BBC Escape to the Country's Sonali Shah halts viewing as buyers 'blown away' by feature

by · NottinghamshireLive

Escape to the Country presenter Sonali Shah halted a property search and suggested "let's go back" after buyers were left astounded by an unexpected detail. In Friday's (October 25) episode of the popular BBC show, Sonali was on a quest to assist a couple in finding their dream home in the Welsh Borders for a more tranquil lifestyle.

Carpenter Scott and his wife Julie, a librarian and virtual PA, had their hearts set on starting anew in Wales after residing in Epsom Surrey for the past 16 years. The dance-enthusiast couple, who met in 2001, were attracted to the Wye Valley and Monmouthshire but remained open to properties on either side of the Welsh Borders.

Escape to the Country presenter Sonali Shah halted a property search and suggested "let's go back" after buyers were left astounded by an unexpected detail(Image: BBC)

They had a budget of £620k for a detached family home with at least three bedrooms, close to a village, and it was crucial that there was an outbuilding for Scott to establish his workshop. They also desired a large garden and land to start a holiday let business.

Discussing their reasons for wanting to relocate, Scott disclosed his eagerness to have more space to grow his business. He also shared: "I grew up in a town called Monmouth so I've been trying to get back and I've finally dragged Julie back here.Julie admitted that she wasn't bothered about the view, she added: " Julie confessed she wasn't overly concerned about the view, adding: "I would love somewhere with land or a little stream but I'm not too fussed about the view but as long as we are in nice surroundings."

Scott and wife Julie had set their sights on starting a new life in Wales(Image: BBC)

Sonail arranged several property viewings, ensuring they met the couple's requirements. However, just minutes into one viewing, the TV host declared: "Lets not see this house.", reports Wales Online.

As they walked onto the drive, Julie commented: "And a lovely view over there." Sonail was quick to retort: "And you didn't even want a view."

Julie admitted: "I didn't even want a view. I wasn't even worried about that but now it's here. Sonail: "Let's go back then and not see this house.

Sonali helped the couple find their dream home(Image: BBC)

"I grew up in a town called Monmouth so I've been trying to get back and I've finally dragged Julie back here.Julie admitted that she wasn't bothered about the view, she added: " Despite their initial attraction to the property, it was the Mystery house that truly captured their hearts. Located on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park and less than six miles from the market town of Hay-on-Wye, the Mystery house was a barn conversion priced at £615,000.

It had everything the couple wanted and was £500k under budget. Julie remarked: "It does take your breath away."

She noted: "The only negative is that it is in the middle of nowhere but It's the perfect house." Ultimately, they revealed plans to arrange a second viewing for the house.

Escape to the Country is available to watch on BBC iPlayer