- 2 days ago
A New Life In The Sun - Season 11 Episode 4
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00:00Today I'm in Western France, house hunting around the beautiful towns and villages of Limousin.
00:10I'm Craig Rowe and over the last 20 years I've designed, bought and renovated numerous properties.
00:16Today I'll be using my skills to help house hunter Fiona, who along with best friend Tina isn't scared to say it as it is.
00:24There are good reasons I've brought you to this area and I'm hoping they become clear in time.
00:28I'm hoping so Craig, for your sake.
00:31For my sake, exactly.
00:33Straight talking is definitely Fiona's thing.
00:36A hundred times better.
00:38That's quite an improvement isn't it?
00:40Yeah, well it wasn't hard was it?
00:43I get to visit a manor house from the 1600s with a great backdrop.
00:48I mean you can imagine it's the perfect setting for a wedding isn't it?
00:52Yes.
00:53But at the end of the day will I find Fiona's perfect place in the sun?
00:57What a view.
00:58This is lovely.
00:59It's gorgeous.
01:00Lovely isn't it?
01:01Gorgeous.
01:02Fiona has always loved travelling, especially holidaying in France and after a difficult few
01:12years she now was ready to plan for the future and find her perfect property in Limousin that
01:17she hopes can become her permanent home when she retires.
01:21She's bringing along her best friend of 30 years Tina to help with the search.
01:26Fiona, a midwife from Hertfordshire and Tina lived together during lockdown and know each
01:32other better than most.
01:34Fiona's been very outgoing and very, you know, kind of larger than life and very bossy.
01:40Tina's the polar opposite to me.
01:44She's always supported me through life's challenges.
01:48She's pretty amazing really even though we have absolutely nothing in common.
01:53But after holidaying in Limousin last year, one thing they do agree on is that now is the
01:58perfect time for Fiona to buy her own place there.
02:01She has a budget of £75,000 to find it.
02:08Around an hour and a half flight from the UK into Limousin and a 30 minute drive takes
02:13you to Limousin in South Central France.
02:16It's one of the least populated regions in the country and other than the few towns and
02:21villages, the whole area is a rural retreat.
02:24Often referred to as the French Lake District as there are more than 3,000 lakes here.
02:29The Limousin countryside offers everything from scenic walks and cycling to water sports.
02:35Because of its warm climate and low cost of living, Limousin is one of the most popular
02:40regions for Brits moving to France.
02:43And if you're looking for a bargain, two bedroom townhouses near the shops start at around £50,000.
02:49It all depends how much updating you're willing to do.
02:52So, if Fiona's prepared to roll up her sleeves, I should have some great options for her.
02:57Before we start the search, I'm meeting them to find out exactly what they're looking for.
03:02Fiona and Tina, good morning.
03:04Good morning.
03:05Welcome back to Limousin.
03:07How does it feel to be here again?
03:09I mean, look at it.
03:10It's absolutely amazing.
03:11The sun is shining.
03:12It's just brilliant.
03:13And how well do you know this area?
03:15We came earlier on in the year for a week and hired a car, travelled round.
03:20This is like the Lake District of France, isn't it?
03:23So, it's just magnificent.
03:25Do you speak French?
03:28Come see, come sir.
03:29Mm-hmm.
03:30We've both got O-level French, but we need a bit of brushing up so we're using internet
03:36courses at the moment.
03:37So, Fiona, am I right in thinking that we're principally looking for the property for you?
03:41Mm-hmm.
03:42But actually, it's got to be right for Tina as well because you're going to be spending
03:45a lot of time here, aren't you?
03:46Yeah.
03:47I work from home so I can work from anywhere at the moment and this is a beautiful place
03:52to work from.
03:53So, Tina, how are you going to be the supportive friend here?
03:56I mean, do you agree on properties and decoration styles and things with Fiona?
04:00Yeah.
04:01We've got similar tastes.
04:02I suppose I know what Fiona's looking for.
04:04We've been studying properties online and sending them backwards and forwards.
04:09Let's talk about the sort of life you want in France.
04:12What sort of thing would you like to do when you're here?
04:15We like to go walking and cycling.
04:18I like to paddle board so we'll be able to do that at this beautiful location.
04:23Yeah.
04:24I've just bought a two-man blow-up canoe which we intend to take on the lakes as well.
04:30Oh, brilliant.
04:31Anything new that you think you'd like to start doing or take up when you're here?
04:35Well, we might get some French husbands.
04:37Ooh.
04:38Right.
04:39If you could find that for us, Craig, that would be great.
04:42So, men of limousine, watch out.
04:45They're coming for you.
04:48So, in terms of the property itself, let's move on to what you're looking for.
04:53So, it must have two double bedrooms.
04:56Yeah.
04:57It must have access to a garden and be near restaurants.
05:01Amenities.
05:02Yeah.
05:03I don't drive.
05:04Tina normally drives me everywhere.
05:05She's a very good driver.
05:07You're a good navigator.
05:08Thank you very much.
05:09That's the singularly most important thing.
05:12I suspect the properties I find for you, especially considering how close you need to be to a town and amenities,
05:19you might need to do a bit of work and a bit of TLC on the properties.
05:23How are you feeling about that?
05:24Well, we don't mind doing decorating, but...
05:28New bathroom, new kitchen, but we would like a roof.
05:31Yes.
05:32Right.
05:33If you can arrange that.
05:34Right.
05:35In good condition.
05:36Property must have roof.
05:37Okay.
05:38So, we are working to a budget of £75,000.
05:41Yes.
05:42Can we wiggle a little bit on that?
05:44We can.
05:45We can wiggle to about £5,000.
05:48Right.
05:49So, £80,000.
05:50Great.
05:51So, with all that in mind, how are you feeling about getting started?
05:53Excited.
05:54We are so excited.
05:55I'm absolutely incandescent with excitement.
05:58Ah, formidable.
05:59Formidabla.
