Two prospective buyers on Escape to the Country were left in a quandary after finding their “dream home,” only to encounter a significant drawback.
In Wednesday’s (5 March) episode of the popular One programme, Alistair Appleton took Maia and Oliver around three potential properties in The Highlands.
The couple, planning to move from East Sussex, had a budget of £450,000 and sought a four-bedroom house within an hour’s drive of Inverness, with space for an art workshop and recording studio, preferably near water. Running a music promotion business together and having five children, they needed ample space for visits.
The first property, located in Dingwall, boasted four bedrooms and stunning views, offering plenty of scope for renovations. Priced at £430,000, it greatly impressed the pair.
The second property was a former croft house constructed in 1980, featuring five bedrooms, a vast kitchen, and a large outbuilding. Maia and Oliver deemed the property “perfect” and seemed almost certain it was the one until Alistair introduced them to a third, mystery property, reports .
Maia and Oliver on Escape to the Country (Image: BBC)
This third property, originally a shepherd’s cottage, had been renovated and was surrounded by extensive land. Located slightly further afield than the other homes, it piqued Oliver and Maia’s interest. With four bedrooms and outbuildings, the cottage was inviting offers above £367,000.
Maia couldn’t hide her enthusiasm as she exclaimed to Alistair: “It’s absolutely stunning. I was just saying that although we like all kinds of houses, I think, up here, this would be my ideal house. That view, that is just perfect.”
Oliver then highlighted the sole significant drawback of the otherwise idyllic property, noting: “I would agree. The way it’s been done, you’ve got the sea not too far, the views are lovely. The big compromise is the road.”
The couple fell in love with one property (Image: BBC)
Regrettably, Maia agreed with Oliver: “Yeah, it is just the road. That’s it. That’s the only thing. I can see myself living in a house like this, definitely. But I think the road for me is the problem.”
Nonetheless, Alistair had some good news to share at the episode’s conclusion, informing viewers: “The day after filming, a property came to the market near to the first house we saw, offering everything Maia and Oliver were looking for.
“I’m very pleased to say their offer on it has been accepted. We wish them every happiness for their future in The Highlands.”
Escape to the Country airs on weekdays at 3pm on One