spending £600,000-plus on these houses,
15:28they're going to be looking after them.
15:29Yeah, yeah.
15:30I do really want to see inside.
15:31Yeah.
15:31Okie do.
15:32OK, let's go.
15:32Cool.
15:34It may not be their favourite part of town,
15:36but if they can make friends with it,
15:37this place would be perfect for them.
15:39They are keen to take on a project,
15:43and this place has masses of potential
15:45and could easily give them the open-plan layout they crave.
15:51Upstairs, there are the four bedrooms they've asked for,
15:53and with a lick of paint or a roll of wallpaper,
15:56they could be beautiful.
15:58It's being marketed for offers in excess of £600,000,
16:01so well within their maximum spend of £650,000.
16:04So, take a left there.
16:08I think this room should absolutely be kept separate.
16:11And that door should be closed up.
16:13OK.
16:14It's this wall that needs to come down.
16:17Mm-hm.
16:17This is your big open-plan sitting room.
16:21Nice.
16:22Yeah.
16:23And you can really see how big it is.
16:26Yeah.
16:28By closing up the door of the dining room,
16:30they could create a cosy snug.
16:32Then, if they removed the walls,
16:33separating the living room and kitchen,
16:35they would have a wonderful, family-friendly space.
16:39So, now you're in it, do you want to see upstairs?
16:43Yeah, I'm excited to see more.
16:43Yeah, I want to see upstairs as well.
16:45Go and have a look.
16:45Yeah.
16:46And see what you think.
16:47It sounds like the inside could win them over.
16:49Oh, I like this landing.
16:52Yeah.
16:52Nice and why.
16:54I like this house.
16:56It's a really good-sized house with a good-sized garden.
16:59I understand the nervousness of the area,
17:03but there is always that jump.
17:06You know, the fact of the matter is that what they want
17:10at the budget they've got means there has to be a compromise somewhere.
17:16Oh, this is nice.
17:17Oh, wow.
17:18This is a really good size.
17:19Really nice big room.
17:20They can't get rid of any of their children.
17:24They can't suddenly start not working from home.
17:27So, location may be the compromise they have to make.
17:31Oh, this is really good.
17:32Oh, wow.
17:32Buggy can be parked here.
17:34Actually, that is pretty cool, isn't it?
17:35Yeah.
17:36You've got a little toilet.
17:38Oh, that's, yeah, that's awesome.
17:40It's big, isn't it?
17:41It is.
17:41It's a really good size.
17:42Yeah.
17:43Do you think it was worth seeing inside?
17:45I do, yeah.
17:46It's capable of ticking, perhaps even all the boxes.
17:49I think it's the area, isn't it?
17:51That's the one thing we need to kind of check out and get clear on.
17:54So, it's on at 600,000.
17:56I think you could get it for a bit less.
17:58OK.
17:58That's really positive.
17:59Yeah, that is, yeah.
18:01OK, then.
18:01Oh, thank you for joining us.
18:02OK, good.
18:03I'm super pleased they've given this house a chance.
18:05Size-wise, it's comparable to the one they love but can't afford.
18:09They just need to warm up to the area.
18:14Thankfully, area will not be an issue for the next property I'm taking Kim and Ralph to,
18:19because we're sticking to their top spot of Hawley.
18:22And this three-bed semi-detached is the house we're heading for.
18:27So, what are we, less than five minutes from the other house?
18:30Yes, yeah, yeah.
18:31Much quieter street.
18:33Well, I have set up a real dilemma for you here.
18:36This is a probate sale.
18:38Given that, it's in pretty good condition.
18:39Yes, yeah.
18:40But it is a big project.
18:41Loads of potential.
18:43Asking price is just under 500.
18:46OK, all right.
18:47Yeah.
18:47Shall we see what's inside?
18:49I think Kim seems nervous.
18:52Perhaps, but they have previously offered on a project, so I'm confident they'll be up for the challenge.
18:58Downstairs, there's currently a long living room front to back and a smaller kitchen.