06:00Formidabla.
06:01We're kicking off this search in the town of Belac,
06:05overlooked by a magnificent church dating back to the 12th century,
06:09with a river valley, cobbled streets and medieval houses.
06:13This town is oozing with charm.
06:16So, before we see the first property, I want to show them around.
06:19Right, ladies.
06:20I thought I'd bring you here to the centre of Belac.
06:23This is my favourite place I've seen online.
06:26Mmm.
06:27It's beautiful.
06:28It's just more beautiful than it was online.
06:30We've got a lovely vista, of course, over there to the countryside.
06:33Beautiful.
06:34You've got the beautiful river that snakes through,
06:36and a 13th century bridge, the Pont de la Pierre.
06:39And actually, the centre of town is up that way.
06:42That's where you'd have the sort of shops, the bars and the cafes and things.
06:45Things like music and events and shows, would you imagine going to that sort of thing here?
06:49Yeah, we like going to shows.
06:50Love all that.
06:51Well, there's a theatre here which has a good calendar of events all year round.
06:55It's got everything here.
06:56So, I'm hoping you've found us a beautiful house here.
06:59Well, I tell you what, the first property I'm going to show you, in order to get to the centre of Belac, would be about 12 minutes' walk.
07:05That's amazing.
07:06Let's go.
07:07Let's go.
07:08Oliver.
07:09I had a feeling they'd love it here.
07:11But to get a property in such a fantastic location, within Fiona's budget, she's going to have to make a few compromises.
07:18They did say they were willing to do some renovation though, and with a bit of work, I think this property could be perfect.
07:24Right, Fiona and Tina, here we are now at the first property.
07:27What are your first thoughts?
07:28It's quite big.
07:29It's got shutters.
07:30It's got shutters.
07:31This looks absolutely stunning.
07:34The location is perfect.
07:36This is a three or four bedroom house, depending on how you use the layout of the rooms.
07:41It's set over three floors, and because it was formerly two apartments, you also have two living spaces and two kitchen spaces.
07:51Okay, interesting.
07:53And actually, I thought in terms of when you're over here, Tina, that might be quite nice for you to have your own domain when you want a bit of time with yourself.
08:00In case we don't want to talk to each other.
08:02I'm not suggesting you're going to talk.
08:03We do like each other.
08:04But when you've got guests and something, yeah.
08:07Yeah, guests coming, it's nice to arrive at space.
08:09They might feel, you know, they've got their own space.
08:11What you haven't got here, and this is one of the compromises, you haven't got an attached garden.
08:16Okay.
08:17However, if you look over the wall there, up to the fenced area, that is all yours.
08:22It's very big.
08:23Wow.
08:24It's quite a size.
08:25The other compromise, I think you're going to have to give it some tea.
08:29Yeah, that's fine.
08:30Do you want to know the price?
08:31Oh, yes.
08:32Yeah, I suppose so.
08:33So it's been on the market for a couple of months, so fairly new to the market, really.
08:38And it's priced at just over £71,000.
08:41Perfect.
08:42Speaking to the agent, because they are really keen to sell, there is definitely room for negotiation.
08:47Excellent.
08:48Well done, Craig.
08:49All right.
08:50Let's head in.
08:51Let's go.
08:52So far, so good.
08:53The garden that comes with the house might not be attached, but it's a fabulous size.
08:59One of the entrances leads into the basement of the property, where there's a kitchen area,
09:04a living room, and another room that needs updating.
09:08On the middle floor is a bedroom, another large double bedroom, and a bathroom.
09:14On the top floor is a second entrance, another kitchen area that needs work, a large living
09:21dining room, and a third bedroom.
09:24Right.
09:25Okay, so Craig, you've brought us into a room with a sink and an extractor fan.
09:32It's kind of maybe a kitchen, but maybe not.
09:36So, we've come up to the second floor.
09:38Mm-hmm.
09:39Yes, this would be a kitchen area.
09:42Okay.
09:43Straight through there, you've got one of the bedrooms.
09:46So you could knock that through.
09:47I can see you need to piece this together.
09:49Shall we go and take a look at the living room?
09:50That sounds like a plan.
09:51On this level.
09:52Let's go.
09:53All right.
09:56Right, so into the living space.
09:58Yeah.
09:59It definitely would need some reconfiguring up here.
10:02Yeah.
10:03I would knock down walls, and that's really not what we wanted to do.
10:07But it's in such a greed.
10:10Yeah.
10:11The river's just there.
10:12I mean, we can literally take our paddle boards, and we can have loads of friends stay.
10:17I mean, it's interesting, because you both do seem to be bouncing off each other, and you're on the same page.
10:22Yeah.
10:23Does that come from knowing each other as long as you've known each other, do you think?
10:25Yes, I think so.
10:26Yes.
10:27I know her inside out, back to front, round the sides.
10:30Do you finish her...
10:32Sentences, yes, all the time.
10:34Yeah.
10:35Yeah.
10:36Because we've lived together.
10:37We are like an old married couple.
10:38It's terrible.
10:40Right.
10:41Well, there's more to see.
10:42Let's go downstairs and take a bit more of a look.
10:43Okay.
10:49Right.
10:50In you come.
10:52So, two bedrooms on this level.
10:54What do you think of this?
10:55I think it's good.
10:56Yeah.
10:57Nice size.
10:58It might or might not interest you to know all the furniture is included.
11:02That is interesting, yeah.
11:03Yes.
11:04There's nice pieces of furniture.
11:05The house has got a nice feel.
11:07You've sort of warmed up as we've gone through, I'm getting the sense of.
11:10Well, yeah, because now we can kind of see what we could do with it.
11:13Yes.
11:14Yeah.
11:15It's still definitely quirky.
11:17Well, you've got loads more to explore.
11:19Yep.
11:20Go and take a look, and then meet me over in your garden on the other side of the road.
11:22Thank you very much.
