Television presenter Ben Hillman expressed sheer astonishment during a recent episode of A Place In The Sun: What Happened Next?, as he witnessed the remarkable four-year transformation of a couple's property in Lanzarote. The Channel 4 host, aged 47, returned to screens on Tuesday to catch up with Nicola and Paul, who originally appeared on the show in November 2020 in search of their ideal overseas home.
From Dream to Reality: A Property Journey Unfolds
Back in 2020, Nicola and Paul were determined to find a one or two-bedroom apartment featuring a communal pool and private outdoor space near Puerto del Carmen in Lanzarote. Operating with a budget of £180,000, they quickly fell in love with one of the properties showcased by Ben Hillman during their initial appearance. The couple promptly made an offer, which was accepted by the owner, setting the stage for their new life abroad.
A Stunning Revelation Upon Return
When Ben Hillman revisited the Canary Island residence four years later, he was immediately struck by the dramatic changes. Upon entering the living space, he exclaimed, 'Oh my goodness, seriously, guys, this is incredible. It's a lot different. I mean, I get it it's the same, like the layout is the same, which is what you loved but apart from that, my goodness it is completely new property, isn't it?' The host's reaction highlighted the extensive renovations that had completely revitalised the apartment.
The kitchen, which previously featured white cupboard doors and wooden work surfaces in 2020, had been transformed into a modern culinary space that Paul described as 'perfect'. Similarly, the living area once adorned with oak furniture and floral curtains now boasted contemporary white furniture and matching curtains, creating a cohesive and updated aesthetic throughout the home.
Navigating Renovation Challenges Abroad
An intrigued Ben Hillman questioned how the couple managed such an extensive renovation project in a foreign country. He asked, 'How easy is this to achieve when you don't know a builder here, you don't know how much things cost you, you don't necessarily know where to get everything from. How was that?'
Nicola explained their approach, stating, 'Recommendations for the fantastic build who've done where the complex. We went shopping with the big major stores to buy the kitchen, the bathrooms, the tiles.' She further emphasised the crucial role played by their solicitor, describing them as 'amazing', while Paul added, 'They basically hold your hand the whole way, it's just one step after the other, until completion.'
The Financial Investment Behind the Transformation
When Ben inquired about the financial aspects of their renovation journey, he learned that the couple had purchased the property for £165,000 four years earlier. Nicola confessed that they had spent approximately £20,000 on building costs, plumbing, rewiring, kitchen installation, and bathroom renovations. Ben responded approvingly, telling them, 'All in all, £180,000, I think that is money well spent.'
A Place In The Sun first premiered on Channel 4 in 2000 and has since become a staple of British television, helping contributors find their perfect homes abroad with assistance from property experts. The current roster of experts on the show includes Ben Hillman, Jasmine Harman, Laura Hamilton, Sara Damergi, Jean Johansson, Lee Juggurnauth, Leah Charles-King, Craig Rowe, and Lucy Alexander.
This episode serves as a testament to the transformative power of strategic renovation and careful planning, demonstrating how a dream property abroad can evolve into a personalised sanctuary through dedication and smart investment.
