Emotions were high just minutes into A Place in the Sun, today (May 8). The buyers had a very personal reason as to why they decided to seek out a second home in the sun.
Jean Johansson was back at the helm of the Channel 4 property show. She was on hand to help to help couple Joanne and Darren find a property in Costa del Sol in Spain.
Joanne explained that she had a heartfelt reason behind wanting to buy a property abroad. She said: “My brother sadly passed away ten years ago and one of our last conversations was I had to make sure that we had as much fun as possible.”
The buyer added: “He loved the beach and being abroad so we thought this would be the perfect was to honour his memory.”
Jean had an emotional response, as she gushed: “Aw, that is so beautiful.” She put her hands together, before adding: “What a great reason to take the plunge and get yourself a holiday home.”
The couple hoped for a property with three bedrooms, a swimming pool, some outdoor space and a balcony. They had a budget of £180,000 with wiggle room of £20,000.
After being shown around five homes that Jean felt suited the buyers’ needs, Joanne and Darren whittled them down to two contenders. The couple loved a three bedroom apartment right by the sea and a spacious five bedroom townhouse.
Speaking in a voiceover, ahead of the hopeful property owners making a decision, Jean said: “They have been dreaming of owning a holiday home abroad to enjoy with their family for a long time.
“Especially so after sadly losing Joanne’s brother, Matthew, ten years ago. So I am delighted we found two strong contenders.”
The next day on the show, the couple had made their choice. Joanne became emotional as she said they had opted to make an offer on the apartment.
Jean asked if the buyer was ok, to which Joanne replied, while fighting back tears: “Yeah, I just feel a bit emotional. I just know this is what my brother would want and I’m sure he’s just looking down now with a big smile on his face.”
The property was on the market for £188,000, with the buyers putting in an offer of £170,000. Darren explained that they were making a low offer due to wanting to do extra work to the property. The offer was rejected so they upped it to £178,000 in cash, which the seller eventually accepted.
There were tears all round as the host and guests celebrated. Jean wiped away tears, as she said: “I have never been happier for a couple”, and they all raised a glass in memory of Matthew.
A Place in the Sun airs weekdays at 3pm on Channel 4