11:23All right.
11:24See you in a bit.
11:25So, they clearly love the location of this property.
11:31I think they might be slightly phased by how much work possibly they've got to do and
11:35the potential cost, but let's see what they think of the rest.
11:40Oh.
11:41This is unusual.
11:44I still kind of like it.
11:46There's a lot of work that needs to do in there.
11:49Yeah, I don't know.
11:50But it's in such a good place.
11:51Yeah.
11:52I don't know.
11:53Intriguing.
11:54Intriguing.
11:55Intriguing.
11:57This renovation project on the market for just over £71,000 has had a bit of a mixed
12:02reaction.
12:03Let's see what they think.
12:06Hello, ladies.
12:07Hi.
12:09So.
12:10What have you done to us?
12:11We love the location, but there's so much work to be done.
12:15I just don't know if I've got enough money to make it a beautiful house.
12:20So I've clearly found you a location that you love here, and it seems that there's lots
12:25of thoughts about the property itself.
12:27But at this stage, would you consider this to be in the running?
12:31Definitely.
12:32Top contender.
12:33Cheeky.
12:34So for the second property then, how about I take you somewhere that has a more conventional
12:40layout, so perhaps you don't feel like you've got to do structural work.
12:43And also another thing I think would be worth looking at is a property that has the garden
12:47attached to it.
12:48Yes, definitely.
12:49All right.
12:50Let's go and see.
12:51Let's go.
12:52With everyone in such good spirits, I want to make a quick diversion to Lac de Saint-Pardieu.
12:57I know how much Fiona and Tina love being outdoors and on the water, so I think this is a spot
13:02they're going to absolutely love.
13:05Right, ladies.
13:06I wonder what you thought of this setting.
13:08Well, it's absolutely beautiful.
13:10I mean, you could spend the whole day here, couldn't you?
13:12Yeah.
13:13It's fantastic.
13:14Exactly.
13:15As of the lake itself, it's sort of a soft U-shape that stretches for over two miles.
13:20There are three different sandy beaches around the lake.
13:22Oh, wow.
13:23Fantastic.
13:24You can hire canoe boats, or of course you can bring your own.
13:27Yes.
13:28I will bring my inflatable double seater.
13:30Yeah, exactly.
13:31Yeah.
13:32And as well as everything going on the water, you've got archery.
13:35Oh, I love archery.
13:36Wow.
13:37Do you?
13:38I really love archery.
13:39Oh, wow.
13:40Didn't know that.
13:41Yes, it's my secret skill.
13:42Ooh.
13:43Oh, I love that.
13:44I'm very good with a bow and arrow, so watch out.
13:46Watch out.
13:47Watch out.
13:48Yeah, you better show me some nice houses.
13:49I know.
13:50I'll be after you.
13:51I'm kind of scared now.
13:52So the next property is about a 50 minutes drive from here.
13:55I'm desperate to see the second property, and I hope it's going to be a little less renovation
14:00work than the first one.
14:01All right, well, let's go off and take a look at it.
14:03Let's go.
14:04Coming up, if Fiona and Tina want a more conventional property with a garden, I'm hoping they'll like
14:13my next option, this three-bedroom townhouse.
14:19Today I'm in France, house hunting around the beautiful villages of Limousin, helping Fiona
14:28and her best friend Tina find her perfect holiday home that she hopes will soon become her permanent
14:34residence.
14:35Fiona can't wait to find her own place out here, with her maximum budget of £80,000, and looks
14:40forward to active days outdoors on the lakes, with Tina, who plans to be out here a lot
14:45too.
14:46The priority is to be as close to restaurants and shops as possible, as Fiona doesn't drive.
14:51They love the location of my first property in Bellac, and it's still in the running,
14:55but they felt it needed reconfiguring to make it work.
14:58So I've taken them a 20-minute drive north to a smaller village called Bussière-Poitville.
15:04There's plenty going on here, so I'm hoping the location will still work for them.
15:09And while the house does need renovating, I think the scale of the project will be less
15:13daunting than the first property.
15:16Right, so here we are now at the second property.
15:20Fiona, you don't look very happy.
15:22Well, no.
15:23When you think about that beautiful, idyllic location we were in and how we both loved it
15:28and would have done anything to the house and thought about all those things, being on
15:33a main road is not going to work for me.
15:35Right, OK.
15:36It's not peace and tranquillity, is it?
15:37Right, OK.
15:38It's a very, very busy main road.
15:40OK, and I take all that on board, but there are good reasons I've brought you to this area,
15:43and I'm hoping they become clear in time.
15:45I'm hoping so, Craig, for your sake.
15:47For my sake, exactly.
15:49There's a house I'm going to show you.
15:51It's the house with a light brown coloured door.
15:54Quite ugly.
15:55Now, would you like to still see the house?
15:57Yes.
15:58Of course.
15:59All right.
16:00Yes, because it's really important to see how much things cost, where they are, and what
16:04kind of state they're in.
16:05No, I think that's a good idea.
16:07In that case, let me tell you a bit about it.
16:09Three bedroom town actually looking at here.
16:11The layout is much more conventional, so I don't think structurally you would need to
16:15reconfigure walls and things.
16:16And importantly, you've got the garden attached to the property this time with an outbuilding
16:20that you've got there as well.
16:21And it's on the market for just under £68,500.
16:25So I know you're not feeling delighted at the moment, rather underwhelmed, but listen,
16:30let's get inside and see what you think.
16:32Okay.
16:33Let's go.
16:34Well, that's okay.
16:35Whilst first impressions are important, there's a chance they might have a change of heart
16:40once they've seen beyond the facade.
16:42And this townhouse has so much going for it.
16:45It has a garden with lots of potential and a barn.
16:49There's a spacious living dining room, a separate kitchen, and there's a shower room
16:55on the ground floor.
16:57Upstairs are two good-sized double bedrooms and a third single bedroom, and a large attic
17:03that, with permission, could be converted into a fabulous space.
