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00:00Today I'm house hunting around the beautiful villages and countryside of
00:07Haute-Vienne in South West France. I'm Craig Rowe and over the last 20 years
00:11I've bought, designed and renovated numerous properties. Today I'll be using
00:17my skills to help my house hunters both called George who were looking for a
00:21rural retreat. This is some garden eh? Oh yeah, to get the ride on lawn mower this
00:28is an attractive job. But the road to the perfect place doesn't always run smooth.
00:33Is it too quirky or is it doable do you think? For me it's too tight. Getting in
00:39and out. I can see I might be banging my head or losing some skin somewhere. I get
00:44to visit a 15th century chateau set in stunning grounds. It's just heaven here
00:50isn't it? It's a slice of paradise it really is. But at the end of the day will I
00:54find George and George's perfect place in the sun. The house isn't exactly what I
01:00want but it offers so much and I think I would enjoy it.
01:05Mmm. After finding love on an online dating site three years ago George and
01:13George are focusing on spending as much quality time together as possible. Which
01:18is why they've set their hearts on buying their very own bulk toilet in France. Which
01:22could one day become their forever home. George Simpson and George Bailey Haig are
01:28both retired and live together in Wales after finding it wasn't only their names
01:32that they had in common. First time we met we sat on a bench for hours and hours and
01:37hours and hours. Yeah, we didn't move from the bench. Once we started talking you know
01:43he's just got such a fantastic soft personality and you know it's really
01:47endearing and loving for it. Yeah I really do. After doing up their house here they've
01:52now decided it's time to make George Simpson's 30 year dream a reality. To buy a
01:57bolt hole in France they have a budget of £65,000 to find it.
02:05Around an hour and a half flight from the UK into Limoges takes you to Haute-Vienne in central
02:11France. Named after the river Vienne runs through it this area is famed for its gorgeous land
02:17landscape, rolling countryside, forests and over 3,000 lakes. With picturesque villages
02:24and towns such as Chateau Ponsac and Bellac scattered in between it really is the perfect
02:30place for a tranquil retreat. Haute-Vienne has some of the most affordable property in France.
02:36Two bedroom houses start at around £40,000. And with demand slowing in the last year, sellers
02:43are now accepting lower offers of up to 10%. So if George and George are after a bargain
02:48they're in the right place. Before we start the search I'm meeting them to find out exactly
02:53what they're looking for. Well George and George welcome to Haute-Vienne here in France.
03:01Yeah wonderful to be here. And the sun is shining for us. Yeah lovely. Now I have to ask you George
03:08and George how do I refer to you when I'm speaking to you individually? Okay well I'm George S. Right.
03:14And I'll be George B. Cool that's really helpful. George S, George B. Correct. George S you've been to
03:22this part of France before haven't you? Yes. A long time ago. 1990. Ah. So in terms of Haute-Vienne
03:29are there certain areas that you want to be in or are you quite open to looking at different places?
03:35It's all new to me so I'm looking forward to seeing it all if I can. Are there any hobbies that you'd like
03:41to do when you're here in France? Well we're both really keen amateur gardeners so we don't mind having a plot to tang.
03:49We love walking it's nice. Good you're gonna be fit as fiddles a pair of you. I like antiques and restoring them so if there's some
03:56bargains to be had I'm putting our property that you find. Yeah. Chubby chic and we'll make it a little bit chic-er.
04:03What are the kind of wishes for the property you'd like me to find for you? Give me an idea so I can start building a picture.
04:09Two bedrooms or more. Yeah. Old and quirky. Old and quirky. Yeah. I'm guessing in that case then traditional would work for you. Yeah beams and wood yeah lovely.
04:18Okay. And in terms of the outdoor space what would you want from that? As much as possible. Right okay. Greedy if it has that adjoining barn or you can encroach into that and make something fantastic out of that.
04:32So by the sense of it you'd like an area that possibly you could use as a bit of a workshop? Oh definitely for me. Right yeah. Definitely. I worked, I was a mechanic for over 20 years so I would like tinkering about me cars.
04:40What about in terms of the location itself? I mean do you want to be very remote or would you like to be close to a town?
04:4715-20 minute drive. Great so 15-20 minutes to a town. Yeah. Great so ideally then the budget is £65,000. Is that right? Yeah. Maybe a little bit more.
04:58A bit of wiggle room. Okay. Okay.
05:0175.
05:03You can wiggle up to £75,000 if it's ready to move into. Is that right? Yeah.
05:08So how are you feeling about getting started? Yes. Very excited. Yeah? Yeah.
05:13Let's get the show on the road this way. Yeah let's go.
05:16I can't wait to kick off this search. But as George B has never been to this area before, I want to show him what this part of France has to offer.
05:25So first we're heading to Chateau Ponsac, a beautiful medieval village and there's a rather stunning spot I want to take them to.
05:33What do you think of this? Yeah. Amazing. Yeah. Pleasant surprise this is. Yeah. Yeah.
05:38As this is the first area I've brought you to, especially you George B because it's your first time here, how are you feeling about the first parts of this part of France that you've seen?
05:47Well it's pretty much surprised me quite honestly. I didn't expect to be seeing views like this, these sort of landscapes and you know it's so so picturesque.
05:55The first property we're going to see is just a 10 minute drive from here. Should we go see the first one? Yeah let's go. Let's go.
06:02We're heading to a small hamlet called Lagare. It's such a great location, close to Chateau Ponsac for day to day needs as well as just being half an hour from Limoges too.
06:15So properties tend to sell quite quickly in this area. I can't wait to find out what they think.