19:03It's all crying out to be reconfigured.
19:05Upstairs, there are three bedrooms, but they could add more by extending outwards or into the loft.
19:11And the garden is as good, if not better, than property one.
19:15It's on the market for just shy of £500,000.
19:18£125,000 below their top spend, leaving a healthy pot to fund a serious renovation.
19:26Big generous hallway.
19:28Yeah.
19:29Through to slightly skinny living room.
19:33Yeah.
19:34But this is not about what you see here right now.
19:38Yeah.
19:38This is about the opportunity of what you could make it.
19:40Let's see what walls we can knock down.
19:43We have to get our vision goggles out.
19:46Yeah.
19:47Well, pop them on, because this place is packed with potential.
19:52If they created a living room to the front, and then knocked down the wall between the existing living room and kitchen,
19:58they'd have a fantastic open plan family area.
20:01They could also seek planning permission to extend out for even more space to entertain.
20:07Give me your gut feel about taking on a project of this size.
20:12We're not intimidated by taking on a project, so, yeah, I'm happy, but we'll need to just see a little bit more.
20:18Fine.
20:19Yeah.
20:19Why don't you do that?
20:20Have a look around upstairs.
20:21Three bedrooms at the moment.
20:22Obviously, there could be many more.
20:24I'll meet you in the garden.
20:25The garden is sensational.
20:26That's not going to disappoint you.
20:27OK, looking forward to that.
20:28Sounds like someone might need to borrow my sledgehammer.
20:32I see why they're saying there's great potential with this property, so you can expand all the way.
20:37Yeah.
20:37It will be a lot of work, but I think it can be done.
20:40Just seeing where Kirsty is.
20:42Hello, hello.
20:43How are you getting on?
20:44I'm getting on fine, but rumor has it that you have been doing some exciting work that's in a similar vein to some of my greatest work.
20:53Oh, really? Some of your greatest work?
20:55Some of my greatest work, yes.
20:57You love it.
20:58The potential here is huge, and they're not phased by it, actually.
21:02Okey-doke.
21:03So what you're saying is I shouldn't bother dashing over to see you because you're already halfway through house number two, and you've got some thinking to do.
21:12They're going to have some thinking.
21:13OK.
21:14Brilliant.
21:14OK.
21:14We'll keep me posted.
21:15Yeah, we'll do.
21:16OK.
21:16All right.
21:17Lots of love.
21:17Bye.
21:18Rest assured, my sledgehammer is only ever a phone call away.
21:22Small kitchen.
21:22You definitely open up this place and put an island, yeah.
21:26Yeah.
21:26Yeah.
21:27Yes.
21:28Yes.
21:28Yeah.
21:29And it's sounding like you might need it.
21:32Well, the garden doesn't disappoint.
21:34It's another big one.
21:35Yeah, it doesn't indeed.
21:36And again, it's kind of, it's got a secret bit in the back.
21:40No way.
21:41Yeah.
21:41No way.
21:43Come and have a look at this.
21:44Oh, my goodness.
21:45OK.
21:45Oh, wow.
21:46Oh, wow.
21:48This is fantastic.
21:51It's all right, isn't it?
21:51Yeah.
21:52It's going to be difficult for us to make a decision.
21:54Wow, sis.
21:55Where are your heads at?
21:57Yeah.
21:57To be honest, you just made it difficult for us.
22:00This is another cracking property.
22:02Yeah.
22:03And I've got other things lined up.
22:04So let's leave it there for today.
22:07OK.
22:07All right.
22:07Don't stress about it.
22:09All right.
22:09OK, no, that's good.
22:09Yeah?
22:10No, good problems are still problems, Phil.
22:12Yeah?
22:13Yeah.
22:14I think we may have found a new tagline, Pip.
22:16If good problems mean good properties, then I'm happy with that.
22:20Elyse and Elliot are yet to give the area of property one the thumbs up.
22:28So I'm playing it safe and taking them to Yule.
