Escape to the Country buyers with hefty £1m budget spot major 'challenge' during search

A couple on the BBC show were left disappointed after viewing a property that was within their £1 million budget due to the amount of work needed in the home.

16:41, Wed, Aug 28, 2024 | UPDATED: 16:53, Wed, Aug 28, 2024

ETTC: Guest says whole house renovation will be a challenge

During Wednesday's episode of Escape to the Country, a London couple faced a tough decision while house hunting in the Essex countryside.

Craig and Ye Soe, eager to swap city life for rural bliss, had a substantial £1 million budget to fulfil their dream of a four-bedroom home with extra space for Craig's mother and work outbuildings.

BBC presenter Ginny Buckley was tasked with meeting their demands, leading them to a stunning seven-acre Georgian farmhouse as their second viewing.

Ye Soe couldn't contain his excitement, exclaiming: "Let's go, I can't wait to see inside."

But the property's period charm didn't quite hit the mark, with Ginny warning: "You will be limited to what you can do, but you do still have scope to be able to perhaps put your own mark on here. reports Wales Online.

BBC

The BBC expert showed one couple a traditional Georgian property (Image: BBC)

Despite being open to some DIY, Craig and Ye Soe realised the renovation might be more extensive than they'd like.

Craig said:"I think for me, whilst we're open if it's one or two or three rooms but if it's a whole house that needs updating, then that might present a bit more of a challenge."

"So, just need to be open-minded."

Escape to the Country

Craig and Ye Soe weren't blown away by the work needed in the home (Image: BBC)

The expansive garden and land left them impressed, yet the revelation that the farmhouse cost exactly their £1 million budget led Ginny to suggest a thorough second look.

Craig Doyle, speaking directly to the camera, expressed his initial thoughts on a property: "First impressions, it looked quite big it looked spacious, it looked quite modern from the outside."

BBC

Craig thought the renovations would be too much of a challenge (Image: BBC)

He added, "There's a lot of rooms, but, they're relatively small. When we looked around the land it's beautiful, the grounds are mature but maybe the house is just a little too mature as well."

Ye Soe agreed, noting that the required adjustments would be too much hassle.

Ultimately, the duo informed Ginny that their search for the perfect home would continue.

Escape to the Country is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.