06:20Right then. So here we are at the first property. The house with the real sort of charm I would say from the outside.
06:30Yeah. What are your first impressions of what you see? Yes I like the vine. Yeah. It's good.
06:35Yeah. It's got attractive points about it. It definitely has. Yeah. Definitely has. It's full of character isn't it? Yeah. Yeah.
06:41Let me tell you a bit more about it. You've got two bedrooms here. A very quirky bathroom. Okay. Quirky. You did say quirky.
06:50Quirky. You did give me permission to do quirky. So we've got a quirky bathroom. Yeah.
06:55And then outside you've got a beautiful really large garden. Right. Giving you about half an acre of land. Hmm. Yeah.
07:05It's been on the market for just over four weeks. And it's been sold for just over £64,000. Right. Hmm. So let's get in and see what you think. Okay.
07:18The garden here is really pretty with patio areas, established trees and plenty of land for these keen gardeners to make their mark.
07:28Inside is an open plan kitchen lounge diner with a separate utility or perhaps more of a kitchen area.
07:35The main bedroom is light and bright. And the second is also a double. And whilst getting into the bathroom might be a bit of a squeeze and it needs some work, there's a fair amount of space to play with.
07:49Right. In we come. So, George B, what's your first impression? What are you thinking?
07:55This size room. Yeah. Is good. Okay. That's what I like. Yeah. This is a good size room. Yeah. What are you thinking, George? Yeah. I'm liking it. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah.
08:04I've had something very similar before and I feel really at home with these beams. Keep them natural. Yeah. That's what I like. Yeah. Okay.
08:13Right. So, on the way to the bathroom, I thought we'd have a look at the bigger of the two bedrooms. Yeah. Yeah, it's good.
08:24I think it's so important to be able to walk around the bed as well. I don't like a bed when it's up against the wall in the corner.
08:29Yes. All right. Well, listen, the bathroom, let's go and take a look at that, because I think that's going to be important for you to decide what you think.
08:35So, head on out, Georges, and we'll follow you. Thank you.
08:38Right. Please watch your heads as you come down into the bathroom, especially you, Georges, being a bit taller.
08:50Come on in. Okay.
08:52Hey, that was quite good. He's quite nifty, isn't he? Yeah, yeah, yeah.
08:55Now, I said quirky. It's quirky. Yeah.
08:58Is it too quirky or is it doable, do you think?
09:01For me, it's too tight. Is it?
09:04Getting in and out. I can see I might be banging my head or losing some skin somewhere.
09:09Well, I mean, I guess it depends really on what you think of the rest. Have a good look around and then I'll come and find you and see what you think a bit later on.
09:18Okay. All right, so head on out. Watch your head as you leave, especially you, Georges.
09:25So, I think it's going okay. I think they definitely have some concerns about this bathroom, but I'm just hoping the size of the garden will absolutely wow them.
09:40Yeah, I like it. I didn't think it was going to be as much space.
09:43No, I wouldn't have expected to see this much space here. Yeah, very surprising.
09:48I can see. I mean, it goes a little bit further down there as well.
09:51It's a big garden with a lot of potential.
09:54George and Joyce definitely like aspects of this cottage on the market for just over £64,000, but will that be enough?
10:02So, how are we feeling about our first property? Do you think this could be in the running?
10:07I'm not sure if it's in the running yet. I'd still have to go away and digest it a bit more.
10:12Okay. Hold judgement till I've seen what else is on offer.
10:15All right, fair enough.
10:16Because it's got a lot of potential and a lot of ground.
10:19And a lot of ground. So, by the sides of it then, we haven't got a clear contender, but we've got something which is being considered.
10:25Yes. Would that be a fair estimation?
10:27Yeah.
10:28What could I keep from this, but build on for the next one, do you think?
10:32Bigger size rooms.
10:33Okay.
10:34Bigger house generally.
10:35Mm-hmm.
10:36Or something I could make bigger.
10:38Two receptions downstairs.
10:40Yeah.
10:41Wood or kitchen diner.
10:43Yeah.
10:44Sort of size.
10:45With a lounge or something.
10:47The space outside is just about right, I'd say.
10:51Yeah, it's nice.
10:52Tastes nice.
10:53Definitely.
10:54A lot of work, but that's all right, being afraid of that.
10:55Okay, so with all that in mind, let's go off and see the second property and see what you think of that.
11:00All right.
11:01Come on, let's go.
11:04I'm taking them 20 miles west of here to Bellac, a picture-perfect market town with a beautiful river running through it that I think George & George will love.
11:14But before we see the next property, we're going to stop off to check out the main attraction.
11:19So, George & George, here we are now at a different vista this time, right next to the Pont de la Pierre, the stone bridge.
11:29The bridge itself dates back to the 13th century.
11:32But even though you've got history here, looking around, you actually will also find all your amenities here, your pharmacy, your shops, your silver bars and things.
11:41So is this the sort of place you can imagine using and spending time in?
11:46Oh, yeah, definitely.
11:47Yeah.
11:48This is a really attractive area, isn't it?
11:50It really is, yeah.
11:51Yeah.
11:52Calm.
11:53Yes.
11:54Quiet.
11:55Yes.
11:56Yeah, you can be just leisurely here all together, can't you?
11:57Yeah.
11:58Just stroll out and enjoy it.
11:59Yeah.
12:00That's nice.
12:01Well, I'm very happy that you like this area because the next property is just under a 10-minute drive from here.
12:06Or if you fancy getting your walking boots on, you could walk it in about an hour, but it's quite a pleasant walk as well.
12:10Yeah, yeah.
