A retired couple with a tiny budget handed A Place in the Sun expert Jean Johansson one of her toughest challenges yet. She was asked to find the dream holiday home for a retired couple in Italy for next to nothing.
Linda, a retired NHS theatre nurse, and her painter and decorator partner Peter wanted to buy a property in Abruzzo, Italy – but didn't have much cash to splash. The Channel 4 presenter was gobsmacked when the couple admitted they only had £60,000, as Jean said she had never worked with such a low budget before.
Viewers were amazed that the couple had the cheek to make such a demand. Meanwhile, despite their small budget, the couple agreed they were "open-mind" about the property they would be able to afford.
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"We are just wondering what you're going to come up with because our budget isn't a very big one," Linda said. Jean replied: "I am glad you've brought that up, Linda.
"I mean I have to say, I've never worked with a budget of £60,000, so it's going to be a challenge for me."
The couple explained their hopes to spend half the year in southern Italy and were looking for a one bedroom property with some outdoor space. Jean asked if there was any chance of the couple increasing their budget and they agreed they'd be willing to stretch to £80,000 for the ideal property.
The Channel 4 property expert showed the couple a three-bedroom townhouse with three balconies, a large roof terrace with panoramic views and outdoor space for the first offering. On the market for £63,000 it was well within budget and the couple adored the open-plan kitchen diner, two living areas, three double bedrooms and two bathrooms.
Linda commented: "It's beautiful, it's a lot of house for the money. It's everything we asked for really, apart from a garden."
Jean showed the couple four more properties but it was clear their hearts were set on the three-bedroom townhouse. After deciding they wanted to pursue their interest in the townhouse, Peter told Jean he wanted to put forward a "verbal" offer of £57,000 which was immediately declined.
Linda and Peter came back with a counteroffer that was eventually accepted by the owner much to the couple's excitement. A Place in the Sun viewers found Linda and Peter's cheeky haggling amusing considering their low budget.
On Twitter, @CI5TonyRhodes said: "This is a bit like a tooth extraction with no pain relief!" Meanwhile, @Katrina_15 commented: "What's he on about 'verbally'??? Is he just playing games???...."
@Beckie_Miller_ said: "Peter is not going to be handing over any money. Not a chance in hell" And @shrimpsy291 added: "Verbal offer ?? He’s not parting with his money!"
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