Escape to the Country buyers forced to make huge decision after spotting problem with 'dream' property
Two house hunters on Escape to the Country were left with a big decision after finding their "dream home".
In Wednesday's (5 March) episode of the popular BBC One programme, Alistair Appleton escorted Maia and Oliver around three potential homes in The Highlands. The couple, planning to move from East Sussex, had a budget of £450,000 and were seeking a four-bedroom house within an hour's drive of Inverness.
They also wanted space for an art workshop and recording studio, preferably near water. As owners of a music promotion business and parents to five children, they needed ample space for family 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.
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The second property was a former croft house built in 1980, featuring five bedrooms, a vast kitchen, and a large outbuilding. Maia and Oliver labelled the property as "perfect" and seemed almost certain it could be their future home until Alistair introduced them to a third, mystery property.
The third property, originally a shepherd's cottage, had been renovated and was surrounded by extensive land. Although it was located slightly further away than the other properties, it still piqued Oliver and Maia's interest.
With four bedrooms and outbuildings, the cottage was inviting offers over £367,000.
"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," Maia enthused following Alistair's request for her opinion.
Oliver pointed out the one big problem with the home, which otherwise would be deemed perfect for the couple. He added: "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."
Maia unfortunately agreed: "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."
However, Alistair confirmed the couple had found an alternative home at the end of the episode. He told BBC 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 BBC One