12:11So let's head off and see what you think of the next one.
12:14This way.
12:15Yeah.
12:16Great.
12:17Coming up, I can't wait to see what George and George think of my next property.
12:22This pretty village house that might have a trick or two up its sleeve.
12:27Today, I'm in France with George and George, helping find the perfect home for them to escape to for relaxing holidays in the glorious countryside of Aux Viennes.
12:42Now, so far, they like the character and outdoor space of my first property, but I think the bathroom was a little bit too quirky.
12:50They've got a maximum budget of £75,000 and can't wait to spend time doing up the house themselves, in the hope of one day permanently moving here.
13:00They've kept my first property in the running, but they really want more space and a more conventional bathroom.
13:09So I've brought them 20 miles west of my first property to a small village called Susac.
13:15Further from Limoges, property prices are around 10% cheaper, so I can get them much more living space.
13:21I'm interested to see what they make of the house I've lined up next.
13:25So, George and George, for the second property, I've brought you to a little village called Susac.
13:31This is the Impasse de la Forge, because this used to be an old forge.
13:36So, an industrial building that's been converted.
13:39What are your first impressions of the entrance to the property?
13:42Very nice, yeah, yeah, quaint.
13:44George, yes, you're taking it all in.
13:46What is behind the brown door?
13:48You've got a lovely big garden, which I think has got lots of potential too.
13:53Okay.
13:54And it's been sold for just under £59,000.
13:57So how are you feeling about getting inside?
13:59Yeah, yeah, quaint.
14:00We need to see what's behind the doors.
14:02Why don't we go in and find out?
14:04Yeah, let's have a look.
14:05Follow me.
14:06It's all sounding good so far.
14:08Both Georges have very green fingers, so I really hope they'll love the large garden here,
14:13and there is a patio area too.
14:16All on one floor to the front of the property is a good-sized lounge, as requested,
14:22and one of the two bedrooms.
14:24Overlooking the garden at the back is a separate kitchen diner, which is a great space,
14:29and the main bedroom, which is light and bright.
14:32There's some handy storage space and a shower room,
14:36and upstairs is a huge attic that could be converted into another bedroom.
14:43Right, into the living room.
14:45I thought this was a good place to start because you wanted a separate living room and kitchen.
14:49Yeah.
14:50Yeah.
14:51Yeah, it's a good-sized room.
14:52It's a good space, isn't it?
14:53You can do a lot with this space.
14:54And, Georges, would you say, is this to your taste?
14:57Do you like it?
14:58Yeah, definitely.
14:59Yeah, it's nice and bright.
15:00I like panelling along the wall as well.
15:02Good.
15:03So, a separate kitchen.
15:06This is begging for reconfiguring, I would say.
15:10I always like a sink where you're looking out of the garden myself,
15:13so I think I would, if it's possible, move that around.
15:15Well, and again, that would be fairly easy because the plumbing's in that corner anyway, isn't it?
15:18Yeah.
15:19So that wouldn't be too bad.
15:20Yeah, that would work.
15:21Before you explore the rest of this, I'll show you the garden peeking through there.
15:24Let's go and take a look.
15:25Okay.
15:28Now, as you both do love your gardening, what are you thinking, seeing out here?
15:32Well, it's a blank canvas, definitely.
15:34Yeah.
15:35Initially, straight away for me is more treeses.
15:39I like a garden with some trees in it.
15:41Right.
15:42If the road noise could be turned down a little bit, that would help.
15:45Would that be a deal breaker, the sound of the road,
15:47or is that something you might live with if you like the rest of it?
15:50I'd prefer not to have it myself.
15:51Okay.
15:52I'm not sure if even screening with trees would take that away,
15:54but it's the knowledge that it's there all the time.
15:57I see.
15:58Listen, go and have a look at the house and I'll find you and see what you thought.
16:01Great.
16:02Thank you very much.
16:03See you in a bit.
16:04Right out.
16:05Well, I would say mixed reactions here.
16:07I think I'm learning more about what their French dream is.
16:10I'm not sure they're convinced on the garden,
16:11and I wonder also if that road is putting them off as well.
16:14This is not the bedroom.
16:19No.
16:20The bedroom should be in the front, and this should be the lounge.
16:22I agree.
16:23Yep.
16:24And those are French windows there.
16:25Yeah.
16:26You want to be in here, lounge, looking out onto your garden, don't you?
16:29Yeah.
16:30That's what I want.
16:31Yeah.
16:32Front to back, it's got to be turned.
16:33Yeah.
16:34Well, that's a surprise, isn't it?
16:40Yeah.
16:41Well, it's a useful space.
16:42It is a good space, yeah.
16:43Well, it's a space for one bed, ensuite, maybe.
16:47I think they liked elements of this old forge house on the market for just under £59,000,
16:52but does that mean it will be a contender?
16:56Hi Craig.
16:57Hello.
16:58Craig.
16:59Hi.
17:00So that was a good old explore.
17:01Yes.
17:02Very much.
17:03So what do you think of the rest of the property?
17:06It's got a lot more space.
17:07Yeah.
17:08The arrangement of the space is not ideal for me.
17:10The bedroom should be at the front of the house because you're not going to be in the bedroom all day long.
17:14So you want the lounge at the back to see the garden.
17:17Right.
17:18And then looking out that way, I still feel I still haven't got that vista that I'm hoping for.
17:25Is this a property that you would consider?
17:27So I'm not saying definite no, but right this minute, I'd like to see something else as well.
17:33Okay.
17:34Yeah.
17:35So we've got another contender with further consideration.
