Escape to the Country buyer ‘overwhelmed’ as host reveals property's ‘hidden secret’
One Escape to the Country buyer was left feeling "overwhelmed" just minutes into the search as host Sonali Shah revealed a "hidden" feature in the property.
During Tuesday’s (March 4) episode of the BBC hit show, Sonali was on a mission to help an outdoor enthusiast find her dream home in South Wales.
German-born Vanessa, 31, moved to the UK in 2013 and has been living with a friend in the Oxfordshire town of Witney. But she was set on starting a new life with her three chihuahuas, Darcey, AJ, and Pippin, in Wales.
Vanessa was keen on the countryside because of her many outdoor hobbies, including sailing and roller skating, where she met her friend Donna, who joined her on the search.
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The account manager had a budget of £180,000 for a unique character property, ideally a cottage with a secure garden for her dogs. It was important that the home had two to three bedrooms so she could host friends and be in a rural location - no more than a 30-minute drive from a lake or the coast.
Speaking about why she wanted to make the big move on her own, Vanessa said: “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.”
Revealing why a garden was an important feature of the house, she admitted: “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 set up several property viewings and made sure they had everything Vanessa was looking for, but just minutes into one viewing, she revealed a hidden feature that Vanessa would love.
Walking out to the garden, Sonali revealed: “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.”
Vanessa went on to say: “That’s amazing.” Sonali continued: “And there is plenty of space for your paddle board, bicycle, and all the outdoor pursuits.”
“Maybe my dinghy can fit, too,” Vanessa replied. “It’s overwhelming but surprising and really positive.”
The property in question was a newly renovated mid-terrace located in Bryn, Neath Port Talbot. It has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, a separate garage for storing Vanessa’s sports gear as well as countryside views.
To make things even better, it was below budget, as it was on the market for £175,000. Despite falling in love with the home, Vanessa ultimately decided to put an offer in for a different property.
Escape to the Country airs weekdays from 3pm on BBC One and iPlayer