17:07Right, ladies, come on in.
17:09So, looking at the property yourself, what do you think?
17:13I think even if this was the most beautiful house on earth, it's just in the wrong location.
17:20This interior seems much better.
17:23But there's no point in us looking at it, really.
17:25All right.
17:26Well, listen.
17:27In that case, then, we draw a line under this one.
17:29Thank you, Craig.
17:30We take it as a learning experience.
17:31Yes.
17:32And I'm now learning, you know, really just how important locations, different parts
17:36of that location are.
17:37So, I think for the next property, I could give you a bit of a choice, actually.
17:41I can either take you somewhere where you're still in the heart of the village, on a road,
17:46but it is much quieter, but you've got lots of amenities right nearby.
17:50Or I could take you somewhere which is quieter, much quieter.
17:55It's on a little sort of hamlet just outside the village, but then you would then have to
17:59walk about 20 minutes into the village to get your amenities.
18:02That sounds perfect.
18:03That sounds perfect.
18:04If it's the 20, 30-minute walk, perfect.
18:06I'd rather have the sort of idyllic, quiet birds tweeting.
18:12We're in that case, then.
18:14You head off.
18:15Go and wait in the car for me, and I'll see you in a bit.
18:17Okay, lovely.
18:18All right.
18:19See you in a bit, ladies.
18:21So, this property, I thought ticked lots of boxes for Fiona, but it really doesn't work
18:26from a location point of view.
18:27So, peace and quiet is what they want.
18:29Peace and quiet is what I will give them.
18:32And this Boussier Poitvin townhouse on the market for just under £68,500 is definitely
18:39not what they are looking for.
18:41Onwards and upwards, and I think we need a little breather.
18:45So, en route to the next property, I want to stop off to meet Ian, who can give them some
18:50pointers about living here in France.
18:52Hello, Ian.
18:53Hello.
18:54Nice to see you.
18:55Hi.
18:56And I wanted to introduce you to Fiona and Tina, because you've been in France now
18:59for almost 30 years, haven't you?
19:01Yes, that's correct.
19:02Yes.
19:03What is it that you love about living in France?
19:04The property prices here are very reasonable compared to the UK.
19:09And it is very sociable.
19:11The French are very sociable.
19:13Everyone has welcomed us with open arms, and we've fitted in quite well.
19:18Why did you choose this area to move to?
19:21Bellac is a nice small community.
19:25There are a few thousand people there, but it has good shops, and it is known as the city
19:30of sheep.
19:31So, we have this wonderful cuisine available on tap.
19:35Yes.
19:36I love food.
19:37So, what about the restaurants around here?
19:40Is there a good selection?
19:42Again, it is very good.
19:44In the village we live in, 15 minutes, there are 20 restaurants.
19:49And in 30 minutes, we could be in Limoges, and there are over 300 restaurants there, from
19:54Asian, Indian, French, and even English.
19:58Yes.
19:59And you are glad you made the move?
20:00Oh, yes.
20:01I wouldn't go back.
20:02I know.
20:03I just...
20:04I can't wait.
20:05Ian, I feel like we could stand and talk to you all day.
20:08Thank you so much for your time.
20:09Okay, thank you, and I hope you find your dream house.
20:11Thanks so much.
20:12It was lovely to meet you.
20:13Lovely to meet you.
20:14Okay.
20:15Bye.
20:16Bye.
20:21Coming up, if it's more peace and tranquility that Fiona and Tina want, I'm hoping they'll
20:26love my next property, this newly renovated house in a picturesque and quiet village.
20:34Today, I'm helping Fiona, along with her best friend, Tina, find her dream holiday home
20:43around the beautiful countryside of Limousin in Western France.
20:47So far, rather a mixed reaction to what I've shown them, but I am learning they want peace
20:52and quiet, so that's what I'll give them with the next property.
20:56Fiona can't wait to have her own place here, but with a maximum budget of £80,000, it's
21:01proving to be tricky to find her exactly what she's been dreaming of.
21:05I'm a bit constrained because she wants tranquility and country living, but because she doesn't
21:10drive, she needs to be within walking distance of restaurants and shops.
21:14This house in Bellac is still in the running, but they'd prefer a property that needs less work.
21:20So I've taken them to the outskirts of Verres, a small rural village, half an hour drive from Limousin.
21:27Despite house prices increasing here by about 6% in the last few years, this area is still good value.
21:33So I've managed to line up a property that doesn't need much work at all.
21:37So, Fiona and Tina, here we are at the third property.
21:41Yes.
21:42Now, I know there's a bit of wood cutting going on, but other than that, no traffic.
21:47It's lovely.
21:48Much happier here.
21:49Oh, good.
21:50Already.
21:51Much more tranquil and peaceful.
21:52It is.
21:53You could walk to a little cafe in a boulangerie about ten minutes to walk away.
21:56It's a perfect location.
21:57This, I think, really could work for you because you've got here a newly renovated house.
22:04New wiring, new electrics, a new roof, and you've got two bedrooms here.
22:09Yeah.
22:10And it's been on the market for about two months, and it's on the market for just under £70,500.
22:17It's sounding perfect.
22:19Oh.
22:20I'm excited.
22:21Oh, well, I hope I can live up to the expectation while I get you inside.
22:24Me too.
22:25Right.
22:26Yes.
22:27Let's get in and see what you think.
22:28Come on.
22:29Let's go.
22:30This semi-detached house has a pretty secluded garden as well as a garage and a storage room.
22:37There's a large lounge with feature fireplace, a brand new kitchen, and a sleek shower room.
22:43There's also a bedroom downstairs and conservatory.
22:47Upstairs is the very spacious main bedroom.
22:52So, what are we thinking?
22:54Lovely floor, nice fireplace, nice room.
22:57Yeah.
22:58Cozy.
22:59A hundred times better location-wise and pretty much everything-wise.