17:37Yes, I'm afraid so.
17:38Yeah.
17:39We used to be in decisive, now we can't make our minds up.
17:43All right.
17:44So what does that then mean for the first property that we saw, which was the cottage with the large garden?
17:49It's not for me.
17:50Right.
17:51It's not for me.
17:52There's not enough space in the property.
17:54It's the full commitment because you'd have to extend it.
17:57Right.
17:58So by the sounds of the end, that's out of the mix completely.
18:00I think so.
18:01So essentially, I hear what you're saying about having that perspective and looking out onto the garden.
18:06And that would be a possibility with the next property that I'm thinking of showing you, but you would need to reconfigure things.
18:11Okay.
18:12So if I know you're happy to think about changing the layout of things, then I think it could really work for you.
18:18Okay.
18:19Yeah.
18:20Yeah.
18:21Let's go and see it.
18:22All right.
18:23Let's go and see it.
18:24Let's go and see it.
18:25I feel we are getting closer.
18:27Before I show them anything else though, I want to introduce them to Tony, who moved here from the UK and is a bit of an expert on the area.
18:35Hello, Tony.
18:36Hi.
18:37Hi.
18:38Nice to see you.
18:39And I wanted you to meet George and George.
18:41Hi.
18:42Hello.
18:43Because they're thinking of buying a property here in this part of France, either a holiday home or maybe something that could work for them long term as well.
18:49And I wanted you both to meet Tony because not only does she have a beautiful restaurant here called Le Tambor Casse, The Broken Drum, but also I think you've been here, haven't you, for about eight years, Tony?
18:58Yeah, it's eight years.
18:59We moved out in 2015.
19:00This particular area here is quite new to us. What would you recommend to us to sort of encourage us to purchase something local?
19:07The mayors here are amazing. The secretaries, they really will help you out.
19:11If you've got any problems with paperwork, you go see the mayor or the secretaries and they'll help point you in the right direction.
19:16It's a very rural area.
19:17Yeah.
19:18How do you get on for tradespeople?
19:19A lot of things are still on posters and flyers in the boulangeries, in the shops.
19:24They do have some that are online, but you'll tend to find that there's still a lot in what they call the pages and the yellow pages.
19:30Yeah.
19:31Well, thank you very much. That's been really useful.
19:33George and George, we need to get off to our next property.
19:36Absolutely.
19:37Tony, thank you for your time. Much appreciated.
19:38No problem.
19:39Thanks very much. Thank you.
19:40Good luck.
19:42Thank you, Tony. Bye-bye.
19:43Right. Come on, guys.
19:44Coming up, what will George and George make of my next property?
19:49This fantastic stone farmhouse with bags of character, loads of potential and oodles of outdoor space.
20:02Today, I'm in glorious Haute-Vienne in southwest France with George and George searching for their dream holiday home.
20:09They have a maximum budget of £75,000 and are after a house filled with character with a large garden which they can admire from inside as well as out.
20:19And they are very keen to do up the place themselves too.
20:23While they liked my second property and it is in the running, the fact it's a maybe means I know I can do better.
20:30So, in order to bag my first proper contender, we're heading to the outskirts of a village called Mayak-sur-Venez.
20:37Around 30% of the population here are expats who have already cottoned on to the fact that this spot is an impressive rural retreat.
20:45I've lined up a fabulous semi-detached property currently divided into two homes with a lot of potential.
20:51I just hope George and George agree.
20:53Right, here we are now at the third property.
20:56You're about 45 minutes from Limoges Airport here to give you an idea of bearings.
21:02The house I'm going to show you is this beautiful stone farmhouse you see in front of you here.
21:08What you're getting here is something very magical because it's being sold as a two bedroom, one bathroom property.
21:17But the potential is so much more because apart from the building at the end there, which is owned by the mayor, the rest of what you're seeing is yours.
21:29And surrounding the property, you've got just under two acres of land.
21:36It's being sold for just under £64,000.
21:41There's lots of space for conversion and renovation.
21:44Right.
21:45Let's get inside and see what you think.
21:47He's chomping at the bit, isn't he?
21:48He is.
21:50Yay!
21:51Right, come on, let's get in.
21:52The grounds here are truly spectacular and certainly big enough for George and George to turn into their dream garden.
22:01And the semi-detached houses have potential to become one fabulous home.
22:06The first has a traditional kitchen diner and a double bedroom with steps in the corner leading to a huge attic which could be converted into more bedrooms.
22:18The second house has another kitchen diner complete with a lovely fireplace and another bedroom, a utility room and a bathroom.
22:28There's also two potential workshops or storage rooms for handyman George S.
22:34Right, so inside, two, the room which is being used as a kitchen diner, but the good thing is about this property is you'll see as you explore more.
22:43You can use these rooms any way you want to.
22:47Right.
22:48And there's just so much potential.
22:50Yeah, well, I mean, the space is a really good space, you know.
22:55To see it initially, I wouldn't actually change anything. I want to make it bigger.
22:59Well, listen, I mean, obviously you're going to explore more later on, but for the moment I want to take you into the neighbouring.
23:03What would have been the neighbouring property to show you a bit more of what you get with this as well.
23:06So head on out with George S and we'll go next door.
23:13Right. So a hop, skip and a jump into what would have been the neighbouring property, but of course now is all yours.
23:20It's got the character that I love. I mean, it's not being touched, not being painted white, kept it as it should be.
23:27Yeah, it hasn't got the big fireplace on the wall, so of course this room is a lot bigger.
23:32Yeah.
23:33So on the way through to the garden, another room, which is currently being used as a bedroom.