22:32Pretty much on the doorstep of the grandparents, but also a step up in terms of area.
22:37In fact, the average house prices here are significantly higher than in the area of property one.
22:42And that means fewer bricks for your buck.
22:44But even though their budget doesn't stretch as far, we've found this smart semi-detached house.
22:51Now, rumour has it that you looked at a house down the road.
22:54That's right.
22:55Yeah.
22:55We did.
22:55So you're happy with this area?
22:57Yeah, we do like this area.
22:57Yeah.
22:58Yeah.
22:58Well, you're looking much more smiley.
23:01Good.
23:01Well, let's get straight in then, right?
23:03A better start.
23:04Well, let's hope those smiles stay put.
23:07The ground floor is completely open plan and really tastefully decorated.
23:11But I've got an idea that could make it even better.
23:14There are doors leading on to a very sweet garden.
23:18Upstairs, there are three bedrooms on the first floor and a fantastic main suite in the converted attic.
23:24It's being marketed for offers in excess of, but we've been informed that their top spend of £650,000 could be enough to secure it.
23:34Now, do you remember when we went into the last house, there was a sitting room?
23:40Yep.
23:40OK, so straight off, put this wall back up.
23:46Yeah.
23:47That would totally change this room.
23:50It would go from being just a corridor to being a room with a fantastic bit of storage at the end.
23:56A lovely long table fitted right into that space.
24:00Then, here, sofa.
24:04It feels a little bit cramped, but I don't know.
24:06You know, maybe with these design changes, maybe it would feel a bit different.
24:09It would feel completely different.
24:10I can see that.
24:11Yeah.
24:11I'm just not sure of it, even with that.
24:14So, you're looking at this and thinking too small?
24:17I think I am.
24:19But you do pay more for the area.
24:22For the area.
24:23But go and have a look upstairs.
24:24Because I think the more you look, the more you get your eye in.
24:27Yeah.
24:27Cool.
24:28House hunting around one of the least affordable areas in the UK means, even with their generous budget, they can't get everything they want.
24:37It's a good space.
24:38It's not bad, is it?
24:39It's a good space.
24:40Elliot worried me initially when he said that they were looking to not compromise.
24:45I'm not entirely sure how you can house hunt with zero compromise.
24:50We'd be up here.
24:51I guess, yeah.
24:52Boys and Amber on the other.
24:54On the floor underneath.
24:55Yeah.
24:55It could work.
24:56It's not so possible.
24:57No.
24:57It is a nice, nice space up here.
24:59Upstairs has got a big tick, hopefully big enough to make up for the smaller downstairs.
25:05Did anything work inside the house?
25:07The upstairs was much better than the downstairs and we want the downstairs to be the big space.
25:13It's this you're looking for, not this.
25:14Yeah.
25:16Right.
25:16Okay.
25:17So, we need a rabbit and a hat.
25:21Maybe Mr Spencer can help us.
25:24We'll see.
25:24Pip, grab your waistcoat and your wand.
25:27We need some magic.
25:29Hmm.
25:29Or a lesson in compromise.
25:31Sometimes, those two feel like the same thing.
25:34We're in the glorious county of Surrey.
25:45I'm with Elise and Elliot, who are struggling to accept they will have to make compromises
25:50or they'll be living with Elliot's parents indefinitely.
25:53If property one is still in the running, it's a three-legged race.
25:57Property two is out.
25:59So, it's fingers crossed for property three.
26:03It's two out of two for us and we're only halfway through, so this is going to get interesting.
26:08Kim and Ralph are desperate for space.
26:12They have nowhere to work and nowhere to play.
26:16Properties one and two both scored top marks.
26:19But with the first house being turnkey top of budget and the second being cheaper but needing a lot spent on it,
26:25I want to show them a slightly more affordable option and see if that measures up.
26:31We're heading to Smallfield, a charming little village on the edge of their favourite location, Hawley.
26:36And we've come here to this cracking bungalow.