23:04Oh.
23:05Wow.
23:06A hundred times better.
23:07That's quite an improvement, isn't it?
23:08Yeah.
23:09Well, it wasn't hard, was it?
23:11The one thing they didn't do was they didn't put any heating in.
23:16Right.
23:17So, I think as a holiday home, you know-
23:19That's fine, isn't it?
23:20Yeah.
23:21And then-
23:22It's crying out for a log burner.
23:24Oh, absolutely.
23:25I get the sense from both of you, it's very pivotal that you're doing this now.
23:30What has brought you to decide to make this move?
23:33As you know, Tina and I have been friends for years.
23:38Mm-hmm.
23:39Um, and I've been through a particularly hard last ten years and Tina's been through some
23:47really tough times.
23:48I lost the love of my life and my best friend within three months of each other.
23:54Tina was there every step of the way.
23:59Um, and so I think when you're together in those moments and with the death of her father, when
24:06you're there in those moments, it just makes you really close.
24:10I know that whatever happens in my life, Tina will be there for me.
24:13So that's why it's so important that I find somewhere that, you know, that it's good for both of us.
24:20Yeah, of course, of course.
24:25I would say this is the main bedroom.
24:26Obviously, you've got another one downstairs, but this is bigger.
24:29It's not too bad.
24:30It's lovely.
24:32Nice beams.
24:33Yeah.
24:34It needs a bathroom or something up here, I would think.
24:37I mean, you could, I think, get quite clever and maybe just putting a little loo in a wash
24:41base to something else.
24:42Yeah.
24:43And then sort of just close it on.
24:44You would definitely want something up here, I think.
24:45Yeah.
24:46Yeah.
24:47Okay.
24:48So, some things to think about.
24:49Yes.
24:50It's got a nice feel as well, and that's something you kind of just feel, isn't it?
24:53Yes.
24:54And that's important, isn't it?
24:55Yeah.
24:56So, the garden, attached, of course, to the property.
25:01Yeah, this is a great space.
25:02Yeah.
25:03Okay.
25:04I mean, it's absolutely perfect, really.
25:05Well, I can sense there's cogs turning.
25:06You're already thinking about this one.
25:08So, go and take a look at the rest of the property.
25:10Find me when you're done, and I can find out where your heads are at.
25:13Lovely.
25:14See you in a bit.
25:15Okay.
25:16See you in a bit.
25:17See you in a bit.
25:18Well, as Fiona said, this is a huge improvement.
25:21So, I'm really happy it's going in the right direction.
25:23So, it'll be interesting to see how this one plays out.
25:27So, the kitchen is small.
25:28It's done.
25:29Mm-hmm.
25:30But, look, there's a loom.
25:31Toilet there.
25:32That's stuck.
25:33Very nice.
25:34That wouldn't be ideal.
25:35It's kind of nice that it's done, but not very nicely done.
25:36Okay.
25:37Yeah.
25:38Needs reconfiguring.
25:39That's about it.
25:40This semi-detached modernized house on the market for just under £70,500 has a lot
25:54of features Fiona is asking for, but will it make the short list?
25:59Bonjour encore.
26:00Bonjour.
26:01Monsieur.
26:02Hello again.
26:03So, I'm curious to know what you think of this one.
26:07Well, we think it is interesting.
26:10The lounge is nice.
26:11The bedroom upstairs is nice, but we're thinking it's needing quite a lot of work with the kitchen.
26:19The bathroom of the kitchen is not very attractive.
26:22I'm a bit surprised because I thought this could really work being where the location is
26:27and the fact you wouldn't have any work to do when you move in.
26:29I can see why you showed us it.
26:31Yes.
26:32It's just a shame they've reconfigured it in the way and it needs heating.
26:35It is beautiful here.
26:36Yeah.
26:37This spot is lovely.
26:38Yes.
26:39So, with all that in mind, would this property be something you would consider?
26:42I don't think so for me.
26:43No.
26:44Okay.
26:45A holiday home, but I don't think as a permanent residence.
26:48Okay.
26:49Okay.
26:50All right.
26:51I'm disappointed, but listen, I've got to take on board what you're saying.
26:53This is well on the way to what we want.
26:55Okay.
26:56So, there's a property that I'm thinking would be really worth showing you because it gives
26:59you peace and quiet, but actually you've got amenities in a town that I think you're going
27:05to really like.
27:06Okay.
27:07That sounds good.
27:08All right.
27:09Let's do it this way.
27:10Time to try something a bit different.
27:12We're heading 45 minutes north of here to Le Dora, a gorgeous town on the hillside.
27:18I'm hoping I may be able to sweeten up this house hunt.
27:22So, ladies, how are you feeling?
27:23We're feeling glorious in this sunshine.
27:26Oh, yeah.
27:27Now, what do you think of this particular part of the region we've been to so far?
27:32This is the town of Le Dora.
27:33It's looking very lovely at the moment.
27:35And the view is amazing from here.
27:37Well, obviously, we're excited to go and see what you've got in store for us.
27:41Yeah.
27:42And what you've got behind your back.
27:43And what you're hiding from us.
27:44Yes.
27:45All right.
27:46Well, listen, another speciality of Le Dora are its macarons.
27:52Oh, c'est très bon, monsieur.
27:54Very nice.
27:55Now, these are slightly different to, for example, the Parisian macarons because they're made
27:58with egg white, almonds and icing sugar.
28:01And can you see, they've got a slightly rougher texture and a bit more chunky than Parisian
28:06macarons, which are very sort of smooth and silky.
28:09Very good.
28:10Lovely.
28:11Do try one.
28:12I mean, let me know what you think.
28:13Yeah.
28:14I mean, we should really have a nice French coffee with this, shouldn't we?
28:18Yeah.
28:19Mmm.
28:20So, we've got a whole box full here.
28:22Excellent.
28:23I'll take those.