23:41What are you thinking, George S?
23:43Ah, yeah, I'm thinking I like it.
23:45Oh.
23:46I always see you looking up to the beams.
23:49Yes, definitely. And it's a nice high ceiling. You don't feel like you're...
23:53Yeah.
23:54Because sometimes a beam to property, the ceilings are so low, you're worried about hitting your head all the time.
23:58Yeah, true. It feels really nice and spacious here, doesn't it?
24:00Yeah, it really does, yeah.
24:02So, this is some garden, eh?
24:05Mmm. Oh, yeah.
24:06Yeah, this is...
24:07Get the ride on lawn, man. This is a tractor job.
24:10Yeah, certainly more than a garden, isn't it?
24:13Yeah, this is what I like to see now.
24:15Yeah.
24:16Well, listen, you've still got a lot to explore.
24:18Sure.
24:19So have a good wander around. Come and find me when you're done, and I can see where your heads are at.
24:23Okay.
24:24All right, head on in, George and George.
24:25Thank you, thanks.
24:26See you in a bit.
24:27Righto.
24:30Off they go for a good wander.
24:31Well, I think for the first time on this search, I've got George with a smile.
24:35I've got George with a smile.
24:37And as an honorary George, I'm going to have a smile.
24:42It's a nice room.
24:43Yeah, size is okay, isn't it?
24:44Yeah, certainly big enough.
24:45Yeah.
24:46That's bright, isn't it?
24:47A little look in the corner.
24:48See those?
24:49I bet that goes up to the attic or something.
24:51I hope so.
24:52Yeah.
24:57Well, this needs some work.
24:59I like the headroom.
25:02You could do a lot with it.
25:03It is ripe for conversion.
25:08Another space.
25:09I think this should stay as a workshop.
25:12No, this is a very useful space.
25:14This farmhouse has received the most positive reaction so far.
25:18On the market for just under £64,000.
25:21Have I finally got my first proper contender.
25:27Aha.
25:28The wanderer's return.
25:29I think it's a contender.
25:33Yes.
25:34Yes.
25:35Yes.
25:36At last.
25:37Good.
25:38I could show you somewhere smaller, ready to go closer to a village in the munities.
25:42Or I could show you somewhere with a bit more space.
25:44I'd always go to a similar property.
25:47Mmm.
25:48To this.
25:49Yeah.
25:50In that case, answer the question.
25:51I know which one I can show you next.
25:52Go on.
25:53Let's go.
25:54I can't explain how relieved I am to have a real contender in the bag.
26:00So, before we see the next property, I think we can afford to have a cheeky breather
26:05in the form of some retail therapy.
26:07A la Francaise.
26:08So, George and George, I brought you here to a local blockhant.
26:12What we would commonly refer to as a flea market.
26:15It could also be considered sort of an antiques market as well.
26:18This one I thought was particularly interesting because everything is donated.
26:23All the profits that are made from it are then put back into running the centre.
26:27That's nice.
26:28Looking around here.
26:29Mm-hmm.
26:30Anything you've got your eye on for the potential property here?
26:32Do you know what?
26:33Straight away.
26:34Yeah.
26:35We were looking for a French dresser for our previous property for ages and ages.
26:38Got it now, but now knowing where they are here.
26:41Yeah.
26:42This is where we're going to come, isn't it?
26:43Perfect.
26:44Yeah.
26:45Well, I'm glad you like this.
26:46You can see it as a real local resource.
26:47The next property is just over a ten minutes drive from here.
26:50Mm-hmm.
26:51So I'm going to drag you away from here at the moment if I may.
26:54And we're going to see the next ones.
26:55Come on, let's go.
26:58My next property is in a tiny village called Juwak, with a population of just 200 people.
27:04I'm pushing the budget to get them everything on their wish list, but this time it's a totally
27:09different prospect as there won't be any renovation work to do at all.
27:13I know they really want to do whatever they buy, though, so I wonder what they'll make
27:17of it.
27:18So, George and George, we're now here at the fourth property that I'd like to show you.
27:24Four bedrooms this time.
27:26Right.
27:27You've got two living spaces, and you've got that barn as well.
27:31Now, this is the first property I'm showing you where I am eating a little bit into your
27:35wiggle room.
27:36Mm-hmm.
27:37It's on the market for just over £72,500.
27:40Mm-hmm.
27:41Mm-hmm.
27:42I think it's worth it for the amount of house you get, and the fact you've got that huge
27:46barn included as well.
27:47Yeah.
27:48I mean, we've got to get in there and just have a look around and see exactly what we're
27:50going to get for the money.
27:51Yeah.
27:52Yeah.
27:53So, for this one, I'm going to suggest you have a look by yourselves.
27:56Take as much time as you like.
27:58Find me when you're done, and I can see what you think.
28:01Okay.
28:02Head on in.
28:03Cute.
28:04See you in a bit.
28:05Enjoy.
28:07So, rather mixed reactions there, but I have a feeling that when they see inside the property
28:12and that extra barn, I might have myself another contender.
28:17This pretty house has a great-sized, well-established garden for George and George to get their
28:22hands on.
28:23And there's a little stream running through it too.
28:26Inside is a large lounge diner, and a second living area, and an eat-in kitchen.
28:32There are a total of four bedrooms here, all of them doubles, and a bathroom.
28:41There's also a basement with even more space, plus a separate barn with lots of
28:47potential too.
28:48Well, yeah, this is very different to the last house.
28:53Yeah?
28:54This is a...
28:55Still got the exposed timbers though, the wood, which is good.
