Escape to the Country took a poignant turn as presenter Jules Hudson unveiled the heart-wrenching reason behind potential buyers’ decision to relocate.
In Wednesday’s episode (December 18) of the popular programme, Jules was accompanied by couple Karen and Steve who were keen on trading their caravan for a permanent home in the picturesque Wye Valley in Herefordshire.
The pair had previously sold their West Sussex residence with intentions of spending their retirement in their holiday home on Portugal’s Silver Coast, but have now decided to return to the UK.
With a generous budget of £650,000, Karen and Steve were on the hunt for a three-bedroom detached property ideally situated on the outskirts of a village with a community feel and a local pub. They also desired a spacious kitchen, a garden for growing vegetables, and it was crucial that the location was tranquil.
Just moments before embarking on their property search, Jules disclosed that one of the primary motivations for their move was Karen’s health, reports .
Karen and Steve were looking to sell their caravan for a staycation home in the idyllic Wye Valley in Herefordshire (Image: BBC)
He continued: “Now, I know Karen that recently you were diagnosed with MS so I imagine that has a huge impact on your decision to change life in general.”
Karen appeared visibly touched as she elaborated: “Yes absolutely. I had to give up my career but we just decided to do all of the things that we wanted to do now rather than leave it and fortunately, Steve is incredibly supportive and whatever it takes really.”
She further added: “So we’re just having adventures now, and then the aim is if we do it all, we’ll just do it all over again.” Jules was left scratching his head when, after a week of property viewings, Steve and Karen were unable to reach a decision, prompting him to share his surprise.
The presenter said: “Well this week we’ve given Steve and Karen, I think four really interesting options to choose from and normally at this stage in the process, as our house tours have come to an end, I’ve got a pretty good idea as to which property our buyers might actually pick.”
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Jules Hudson on Escape to the Country (Image: (Image: BBC))
“But on this occasion, if I’m absolutely honest, I don’t think I actually know. Well of course there’s only one way to find out,”.
During a sit-down with the couple, a perplexed Jules remarked: “Goodness me guys, now this is unusual for me but I am struggling to figure out what you’re going to do next.”
To which Steve quipped: “I think we can forgive you for being confused as to how we feel cos I think we are as well.” Despite revisiting the mystery house, Karen and Steve ultimately chose not to submit an offer.
Escape to the Country airs weekdays from 3pm on One and iPlayer