26:40I take it you know where we are.
26:42Well, you're familiar with Smallfield, aren't you?
26:44Yes.
26:44How long do you reckon into Hawley?
26:45Five minutes?
26:46Yeah, about that.
26:47Six minutes, right, yeah.
26:48Do you have any opinions on a bungalow?
26:49Love a bungalow.
26:50Yeah, I grew up in a bungalow.
26:53Let's get in.
26:54OK.
26:55This is a very different option for them and depending how big they want to go, this could really work.
27:02The open plan, living, dining and kitchen is all top spec and really well designed.
27:07It's arguably the best entertaining space I've shown them so far.
27:12And it does have the three bedrooms they've asked for, although they're on the smaller side.
27:16But with the added bonus of a conservatory, there's still plenty of areas for the kids to play.
27:22Outside, the garden is big enough for family and friends to be entertained.
27:26And there's a workshop that could easily be transformed into a garden office.
27:31It's on the market for £600,000.
27:34£25,000 under their maximum spend of £625,000.
27:38Come on in.
27:39Big, generous hallway.
27:42Very light.
27:43Through to a lovely, spacious, light, bright, open plan room.
27:49OK.
27:50Light, light, light in here.
27:51Yeah.
27:52Oh, my goodness.
27:53Yes.
27:54So it's in the budget.
27:55It's in the middle of the budget.
27:56It's £600,000 is what they're asking.
27:58OK, yeah.
27:59Does it give you any good feeling coming in here?
28:02Yes.
28:03Because of the light.
28:04Windows everywhere.
28:04Yeah.
28:05We like it.
28:06Yeah.
28:06Yeah.
28:07Well, I think there's more to see for me.
28:09I think I'm on the fence a little bit.
28:11Have a look around the bedrooms.
28:12Yeah.
28:12OK.
28:13And I'll see you in the conservation.
28:15On the fence is not a no.
28:17It's a very good size, yeah.
28:19Yeah.
28:19It'll fit in here.
28:20It will fit, but there'll be barely any room.
28:23I really wanted to be able to show them something that sat in between properties one and two in
28:28terms of its price and condition, which this does.
28:31I think they quite like it.
28:33I think they're being polite.
28:34I'm not seeing any buying signals quite yet.
28:38Hiya.
28:39Hello.
28:40Shall we check out the garden?
28:41Yes, let's.
28:45The garden doesn't match up with the other properties.
28:49Mm.
28:50The actual plot size, because you've got that massive front.
28:52Yes.
28:53Yeah.
28:53It kind of almost does.
28:55How does that sit with you?
28:57I'm not feeling it.
28:59There's really no scope to expand.
29:01It's just definitely a nice properties, but I think the bedrooms, I think they're not that
29:06thick.
29:07This may not be the one, but that still leaves you two strong contenders.
29:11As things stand, is there a front runner between property one and property two?
29:15Yes.
29:15For me, it's got to be property two for now, because it's just that scope.
29:19Property two, it's definitely has great potential.
29:21We've got tomorrow together.
29:23Yeah.
29:23If I could find something else with potential, that would be more interesting to you than
29:27another three or four bed house.
29:31Yeah, somewhere where we can change things around a bit.
29:34I'm on it.
29:34Yeah.
29:35I'm on it.
29:36All right.
29:36We'll leave it in your capable hands.
29:38Who told you that?
29:39Well, it wasn't me, but I could do with some capable hands on my side of the search.
29:45I'm on my way.
29:47We're still in Yule.
29:49Elise and Elliot love it, and it's not hard to see why.
29:52It's got lovely independent shops and eateries, and a really friendly feel.
29:57No big surprise, then, that suitable property stock is very low.
30:01But we have come across this gem of a house, which seems to tick most of their boxes.
30:06It has plenty of downstairs living space that could be opened up further to create an even
30:12more open plan feel.
30:13And there's already an office for Elliot.
30:17Upstairs has everything they've asked for, with those all-important four bedrooms.