28:57Yeah, yeah.
28:58Not sure I like the finish on them, but...
29:00I agree.
29:01I prefer the dark beams.
29:02So, I'm keen to go and have a look in the barn.
29:03What about you?
29:04I thought you'd want to get in the barn.
29:05Come on, let's go.
29:06Come on, let's go.
29:14Good space.
29:15Yeah, it's good to see this.
29:16You don't always have to use that space to be ducking under, do you?
29:19Because you've got quite a lot just here.
29:21Yeah.
29:22Yeah, a lot of options here.
29:25Right, okay.
29:26I'm so confused.
29:27This has put the spanner in the works.
29:29Nice house.
29:30It's different.
29:31It's really attractive.
29:32It doesn't give me all that character that the other properties have given.
29:38Downstairs, yeah, that's full of it.
29:40Yeah, yeah.
29:41I think this house, with a stream, on the market for just over £72,500, is a good option
29:48for George and George on paper, I wonder if they'll agree.
29:53Hello.
29:54Hi.
29:55Hello.
29:56Hi.
29:57I'm just here by the stream enjoying this beautiful French sunshine.
30:00So, you've seen it all now.
30:02Yes.
30:03What are you thinking?
30:05Well, that word confuse is coming to my mind.
30:09Well, never expected to come and see something like this, for a start, which is pretty much
30:13finished.
30:14Move in, enjoy yourself.
30:16This house isn't exactly what I want, but it offers so much, and I think I would enjoy
30:23it.
30:24Have I got myself another contender here?
30:26Uh, yeah, I think you probably have.
30:29It sort of sounds like it's, yes, it is a contender, but we almost didn't want or think
30:36it would be.
30:37I'd want it to be a contender.
30:39Yeah.
30:40There you go.
30:41Okay.
30:42I do.
30:43I do.
30:44A property that gives you little bits of what you've liked along the journey.
30:47Mm-hmm.
30:48And that might bring it all together.
30:49Mm-hmm.
30:50So, let's go to the last one.
30:51All right.
30:52Let's go.
30:54Coming up, will my final property come up trumps?
30:57Oh, wow.
30:58Yeah.
30:59This is definitely room with a view, isn't it?
31:01I mean, just looking at that every morning, that's what you want, isn't it?
31:04Good.
31:05Today, I'm in France house hunting around the glorious countryside of Haute-Vienne with George
31:17and George.
31:18They're searching for the perfect property to eventually become their permanent home.
31:22Now, so far, I've got two contenders, and I have a feeling they're going to love my final
31:27property.
31:28They can't wait to make George's 30-year dream a reality and buy their own place out
31:33here for their maximum £75,000 budget.
31:36And I have two very different properties in the running.
31:39They fell for this stone farmhouse with all its potential and opportunity to put their
31:44own stamp on it.
31:45But they also surprised themselves with how much they loved this house with a stream which
31:50was all ready to move into.
31:52I'm hoping my final one will give them the best of both worlds.
31:57Before that, though, I'm heading off to visit a 15th-century chateau.
32:02Set in stunning grounds with its very own lake, this seven-bedroom, six-bathroom house
32:07has been thoughtfully restored.
32:09Every room chic and stylish and full of French charm.
32:13I'm meeting Agent Anthony, who's agreed to show me around.
32:17This is the formal dining room, Craig.
32:20The current owners have had the house for 20 years, and during which time they've undertaken
32:26a very sympathetic restoration of the property.
32:28Yes.
32:29And bought it up from the traditional, slightly aged style from the 80s.
32:32Yes.
32:33Back roaring into the modern day.
32:35I bet there's been some wonderful Christmases and drinks parties and all that sort of thing
32:39here.
32:40I dare say, but you wait till you see the Grand Salon.
32:42Oh, can we see the Grand Salon?
32:44Let's go.
32:45Oh, look at this.
32:49Wow.
32:50That's amazing, isn't it?
32:53So, as you see, you've got the lovely afternoon sunshine coming through at the moment, double
32:57aspect sun.
32:58It really highlights the high ceilings and also the beautiful inlays and the floors as well.
33:02This is stunning.
33:03I love this floor.
33:06Oh, wow.
33:07So, Craig.
33:08Gosh.
33:09This lovely house comes complete with eight hectares of land through down the valley.
33:14All attached.
33:15It just sort of goes on and on, doesn't it?
33:17It's a lovely property.
33:18It's set really well up on the hill with its views.
33:22Yeah.
33:23No noise.
33:24No roads anywhere.
33:26Just this rolling, beautiful countryside all around you.
33:30It's just heaven here, isn't it?
33:32It's a slice of paradise.
33:33It really is.
33:34With the French sunshine.
33:35Aren't you meant to be house hunting?
33:37Thank you for reminding me.
33:39Yes, I am.
33:40I probably should get back to George and George.
33:42Okay.
33:43No problem.
33:44Thank you, Anthony.
33:45Thank you very much.
33:46Bye-bye now.
33:47Bye.
33:48For my final property, we're heading a little further afield.
33:51I'm taking George and George just outside our main search area and into neighbouring Charente
33:56and the very charming village of Briac.
33:59So, before we see the next house, I want to stop off to show them around first.
34:03So, here we are.
34:06Brought you to the little village of the Briac.
34:09While you want a rural lifestyle here, you do need your amenities and your facilities.
34:14There's a gorgeous little boulangerie just up the road from the mayor's office, which
34:18is here, which is where I've got the brioche from.
34:20Yeah, yeah.
34:21That also has a neighbouring little grocery store.
34:24There's a tabac there, a little place where you can get a coffee.
