An Escape to the Country hopeful was left utterly “overwhelmed” within moments of her property hunt as presenter Sonali Shah unveiled a “hidden” gem in one of the homes.
In the episode aired on Tuesday (March 4), Sonali set out to assist an outdoor-loving buyer in finding her ideal abode in the scenic South Wales region.
Vanessa, a 31-year-old from Germany who relocated to the UK in 2013, resides with a friend in Witney, Oxfordshire. However, she was determined to embark on a fresh chapter with her trio of chihuahuas, Darcey, AJ, and Pippin, in the Welsh countryside.
With a passion for activities such as sailing and roller skating, where she met her companion Donna, who accompanied her on the house hunt, Vanessa was drawn to the rural lifestyle.
The account manager had a £180,000 budget to secure a distinctive character home, preferably a cottage with a dog-secure garden. She required two to three bedrooms to entertain guests and desired a location no more than half an hour’s drive from a lake or the seaside, reports .
Sonali Shah was on a mission to help an outdoor enthusiast find her dream home in South Wales (Image: BBC)
Vanessa shared her motivation for the solo move: “I would love to have a cottage in South Wales because I love the scenery, the countryside, the waterfalls and the beaches. I love it.”
She also highlighted the significance of a garden in her new home, expressing her wish: “I would love for them (her dogs) to have their own garden and someone I could take them on a long walk with because they really are a big part of my life.”
Sonali meticulously arranged several property showings tailored to Vanessa’s preferences, yet during one particular house tour, she unveiled an unexpected perk that she knew would captivate Vanessa.
As they stepped into the back garden, Sonali couldn’t contain her excitement: “I’ve been dying to tell you a hidden secret about this house, but I wanted to check that you liked the house first. Behind you is actually a garage with access from the road behind.”
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Vanessa was keen on the countryside because of her many outdoor hobbies including sailing and roller skating (Image: BBC)
Vanessa was thrilled, exclaiming: “That’s amazing.” Sonali disclosed: “And there is plenty of space for your paddle board, bicycle, and all the outdoor pursuits.”
Vanessa excitedly considered the possibilities: “Maybe my dinghy can fit, too,” to which she confessed, “It’s overwhelming but surprising and really positive.”
The abode in question was a freshly refurbished mid-terrace nestled in Bryn, Neath Port Talbot, complete with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and not forgetting the separate garage ideal for Vanessa’s sporting equipment, all framed by idyllic countryside vistas.
Adding to the allure was the price tag, as it was on the market for £175,000, and the property was under budget. Despite being smitten with this home, Vanessa ultimately chose to bid on a different property.
Escape to the Country airs weekdays from 3pm on One and iPlayer