28:25Let's have a nibble of our macarons.
28:27And let's go and see the fourth property, see what you think of it.
28:30OK.
28:31That's great.
28:32And as it's just a ten-minute walk from here, we'd better nibble fast.
28:36Le Dora has one of the highest concentration of expats living here than any other town
28:41in France, with Brits making up around 9% of the local population.
28:45Fiona and Tina are clearly impressed with the location, so as I try to balance priorities
28:51with the budget, I thought I'd try something a bit different and find out just how important
28:55size is to them.
28:57Right, ladies.
28:58Just before I tell you about the property, you might notice up there you've got the British
29:03hairdressers.
29:04Mm-hmm.
29:05And as you turn left there, that will take you right into them in High Street.
29:08You can walk to everything.
29:09Yeah.
29:10Absolutely.
29:11And you've still got peace and quiet.
29:12It's a really good location.
29:13Well, for the fourth property, it's a townhouse that you see in front of you here.
29:18This is the biggest property I've showed you so far.
29:21Mm-hmm.
29:22Four bedrooms.
29:23You've got a family bathroom, then a separate loo.
29:25And a really nice garden, which gives you lots of peace and quiet as well.
29:29How are you feeling seeing it from the outside?
29:32Slightly underwhelmed at the moment.
29:34Right.
29:35It's a bit plastic and modern.
29:37Sacking curb appeal, but let's see what it's like inside.
29:40Yeah.
29:41Okay.
29:42It's priced at just under £78,500.
29:44Okay.
29:45Okay.
29:46So I know I've gone into the wiggle room.
29:47Yep.
29:48But the owners are open to...
29:50Negotiation.
29:51Negotiation too.
29:52Perfect.
29:53So this one I'm going to send you in by yourself.
29:54Lovely.
29:55Take as much time as you want.
29:56Come and find me when you're done.
29:58You're going in now.
29:59See you in a bit.
30:00See you in a bit.
30:01There's a good size peaceful garden at the back.
30:04And a handy garage at the front.
30:07Inside is a huge open plan living area with a modern kitchen and plenty of space for lounge
30:13furniture around the wood burner.
30:15The main bedroom is a great size with a bathroom installed that could easily become an ensuite.
30:20And the same is true of the second bedroom, which has a shower.
30:24The third bedroom has a more conventional layout and is also a good size double.
30:29Along with the fourth bedroom on the top floor, there's also the main bathroom.
30:34Oh, so this is the kitchen.
30:37This is very modern and it's modern outside.
30:40I can see that it's a really big house for someone that wants a modern place.
30:45It's great.
30:46But that's just not my French dream.
30:48It's very underwhelming, isn't it?
30:50Interesting.
30:51Yeah.
30:52There's a bath in this room.
30:53It could be a nice room.
30:55But it hasn't got any original floors.
30:57It hasn't got any original ceilings.
30:59It hasn't got anything original at all that we could work with and revamp.
31:03This is a nice outside space.
31:09It's a shame.
31:10I'm sure it would be a lovely home for someone else, but not us.
31:14I know this is a bit of a different option, but this townhouse in Ludora, on the market
31:20for just under £78,500, is in a perfect location.
31:24I'm interested to find out what they think of it.
31:27Hello again.
31:28Hello.
31:29Hi.
31:30When you saw the outside of our fourth property you weren't particularly impressed.
31:35I'm really hoping that changed when you got inside.
31:38It wasn't as attractive as you.
31:41So I'm afraid it's very modern inside and I really wanted something with a bit of character.
31:47I'm guessing this isn't a contender from what you're saying.
31:49No.
31:50Right.
31:51Sadly not.
31:52We've now looked at four properties.
31:54Now we did have a potential contender with the first property in Bellac.
31:58Yep.
31:59We're still thinking about that.
32:00Okay.
32:01But there's a lot of work that needs done and it's really whether the finances would work
32:05with that.
32:06Right.
32:07So they're moving forward by the sounds of it.
32:08It's got to have character.
32:09It's got to have the correct configuration and it's still got to have that peace and quiet.
32:13We are a challenge.
32:14I'm not going to deny it.
32:16No listen and of course I appreciate that.
32:20This is a big move.
32:21It's got to be right.
32:22It's a lifetime move for me.
32:23Of course it is.
32:24Alright well look I've got one more chance to really try and find you something you love.
32:27Let me put my thinking cap on.
32:29Okay.
32:30And I've got one more chance to impress you.
32:31Yes.
32:32Alright let's head off.
32:33Lovely.
32:34Coming up will I crack it with my final property.
32:41Great.
32:42Love it.
32:43Yes.
32:44Much better.
32:45You've redeemed yourself.
32:46Yeah.
32:47Yeah I think I have haven't I.
32:52Today I'm house hunting around Limousin in Western France with Fiona and her best friend
32:58Tina helping Fiona find her dream home.
33:01But so far getting the location, the layout of the house, the character and the garden
33:06all spot on has proved pretty elusive for Fiona's maximum £80,000 budget.
33:11I do have one contender in the running, this renovation project but they were concerned about
33:17the amount of work it needed.
33:19I think what I've lined up next though could strike the perfect balance.
33:24But before that I'm heading off to visit a rather spectacular manor house and estate.
33:30On the market for nearly one and a half million pounds, this 25 bedroom home dates back to
33:35the 1600s and has been restored to its former glory and splendor by the owners who've lived
33:41here for 25 years.
33:43There's a huge barn for hosting events and so much to see.
33:47I'm meeting events manager Pierre who's agreed to show me round.
33:51Here is the beautiful original library.
33:56Wow.
33:57It's like stepping back in time.
33:59Exactly.
34:00I love all the furniture here.
34:02And look at this beautiful ceiling.
34:04It's just a feast for the eyes.
34:07Where should we go next?
34:08You will love the build room on the first floor.
34:10Do you want to see?
34:11Let's go take a look.