34:27So, listen, let's go off to the final property, but I wanted you to try a little slice
34:31of this beautiful brioche.
34:32So, take a piece of this.
34:33I was wondering who's going to offer that.
34:34Yeah, yeah.
34:35Brioche time has arrived.
34:36Cheese.
34:37I'll take some.
34:38It's from the local bakery.
34:39Let's see.
34:40Yeah.
34:41It opens at 7.30 in the morning.
34:42It closes then at 1pm, but then it opens from 5 till 7.
34:46Let's have a nibble of this, and then we'll head off to the final property.
34:49Oh, and by the way, how could I forget?
34:52The final property is about a six-minute walk from here.
34:55Ooh.
34:56Sounds good.
34:57So, all of this is on your doorstep.
34:59Okay.
35:00Yeah?
35:01Sounding good?
35:02Lovely.
35:03Lovely.
35:04Mmm.
35:05Lovely.
35:06Bon appetit.
35:07Mmm.
35:08I thought we'd nip over the border into Chahont for my final option, because house prices
35:12are 10% cheaper than in Orte Vienne, so I've tried to really push the boat out.
35:17The house in this village is full of the quirky character they like, and is the biggest I've
35:22been able to show them so far.
35:24I think it could be the perfect balance.
35:26While it doesn't need any immediate work, it also has the option for the DIY project thereafter
35:31too.
35:32Okay, George and George, come and stand this side.
35:35Okay.
35:36I want you to get a really good view of the final property.
35:40I'm really excited for you to see this one.
35:42It's the house over there with those beautiful golden shutters.
35:46Mm-hmm.
35:47Yeah.
35:48What are your first impressions seeing it from here?
35:50The whole facade of the property is really nice, isn't it?
35:52Yeah.
35:53Colourful, shutters, typical French, like everyone will say, but, I mean, no.
35:57It's really attractive, isn't it?
35:58Yeah.
35:59Even the bench on the front.
36:00We like benches, don't we?
36:01Yeah, we like benches.
36:02We met on a bench.
36:03We got a bench.
36:04Oh, that's true.
36:05I almost don't want to tell you too much about this because it's a real voyage of discovery
36:10as you go in and around the house.
36:13But to give you the bare bones, you've got four bedrooms here, great living and kitchen
36:17space and a wonderful garden.
36:19It's being sold for just under £71,500.
36:24Okay.
36:25So I realise again, I've gone into your wiggle room, but I think it's worth going into your
36:30wiggle room for the amount of house and garden you get.
36:32So, why don't we get in and see what you think of the final one.
36:35Mmm.
36:36Come on, let's go.
36:37Let's go.
36:38To the front of the house is a little terrace, while at the back adjoining a neighbouring
36:43plot is a good-sized garden.
36:45And there's a courtyard too that I know George and George could work wonders with.
36:51Inside is a large open-plan kitchen lounge diner.
36:55There's a huge bedroom and another really substantial double, both bright and airy.
37:03The third bedroom is a smaller double, and the fourth is currently used for storage.
37:08There's a modern shower room too.
37:10Next to the house is a huge barn, which could be the DIY project I know these two are after.
37:17Right, inside the final property, living space and kitchen.
37:26Mm-hmm.
37:27Good space.
37:28Mm-hmm.
37:29To me, the kitchen isn't quite so defined, but it's there.
37:33You know it's there, but...
37:35I'm looking up at that beam.
37:36Ah, yes.
37:37That's a cracker.
37:38Yeah, yeah.
37:39That's what you call a beam.
37:40That's what you call a beam.
37:41It is, isn't it?
37:42Yeah.
37:43It's beaming.
37:50Oh, wow.
37:51Yeah.
37:52This is definitely room with a view, isn't it?
37:54Yeah.
37:55We've not seen a room like this yet, have we?
37:57No.
37:58And what do you think of the scale of this, the size of this bedroom as well?
38:01Brilliant space.
38:02Brilliant space.
38:03I mean, just looking at that every morning.
38:05As soon as you get out of bed and see that, that's what you want, isn't it?
38:09Yeah.
38:10Pushing a real good mood.
38:11Yeah.
38:12Morning coffee and that view.
38:15So obviously we came up the pathway there.
38:18Mm.
38:19And then just to sort of explain the sort of lay of the land a little bit.
38:24So essentially, this is your space here that we're standing in now.
38:30This plot of land, this little square plot, that's actually not yours.
38:34That's currently rented by a Portuguese gentleman who now lives in Paris.
38:38The owner and the agent said to me, they think it'd be a really good chance of you to negotiate buying that land from the owner.
38:45Well, I guess the question is, as you're both keen gardeners, would this space be enough to do what you would like to do?
38:51Again, I'm going to say I ideally would like more.
38:55It's always about more with gardening.
38:57Because there's nothing out the front, it's just the pavement and the road.
39:02Mm-hmm.
39:03So that obviously is the compromise, isn't it?
39:05Yeah.
39:06So go and have a good look around, explore, discover the other surprises that await you, and then come and find me when you're done and I can see what you think.
39:15Mm.
39:16All right, head off.
39:17Righto.
39:18See you in a bit.
39:19Enjoy.
39:20So there we go.
39:21The final option I'm showing them.
39:23A few questions about the size of the garden, but they love the inside of the house.
39:27They love those views.
39:28Could this be another contender?
39:30We'll find out.
39:31Ah!
39:32A courtyard.
39:33Do you think that was a well?
39:34Certainly looks like a well, yeah.
39:35I think we could make a feature out of that.
39:36Yeah.
