Devon Dream Home Dashed: Escape to the Country Couple Left Disheartened
Escape to the Country host Jules Hudson delivered disappointing news to a couple hoping to find their dream home in Devon during Tuesday's episode of the popular BBC show. Chris, a former accounting firm partner, and his wife Sarah, an educational consultant, were eager to trade their Hove life for a countryside escape.
"The thing that excites me about a move to the countryside is the space we are going to have," Sarah shared, outlining their desire for a property with land, a cottage or annex for her mother, and ample space for guests.
The couple, married in 2016 after meeting online, had a substantial £1.4 million budget and a clear vision for their ideal property. They sought a minimum of four to five bedrooms, a spacious kitchen and living area, and ideally three to four acres of land. Location was also key, with a preference for the edge of a village within a 40-minute commute to a train station.
Jules acknowledged the scope of the task ahead: "This move isn't just about Chris and Sarah. There are two generations hoping to make the move with them. Toni, Sarah's mum, who's looking for a genuine sense of independence, and Chris' son Harry, who is also looking to make Devon his new home."
The couple's search led them to a captivating property situated a few miles outside Bampton. This former trio of cottages, now transformed into a single dwelling, captivated Chris and Sarah with its ample space and charm, all while falling within their budget at £1.25 million.
The home boasted a large kitchen/diner, five reception rooms, six bedrooms, nine acres of land, a swimming pool, tennis court, and outbuildings with potential for Sarah's mother's annex.
"If this is the first property, I'm not sure how much better things can get," Sarah remarked. Chris echoed her sentiment, stating, "The house just ticked my boxes, really. I love what I've seen in the house, especially the space, and the opportunity it gives to change things, and the icing on the cake is everything that surrounds it."
However, the couple's dream was quickly dashed. Jules revealed that their favourite property had been snapped up before they could even make a second viewing.
"Sarah and Chris were very keen to see the first house again, but unfortunately, it was snapped up before they had the chance. They do have their eye on another property in Devon, and we wish them the very best of luck securing it," Jules shared with viewers.
While Chris and Sarah's Devon house hunt may not have ended as they hoped, they remain optimistic about finding their ideal countryside retreat.
Escape to the Country airs weekdays at 3pm on BBC One.