34:12Oh, look at this.
34:17Oh Pierre, this is beautiful.
34:20And actually now of course I notice the swans.
34:23That's what, the bird's room.
34:24Yeah.
34:25And for me it's the most beautiful bedroom.
34:28Yes.
34:29Because the current owner likes to add some antique pieces of decorations.
34:36Yes.
34:37Like this Marie Antoinette chandelier.
34:39The way the light dances around it, it's beautiful isn't it?
34:43Yeah.
34:44That table, is that an original as well?
34:45Yes it is.
34:46Original from Louis XVI's period, yes?
34:49Gosh.
34:50Now I love it in here but I do keep seeing views of the garden outside.
34:55Yes.
34:56You can go if you want.
34:57Yes.
34:58Okay, go.
35:01Oh Pierre, I mean like the rest of the house.
35:04This is beautiful, it's so calm here isn't it?
35:06Yes, because of the river just here.
35:09And in this outside theatre we have some events.
35:12I mean you can imagine it's the perfect setting for a wedding isn't it?
35:16Yes.
35:17And I notice as we're walking through there are other buildings around here as well.
35:21Yes, we have the mill.
35:22Yes.
35:23And after you have two houses.
35:25Oh, so as well as having the wedding they can stay here as well.
35:28Yeah exactly, for the night.
35:29Well I'm very lucky that I have some time here.
35:32Thank you for showing me around.
35:33Thank you to come.
35:34And I need to get back to my property search now but thank you for your time Pierre.
35:38Oh, thanks to you.
35:40I've left no stone unturned on this house hunt and I've gone full circle by bringing Fiona and Tina back to Bellac as they really love this location.
35:51And I want to show them a little bit more.
35:54So on the way to the fifth and the final property I brought you back to have a look at this beautiful view.
36:00Beautiful.
36:01And I believe you like cycling, do you? You cycle quite a lot at home.
36:05Yes we do.
36:06So this is a cycle route here which admittedly is quite a steep one with this hill.
36:11Lots of them start and end at Bellac and if you go to the different tourist offices they've got maps of the different routes.
36:18Oh lovely.
36:19And if you wanted to rent an electric bike that works out about £21 to £22 a day.
36:24We like an electric bike ride.
36:25Yeah.
36:26And I think all our friends can then hire one and we can all go out together on adventures around Bellac.
36:31Yes.
36:32Alright ladies well I know we could spend longer taking in this beautiful view but I want to get you to the fifth and final property.
36:37Which is about an eight minute walk or if we're talking bikes about five minutes on the cycle.
36:43Sounds brilliant.
36:44Brilliant.
36:45Let's walk downhill nice and easy.
36:46Yeah.
36:48Bellac is a charming area with cafes and restaurants and even a cinema.
36:53The property is just a short stroll away through quiet lanes so I'm keeping everything crossed.
36:59Right ladies here we are fifth and final property.
37:02I'm hoping we're going to end on a high.
37:04Let's hope so.
37:05Exciting!
37:06So the property I'm going to show you is the house there with the red shutters.
37:11Yes.
37:12Definite improvement on the curb appeal.
37:13Right.
37:14Looking lovely.
37:15Okay.
37:16And just all the properties are really in nice condition.
37:18The town's lovely.
37:19Yeah.
37:20Great location.
37:21Yeah it's fantastic.
37:22We love this place.
37:23So with this one we've got two good sized bedrooms.
37:26You've also got a garden.
37:28But also if you look next to the house you can see the barn.
37:33That's yours as well.
37:34Oh wow.
37:35And it's on the market at just under £66,500.
37:38Wow.
37:39The agent has said there might even be a bit more negotiation with that as well.
37:43Okay.
37:44And like in terms of price and logistics it's really working here.
37:47Yes.
37:48Yes.
37:49And I'm hoping you like the property too.
37:50We hope so too.
37:51We hope so too.
37:52Alright so it's the last one.
37:54Let's get inside.
37:55Okay.
37:56This house has a lovely little garden with stunning views.
38:01Inside is a spacious open plan living area with room to relax with a kitchen at the far
38:07end.
38:08There's a modern shower room on this floor too and a separate toilet.
38:12Upstairs is the main bedroom and it's a great size.
38:15And there's a second double with the bonus of far reaching views over the river and valley.
38:21To the side is the barn and garage which could be converted into more living space.
38:26Well in we come.
38:29How are you feeling now we're inside?
38:31Great.
38:32Love it.
38:33Yes.
38:34Much better.
38:35There's more character here isn't there?
38:36Yep.
38:37Definitely.
38:38Perfect.
38:39It's looking good so far.
38:40In terms of size, kitchen living.
38:41Great.
38:42Yeah.
38:43Fabulous views.
38:44We've got more of that to see.
38:45Look at the church tower.
38:46I know.
38:47I mean it's like beautiful.
38:48You've redeemed yourself.
38:49Yeah.
38:50I think I have haven't I here?
38:51I haven't.
38:52The last hurrah.
38:53I think that might have been the first time I've heard the L word.
38:56Yeah.
38:57I love it.
38:58I do love it.
39:01Oh look at that.
39:02What a view.
39:03This is lovely.
39:04It's gorgeous.
39:05Lovely isn't it?
39:06Gorgeous.
39:07This is actually the smaller of the two bedrooms.
39:10I'm wondering though if we did put a bathroom up here.
39:13I think that bedroom might be more suitable for a little loo and wash basin or something.
39:17But you know.
39:18Yeah.
39:19That's all to be considered.
39:21So size wise this will work for you?
39:24Brilliant.
39:25Perfect.
39:26Everything is really lovely.
39:31So what do you think for this for your garden setting?
39:34Wonderful.
39:35Pretty spectacular.
39:36And look you can have your friends.
39:37You can have a big table up there and you just look out over Balak.
39:41Yeah.
39:42It's glorious.
39:43How do you feel about this size of garden?