39:37Yeah, it would look good.
39:38Like a nice sort of chilling out space, isn't it?
39:39Nice and cool.
39:40Definitely.
39:41Nah, it's going to need a lot of thought, because it's a lot of space.
39:42Yeah, definitely.
39:43Yeah.
39:44But it's really attractive as well, isn't it?
39:45Yeah.
39:46This house in Jahant, on the market.
39:47For just under £71,500, definitely made both Georges smile.
40:06But I'm just not sure which way it's going to go.
40:10Hello again.
40:11Hi.
40:12So there you are, the final property.
40:16We've seen all around it now, inside and out.
40:18Yep.
40:19What are you thinking?
40:20This is a tremendous house inside.
40:22It's got everything.
40:23I mean, it's got everything.
40:24It's got good sized rooms.
40:25It's got fantastic views out of the upstairs, particularly.
40:28Yeah.
40:29And I'm struggling with the outside space.
40:31Are you?
40:32I am.
40:33Okay.
40:34Yeah, this one is all about the house, definitely.
40:36And the barn, which is huge.
40:38Yeah.
40:39In this case, I have to agree with George.
40:40This is such a shame, because I thought this had elements of everything you wanted.
40:44Yeah.
40:45Is our final property a contender?
40:47George S is shaking his head.
40:48Yeah.
40:49And what are you thinking, George B?
40:51Well, it's a no from me.
40:54A reluctant no, it is.
40:56All right.
40:57So let's then recap on where we are.
41:00The farmhouse with all that land, is that still a contender for you?
41:05Mm-hmm.
41:06Right.
41:07Okay.
41:08A considered nod from George S.
41:09Yes.
41:10And then when we saw the house with the stream in the garden.
41:13That's a contender.
41:14Yes.
41:15Well, in that case, why don't you take the rest of the evening to think about things?
41:19We can catch up tomorrow, and I can see what you'd like to do next.
41:22Yeah.
41:23All right.
41:24Let's head off.
41:25That's good.
41:26Okay.
41:27If you'd like more information about any of the properties featured on today's show,
41:31go to aplaceinthesun.com forward slash programs.
41:35It's been a really interesting search trying to find George and George's dream holiday
41:40home that they can one day move to permanently with their maximum budget of £75,000.
41:46After seeing all five properties, two were in the running.
41:49The stone farmhouse and the house with the stream.
41:52But overnight, we had some news which I shared with George and George.
41:56The house with the stream had an offer made on it that was accepted and is no longer on the market.
42:02So now, with only one option on the table, I wonder what my couple are planning to do.
42:07George and George, good morning.
42:09Good morning.
42:10Morning.
42:11How are you both?
42:12Very well, thank you.
42:13Yeah, good, thanks.
42:14Now, before we go any further, as you know, we had some news overnight that the fourth property
42:20I showed you, the house with the stream, has sold.
42:24Which is a shame because you were very fond of that, weren't you?
42:27We just absolutely loved that separate little lounge with the upstairs, its own staircase.
42:33Yes.
42:34Well, sadly that's not an option anymore.
42:37So let's now then return to the farmhouse.
42:41Remind me, George, yes, what you loved about the farmhouse when we arrived.
42:47Location.
42:48Yeah.
42:49The land.
42:50Mm.
42:51And traditional French, inside and out.
42:55Yes.
42:56The interior was lovely.
42:57Lots of bits and pieces that needed.
43:00Looking at to put it exactly what I'd feel I could totally live in.
43:06I'm not sure if it's just a step too far with the structural work.
43:11Right, so this leads me on to my next question then.
43:14Are you moving forward with the farmhouse?
43:19No.
43:20No, we're not.
43:21What a shame.
43:22Oh, very, very hard decision.
43:25I can see you're quite torn as you tell me.
43:27Yeah.
43:28We just feel there may be just a bit too much work to do there.
43:31To start with, we want it to be somewhere where we can come for a holiday and relax.
43:36Are we going to be there just working on the house all the time?
43:40I definitely got that you had a heart connection, both of you, with the farmhouse.
43:43But it's come down to the amount of work you need to do.
43:46Yeah.
43:47And then the house with the stream, if that was still available by the sounds of it,
43:52you would have moved forward with.
43:54Am I right?
43:55Yes, definitely.
43:56I know we haven't quite concluded things here, because a property that actually you
44:01would have moved forward, it was taken out of our hands.
44:04But you found it.
44:05But we found it.
44:06Yeah, exactly.
44:07And also I think moving forward, you now both have a clear idea.
44:11It's helped you really define within the budget what you want, hasn't it?
44:16I think so.
44:17Brilliant.
44:18Well, I've enjoyed spending time with you both.
44:20So thank you for sharing the journey with me.
44:22Thank you very much, yeah.
44:23Stay in touch.
44:24I want to know the minute you have signed a contract.
44:28Mm-hmm.
44:29And wish you all the best in the future.
44:32Brilliant.
44:33Cheers, George and George.
44:34Thanks very much for coming.
44:35Cheers.
44:40Well, I am disappointed.
44:42After finding a property they loved, things didn't quite go our way.
44:45But I'm really happy that a dream that started over 30 years ago is closer to becoming reality.
44:51And I don't think it's going to be too long before George and George are here making new memories in this glorious part of France.
44:58George and George have since found their perfect property in Bellac and we wish them all the best.
45:03If 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.
45:21We'll see you next time.
45:22Bye.
45:23Bye.
45:24Bye.
45:25Bye.
45:26Bye.
45:27Bye.
45:28Bye.
45:29Bye.
45:30Bye.
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