30:22It's the only detached house we've found.
30:24It's very close to the size of property one, and it's in their top spot of Yule.
30:28It's on the market for £670,000, but we believe they could secure it for their top spend of
30:35£650,000.
30:36But, as the saying goes, if it sounds too good to be true...
30:40Hello.
30:41Hold on, I'm just checking my phone.
30:42I'm waiting for a call.
30:44So, house number one, they'd done a drive-by and discounted it, but actually, they were
30:49quite happy to see inside it.
30:51And they're still thinking about the area, but I don't think they really are.
30:54House number two, nah, nah, nah.
30:56House number three...
30:58Yes.
30:59Yes.
30:59Except it turns out they have already seen this.
31:02Oh, no.
31:02With their tight budget and long wish list, it's not that much of a surprise that they've
31:07seen this property.
31:09It doesn't happen to us often, but it does happen.
31:12Elliot and Lise didn't feel the love for this house and have discounted it, but it really
31:17was my last option for them.
31:18Although, I do have a plan B.
31:21There was this loved and lost house, which, when I first met them, I said, for God's sake,
31:25make an offer.
31:26They were like, well, what if it's insulting?
31:28And I was like, it doesn't matter, just make an offer.
31:29So now, I'm waiting to hear whether we can go in.
31:34So there's no point waiting here?
31:36Can you be the one person who's not put any pressure on me?
31:39Absolutely.
31:39OK.
31:40No pressure for me.
31:41Right, OK.
31:42Let's get out of here.
31:43Goodbye, house.
31:45My handbag's in there.
31:48The house they love that's over budget is also in Yule, and I can see why they can't
31:53quite get it out of their heads.
31:55It has a modern kitchen and dining room, with an additional sitting room and a conservatory.
32:01Upstairs, there's a main bedroom with en suite, two further double bedrooms, and a small fourth,
32:07ideal for Elliot's office.
32:09Some bits are a little dated, but the gardens are cracking sites with lots of areas for the
32:13little people to explore.
32:15The staking point is, of course, the price.
32:19Offers in excess of £700,000.
32:22But it's been on the market for eight months, so they may be ready to take an offer.
32:26And after a call with their mortgage advisor, Elise and Elliot have some news on their budget.
32:32You think you might be able to come up to 675?
32:35We think so.
32:36Essentially, 48 hours in, you've come to the conclusion that the loved and lost house
32:41is still your top, top house.
32:44Yes.
32:44Yes.
32:45That's right.
32:46Well, good.
32:46We've learned something.
32:47We're going to go and we're going to talk it through.
32:49If nothing else, it gives you confidence that what you've seen actually is probably quite
32:53good.
32:53That's right.
32:53But it is price sensitive.
32:55Sure.
32:55Sure.
32:56Yeah.
32:56Well, listen, I'm going to leave you to have a council of war and let me know.
33:01Thank you, Phil.
33:03I've heard from the agent and we can't get in today, but I don't think these two need
33:07another look.
33:08If Elise and Elliot want that house, I will do everything I can to help them get it.
33:18Over with Kim and Ralph, we have two great properties in the running.
33:22I can afford a bit of a gamble, so I'm taking them a ten-minute drive away from Hawley to
33:27the hamlet of Norwood Hill.
33:28It's surrounded by Surrey countryside, there's a cracking pub, and the average house price
33:35here is a staggering £1 million.
33:38The area might be new to them, but I'm confident they'll love the project potential of this house.
33:45Right, folks.
33:47My last throw of the dice is this.
33:50Okay.
33:52It's currently a two-bed, one-bath.
33:54Okay.
33:54We've got existing planning permission to turn it into a three-bed, three-bath house.
33:59Okay, yeah.
34:00And it's on the market for £450,000.
34:03Oh, wow.
34:04Okay.
34:05This setting.
34:06How about that?
34:06Yeah.
34:07Oh, my goodness.
34:08Yeah.
34:09It's proper Surrey countryside.
