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Escape to the Country Explores Powys as Couple Seeks Rural Lifestyle Change
In a recent episode of Escape to the Country, broadcast on Thursday, March 3rd, presenter Steve Brown guided viewers through the scenic landscapes of Powys, Wales, as he assisted a couple in their house hunting journey for an idyllic countryside residence. The episode focused on finding the perfect property for a significant lifestyle shift.
Couple’s Quest for Welsh Retreat and Business Venture
Rich and Sue, the featured couple, expressed a strong desire to relocate to the Welsh countryside, seeking a complete change of pace. They embarked on their property search with a substantial budget of £600,000, aiming to find not only a rural retreat but also a location suitable for establishing a business. Their vision included creating holiday let accommodations, potentially in the form of glamping pods, on the premises.
Property Showcase in Powys
Steve Brown presented Sue and Rich with three diverse property options, each possessing distinct characteristics and potential to meet their requirements. The locations spanned various picturesque areas within Powys, offering a range of choices for their consideration.
Property 1: Franksbridge Cottage
The first property showcased was a 19th-century cottage situated in Franksbridge, available for £495,000. This charming residence featured three bedrooms, three reception rooms, and an expansive acre of land. It presented a considerable opportunity for Rich and Sue to develop their envisioned holiday let business.
Property 2: Penybont Residence with Existing Holiday Lets
The second property, located in Penybont and priced at £650,000, offered even more amenities. It included four bedrooms, three reception areas, a half-acre of land, and notably, two pre-existing holiday let units, one of which was described as a luxurious shepherd’s hut. This option appeared to align closely with the couple’s criteria.
Despite acknowledging the Penybont house’s “cosy, welcoming feeling” and its “gorgeous” appeal, Rich and Sue seemed hesitant, indicating it might not fully meet their aspirations for their rural property.
Property 3: 1960s Bungalow with Acreage
The third and final offering proved to be the most captivating for the couple. This 1960s bungalow, requiring some modernisation, was priced at £550,000 and came with four bedrooms and a significant 6.2 acres of land. The extensive grounds included a walled garden and two paddocks, adding to its appeal as a potential rural retreat.
During their exploration of the bungalow and its scenic surroundings, Sue was visibly moved by the expansive garden, expressing her emotional response with: “It’s making me cry!” Rich echoed her sentiment, humorously stating his struggle to articulate his positive impressions beyond repeated exclamations of “wow”.
Enthusiasm and Unforeseen Setback
In a subsequent conversation with Steve, Rich and Sue conveyed their eagerness to make an offer on the third property. They expressed their excitement about starting a new chapter in Powys, looking forward to creating their ideal home and launching their business venture. Their hopes were high for this countryside relocation.
However, the episode concluded with an unexpected turn of events. Despite Rich and Sue submitting a bid for the bungalow, the homeowner accepted a higher offer from another buyer. This development meant the couple’s property search in Wales would continue, leaving their dream of a rural escape temporarily on hold.