During a recent episode of BBC’s popular show “Escape to the Country,” aired on Friday, 4th March, a couple from Blackheath, southeast London, experienced a moment of utter disbelief upon learning the price of an impressive property. The episode featured presenter Alistair Appleton assisting Lynne, a business manager, and her husband Mark, who manages a store for a prominent supermarket chain, in their quest to move to the idyllic rural landscape of Berkshire.

The couple, looking to transition from their two-bedroom Grade I listed Georgian home, aimed for a more spacious dwelling with a budget of £1 million. Their property wishlist was quite specific, encompassing a need for at least three bedrooms, a spacious kitchen-diner suited for social occasions, designated areas for a gym and office, as well as a garden extending between half an acre to a full acre. Additionally, they sought a location within an hour’s commute to Lynne’s workplace in Henley.

Appleton curated an array of properties for their consideration, but one unique architect-designed home in Abingdon, South Oxfordshire, captured their imagination right away. Showcasing a generous open-plan kitchen-dining-living area with terrace-access sliding doors, four bedrooms, a study, and an ample garden, this residence checked many boxes on their list.

Upon their first approach to the property, Lynne exclaimed, “Oh, wow! Oh my gosh!” as she took in the beauty of the home. Mark, equally taken aback, expressed his astonishment, stating, “I am gobsmacked. I mean honestly, this just looks absolutely amazing. Wow.” Appleton, noticing Lynne’s quieter reaction, asked, “So Mark, you’re ecstatic. Lynne, you’re quiet. Does that mean that you’re not so ecstatic?” to which she replied, “No, it’s absolutely stunning. I’m taking it all in. It’s very different, but in a really good way.”

To the couple’s delight, Appleton revealed that the property was listed for offers over £875,000, which was beneath their budget. Mark conveyed his surprise, saying, “Wow! That is a real surprise and considering what you’re getting, I mean that is a shocker, an absolute shocker.”

Despite their initial enthusiasm for the home, the couple ultimately made the decision not to make an offer and opted to view a different property instead.

“Escape to the Country” continues to air weekdays at 3pm on BBC One and is available for streaming on iPlayer.

Source: Noah Wire Services