34:11Yes.
34:11Love it, love it, love it.
34:12We couldn't have put this on our wish list.
34:14No chance.
34:15That is spectacular.
34:16But, yeah, amazing.
34:17Should we just get in and have a look?
34:18I want to show you around.
34:19Please, please, please.
34:20Yeah, let's.
34:20Well, someone's eager.
34:21The location is a winner, so now it's down to just how much renovation they're willing
34:27to take on.
34:29There's already a decent size downstairs, with a small sitting room and then a living, dining
34:34and kitchen area.
34:36The only bathroom is also downstairs, because all that's upstairs are two bedrooms, albeit
34:41big ones.
34:42The garden isn't as generous as the first two properties, but it's big enough for a
34:47family barbecue.
34:48It's on the market for £450,000, £175,000 under their maximum spend of £625,000.
34:56But they would need it all to bring this property up to scratch.
35:00So, currently, we have living room that way, dining and then kitchen.
35:05But this would, under the plans, all be opened up.
35:09Aha.
35:10All the way through.
35:12Okay.
35:13Kitchen diner.
35:14This is reminding me of my dad's place in Zimbabwe.
35:17So, it's a...
35:18Yeah, I'm getting some vibes, yeah.
35:21Well, yeah, yeah, yeah.
35:23No, I think there's a big opportunity also.
35:25Yeah, that view, your outside dining space, it would be incredible.
35:31I think it could be a cracking property.
35:33It could.
35:33Yeah.
35:34You could get it at the right price.
35:35Let's have an explore.
35:36Okay.
35:37And then I'll get the plans out.
35:38All right.
35:40They don't seem daunted at all.
35:43This is a big project.
35:44It'd be a phenomenal home if they were to pull it off.
35:46But it is a big project.
35:51I feel like I've been transported back in time with this one.
35:54Yeah, I can't wait to see the plans now.
35:56Yeah.
35:58But what a potential payoff.
36:00The location is idyllic and the property could be picture perfect.
36:04Oh, my goodness.
36:06More problems.
36:07More problems.
36:08More good problems.
36:10It's a great house.
36:11It's good.
36:13I do wonder if it's too much of a project for us.
36:17But it's a...
36:18It's waiting to see.
36:19It's a good house.
36:21It's a lot to consider.
36:22Those plans will either seal the deal or have them running for the Surrey Hills.
36:27Come and have a look at these.
36:30Externally, they've put this bit on the front.
36:33So it comes out to the same size as that porch.
36:36Yep.
36:36Downstairs, that beautiful big kitchen, dining room, that would be lovely.
36:40So that would be a main bedroom and ensuite on the top level.
36:44The planning permission is to create a three-bed, three-bathroom home.
36:49That would involve extending outwards to the front,
36:52making space for two ensuite bedrooms on the first floor.
36:55The third bedroom and bathroom would then be created in the attic space.
37:01Downstairs, the living room stays as is,
37:03with the addition of an orangery to the side.
37:06And the kitchen, dining room opened up
37:08to create a fantastic living and entertaining space.
37:11And the quote is for £150,000 to £200,000 to build it.
37:18Yep.
37:19I don't know, how did you feel inside and the kind of size of the project?
37:23Yeah, I think it may be too much of a project for us,
37:26but it's definitely thrown a spanner in the works, that's for sure.
37:30More problems.
37:31I realise I've produced a number of different options.
37:34Yeah.
37:35And probably a few quandaries and dilemmas,
37:37but I'm here to help you through those.
37:39OK.
37:40Thank you, I appreciate it.
37:42I've thrown everything at Kim and Ralph.
37:45I just hope I haven't confused them so much
37:47they won't be able to decide what they want.
38:00We're in Surrey with two sets of house hunters,
38:02both of which have found properties they love.
38:06I left Kim and Ralph with a lot to think about.
38:08They've decided property four is too big a project,
38:12but have gone back for a second look at property one and property two.