39:46Wonderful.
39:47Perfect.
39:48Yeah.
39:49You can sit outside.
39:50Have some chickens.
39:51Enjoy the view.
39:52There's chickens.
39:53I don't know if the chickens are staying or going but.
39:54You can buy some more.
39:57So listen.
39:58Head on in.
39:59Take a look at the rest of it.
40:00And then come and find where you're done.
40:01Alright.
40:02And I can see what you think.
40:03I think you know.
40:05Thank you ladies.
40:06See you in a bit.
40:09Well.
40:10The final property.
40:11And you know.
40:12Let's be honest.
40:13This has not been an easy property search.
40:15But I am so happy.
40:17I'm ending on a high.
40:20Well this is another lovely room.
40:22It's much bigger.
40:23Could possibly fit a bathroom up here.
40:26There's enough space like in that corner.
40:28It's great.
40:30I love it.
40:31Is it really good?
40:32Yes it is.
40:34Oh.
40:35Here we are in the barn.
40:36Wow.
40:37A lot of potential to develop this.
40:39Maybe put your kitchen here.
40:40Yes.
40:41Open up these.
40:42In the future obviously.
40:43Yeah.
40:44Let's go and see Crave.
40:45Yeah.
40:46Let's.
40:47Good news.
40:48Good news this time.
40:49Yeah.
40:50Yeah.
40:51I'm feeling good about this Bellac townhouse.
40:52On the market.
40:53For just under £66,500.
40:55It surely has the right balance of ingredients.
40:58For Fiona and Tina.
41:00Oh.
41:01A lovely big smile.
41:02Much up here ladies.
41:03Yeah you are aren't you.
41:05What do you think of the rest of it?
41:06Love it.
41:07We really like it.
41:08Yeah.
41:09It's got the right amount of character.
41:10It's got the right amount of work to do.
41:12Yeah.
41:13The area.
41:14The view.
41:15The property.
41:16Everything is lovely.
41:17Yeah.
41:18It's just perfect.
41:19Well.
41:20I think I know the answer to this question.
41:22Our final property.
41:23Is it a contender?
41:24It is the only contender.
41:26The only really yes.
41:27The river house in Bellac.
41:28Is that off the table now?
41:30Completely off the table.
41:31I think we'd like to spend the rest of the afternoon.
41:33Going around Bellac.
41:34Looking at the cafes.
41:35The restaurants.
41:36I can arrange that for you.
41:37No problem.
41:38Yeah.
41:39Okay.
41:40Great.
41:41So in that case then why don't we head off.
41:42Take the evening to think things over.
41:44And you know have another mooch around.
41:46And we'll meet up tomorrow.
41:48And I can see what you'd like to do next.
41:50Perfect.
41:51Yeah.
41:53Great.
41:54Alright.
41:55Let's head off.
41:56Okay.
41:57If you'd like more information about any of the properties featured on today's show.
42:00Go to a place in the sun dot com forward slash programs.
42:05It's been a tricky search trying to find everything Fiona wants for her maximum 80,000 pound budget.
42:11But she absolutely fell for my final property.
42:14This Bellac townhouse and it's the only one in the running.
42:18So what's she going to do?
42:21Fiona, Tina, good morning.
42:23Morning.
42:24You're both very happy in France aren't you?
42:26Yep.
42:27We love France.
42:28It's been lovely exploring the area, seeing the towns.
42:31But we loved Bellac the most I think.
42:33Yes.
42:34Yeah.
42:35It's very green, very beautiful here.
42:36You know everywhere is beautiful.
42:37Yeah.
42:38That's why I want to come and live here.
42:40Yeah.
42:41So how has the property search been for you?
42:44There's been a lot of laughter.
42:46There's also been a lot of tears.
42:48Yeah, we have had our ups and downs haven't we on this one?
42:51We have.
42:52You were saved by the last house.
42:54Now from the minute we got there, you loved it didn't you?
42:57Yeah, it just had a lovely, calm, peaceful feeling.
43:00Yes.
43:01And that continued as we went through didn't it?
43:04Well, yeah.
43:05Once you opened that front door and just looked straight through at the whole of Bellac it was gorgeous.
43:12It also had the barn.
43:14Yeah, that added interest of expanding the house.
43:18We started to get excited about how we could reconfigure it over time.
43:23Yes.
43:24So are you moving forward with that one?
43:26Not today.
43:27Right.
43:28But we're staying the weekend in Bellac.
43:30We've extended our trip.
43:31Okay.
43:32Because we only thought yesterday and we really just want to, yeah, just have a little bit more time to think about it.
43:40So it's just a little bit more breathing space you need?
43:42Yes.
43:43Yeah, it's a big decision.
43:44Of course it is.
43:45The agent details and pass them on to you so you can stay in touch and promise me the second anything happens you are on that phone to me.
43:53We will do.
43:55We'd just like to say thank you.
43:57Thank you for our adventure.
43:58Thank you for making us laugh and thank you for making us cry and then laugh again.
44:03For the moment, all the best for the future and your new life in France.
44:06Cheers.
44:07Cheers.
44:08Vive la France.
44:09Vive la France.
44:10Well, it's certainly been a roller coaster of a property search with Fiona and Tina.
44:19And whilst I am disappointed we're not sealing the deal today, I'm really happy I found them a property they love and are seriously considering.
44:27This is a whole new chapter for Fiona, so I wish her and Tina all the best for their new life in this beautiful part of France.
44:36Fiona's decided that while she likes the house, she wants to explore the area more.
44:41She's been focusing on the towns of Bellac and Lodora.
44:45We hope she soon finds her perfect property.
44:48If you'd like help with your property search and want to be on A Place in the Sun, then go to channel4.com forward slash take part.
45:13Bye.
45:14Bye.
45:15Bye.
45:16Bye.
45:17Bye.
45:18Bye.
45:19Bye.
45:20Bye.
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