In the most recent episode of presenter Alistair Appleton faced quite the housing challenge. The show featured a family ready to trade the hustle of London for the tranquillity of West Sussex.
As the episode kicked off, viewers were immediately told by Alistair that this particular home search stood out from the norm.
With enthusiasm, he declared: “This episode of Escape to the Country is super exciting, but a little bit complicated.”
Tasked with an extraordinary mission, Alistair had to locate not one, but two homes suitable for a family spread across four-generations. He highlighted that the two properties needed to be in exceptionally close proximity, if not side by side.
The living arrangement would see Nikki, her husband Andy, and their children in one house, while Nikki’s parents, Bruce and Mary, would be in another. They also needed an annexe for her grandad George.
Escape to the Country host details ‘complicated’ search as he shares ‘pressure’ (Image: BBC)
Before encountering the family Alistair admitted: “I think this is a first? A first for me anyway to have two families moving into the same village at the same time.”
Upon discussing with Nikki, Andy and Bruce prior to unveiling the potential homes, it became evident that the complexity of their situation weighed heavily on them, reports
Alistair noted the unusual dynamics of the discussion, adding: “I’m so used to talking to two people it’s nice to have three! But, you’re representing seven. That’s quite a lot of pressure on all your shoulders.”
Understanding their unique situation to live in mutual closeness, Alistair asked about what compromises they might consider.
The family were on the hunt for two houses during their search (Image: BBC)
Andy was seeking the perfect retreat for his family, emphasising the importance of proximity to Bruce and Mary for their daughters’ to be able to easily visit, ideally avoiding crossing any busy roads.
Reflecting on the tricky task at hand, Alistair acknowledged: “I have to say, you’ve given us quite a challenge. But I think we’ve found some interesting possibilities.”
Introducing the first potential abode, the visit to a charming bungalow in the village of Yapton left Nikki and her father utterly impressed. As they toured the property, Bruce marvelled at the garden, labelling it ‘exceptional’.
In the end, they learnt the home was available to offers over £600,000. Although it was to be sold at auction, where the successful buyer pays a non-refundable fee to reserve the property, which is on top of the purchase value.
The BBC host needed a house suited for a family across four generations (Image: BBC)
With their property quest concluded, a candid Nikki admitted the initial house felt like striking gold, confessing her adoration for it despite the surprise mystery home, which added complication.
Despite the presented options falling short of their dream home, the experience was eye-opening, broadening their search horizons within the county.
Escape to the Country is available to watch on iPlayer.