38:16I do feel that I've presented you with some challenging decisions.
38:23Yeah.
38:23Where are you at?
38:24With property one, we can't fault it,
38:27but I think property two gives us a challenge that we want.
38:30Yeah.
38:31Absolutely no doubt that could be a spectacular app.
38:34It's been on the market about a week,
38:35nobody else has seen it yet, and it's on at just under the 500,000.
38:39OK.
38:40Have you got numbers in mind?
38:42Have you got approaches in mind?
38:44Well, I'm known for my cheeky offers,
38:46so I think for us, with all the work that's involved,
38:49I think a good starting point will be 450.
38:57But Ralph has other ideas, right?
38:59Yeah, I was thinking something around 470, 475.
39:02Yeah.
39:02But that's where my mind was at.
39:04Yeah.
39:05Yeah.
39:05Great minds.
39:06I think 450 isn't going to give them anything to think about.
39:11Yeah, I know.
39:12They're just going to go, no.
39:13Yeah.
39:14470, 475, they're going to have to have a conversation,
39:18they're going to have to have a thing.
39:19Yeah.
39:20If I was them, I'd hold out for a bit more,
39:21but I think it's a really good starting point.
39:23OK.
39:24470 at least to, you know?
39:26Let's go for 470.
39:28I've got it.
39:29OK.
39:29You've got it?
39:30I've got it.
39:30All right, we've got faith in you.
39:32We've got faith in you.
39:36Hi, John, it's Phil.
39:38So we've had a long chat,
39:39and I'm pleased to say I do have an offer for you.
39:42The number that they came up with is 450.
39:45I've encouraged them, look, we're going to do some business.
39:49I don't think you're going to buy it at 450.
39:50I think it's probably worth a bit more than 450.
39:53So I have negotiated them up to 470,
39:57but that's as far as we can realistically go.
40:02OK, thanks.
40:04Thanks, bye.
40:04He's going to jump on it now.
40:09All we can do is wait.
40:18Elise and Elliot know exactly which house they want.
40:21They've upped their budget by £25,000 to £675,000,
40:26but it's on at offers in excess of £700,000,
40:29so we're still at least £25,000 off.
40:32Why has that house stood up above all the other 30 things you've seen?
40:38I think it ticked a lot of boxes.
40:41It was always the one in the back of our minds every time we'd see another one.
40:44Sadly.
40:45It's not as good as this.
40:46It's not as good as this.
40:47Yeah, it slightly ruined us, actually.
40:48I think we've just, we've got to get on with it, haven't we?
40:53I think so.
40:53We've just got to fight for it.
40:55Yeah, I think we want to.
40:56And I think we want to.
40:57Yeah.
40:57I think we want to at £675,000.
40:59Because it can't be loved and lost unless you've really tried to reel it in.
41:04Yeah, yeah.
41:05Right, I'm already quite familiar with David, the loveliest lady,
41:08because he was trying to get us into the house today so I could have a look.
41:12It's not often I offer on a house I haven't seen, but no two searches are the same.
41:19David?
41:21Unusual, I know, but I have an offer for you.
41:25It's a very, very serious offer.
41:26They are absolutely rock solid on that house.
41:30They've sold their house.
41:31They have got everything ready to go.
41:34They have come up with £675,000 and I would really, really, really, really like it to be seriously considered.
41:41It's not just putting their toe in the water.
41:44It's not the initial offer.
41:46It is the absolute maximum amount.
41:49They're not in any doubt that it's the house for them, 100%.
41:51OK, thank you so much.
41:54You've been so helpful.
41:55Thank you, thank you, thank you.
41:57OK, bye.
41:58Given the circumstances and the fact that we're making an offer that's lower,
42:04he reckons we won't hear anything till tomorrow.
42:08I mean, you gave it everything there.
42:10Yeah, we punched it through.
42:11Yeah.
42:12So, do not lose any sleep over this.
42:15No.
42:15It is what it is.
42:16You made the best offer.
42:17That's right, I believe that.
42:18We've done it.
42:19It is what it is.
42:19You made a good offer.
42:21Everything.
42:21You've done what we said we do.
42:23Yeah, cool.
42:24That's all we can do.
42:25We can drink to considered offers.
42:28I like that.
42:29Considered offers.
42:30Considered offers.
42:30With Kim and Ralph, we may yet hear back today.
42:38Their offer of 470,000 is in, but that's 30 grand under the asking price.
42:43Hi, John.
42:48What news?
42:51Yeah.
42:51Yeah, we have.
42:52OK.
42:56Um, congratulations, John, and congratulations, us.
43:02Deal agreed.
43:04Thank you very much, indeed.
43:06Fantastic.
43:07Brilliant.
43:07Thank you so much.
43:08Bye.
43:09I can't believe that.
43:10I genuinely can't believe that.
43:14Amazing.
43:15Amazing.
43:15470 accepted because you've got nothing to sell on because you're a family unit, and that's
43:19what they wanted to sell to.
43:21Amazing.
43:21Many congratulations.
43:24Ten months of searching finally brought to an end.
43:28Job done.
43:33It's a new day, and we're still waiting for news on Elise and Elliot's offer.
43:37Of 675,000 pounds, 25 grand under asking, but that has given them a chance to revisit
43:44the house, and it's just made them love it even more, and we finally have news on their
43:50offer.
43:52Amazing.
43:54Thank you so much.
43:57Brilliant news.
43:58Offer accepted.
43:5925 grand under asking.
44:01And the moral of the story is...
44:04If you don't offer, you can't get.
44:07Four weeks later, Kim and Ralph are already full steam ahead, planning what their new home
44:16could be like.
44:18This project is really exciting for us, and on a scale of 1 to 10, I think it will probably
44:22be a 12.
44:24We're super excited.
44:25We're planning to extend sideways above the kitchen we would want to put our master bedroom.
44:31And they will look out to the garden, because our garden is amazing. That's the main reason
44:35why we bought the property.
44:36They're due to get the keys in just six weeks.
44:39The first thing they will do, I think, when we move in, is get the whole family together.
44:44They're all looking forward to coming to the new house and joining us for a special occasion
44:49as soon as we move in.
44:51It's the perfect end to a very long search.
44:54I would like to say thank you very much to Phil.
44:57For giving us a home that we know we're going to love.
45:00I think if you come back in 20 years, you'll find us there.
45:04Yeah.
45:04Yeah.
45:05Sounds like a forever home to me.
45:13For Elise and Elliot, the shock of buying a house they thought was out of their reach
45:17is still sinking in.
45:18I just couldn't believe it.
45:20Yeah, it was amazing, honestly.
45:22It's a property we'd been thinking about for probably like six, maybe seven months.
45:25Yeah.
45:26It is a lot.
45:27It's a bit of a fairytale, honestly.
45:28It's like a dream come true.
45:30Their only compromise was on budget, but that's got them everything else they'd hoped for.
45:35It ticks so many of our boxes, more than we ever thought we could on our budget.
45:39Including sticking close to grandparents.
45:42Elliot's parents are absolutely delighted that we're just so close to them.
45:45I've been really excited exploring the area where we're moving and visiting a lot of different
45:49church toddler groups with my kids and getting to know other mums in the area, which is really good.
45:53They should be moving in in around 12 weeks, and I couldn't be happier for them.
45:58Thank you so much, Kirsty, for making that offer for us and giving us the courage to go for
46:04our dream home.
46:05Yeah.
46:06Thank you, Kirsty.
46:07I really want you to know that.
46:08We're so grateful.
46:10And you are both so very welcome.
46:12If you'd like help finding your next home, then we want to hear from you.
46:23You can apply online at channel4.com slash take part.
46:59Bye.
46:59Bye.
47:00Bye.
47:01Bye.
47:01Bye.
47:01Bye.
47:09Bye.
47:09Bye.
47:10Bye.