Snooping around: Rural, urban or renovation

Wreck of the week: Oxfordshire. This two- to three-bed semi in Taynton, near Burford, needs modernising, perhaps by shedding one of the two staircases. For £399,950 you get a Cotswold idyll in a glorious village with flagstoned floors and a dramatic hearth. Various outbuildings could be usefully harnessed. But beware, “bedroom” three is essentially a landing.
Jackson-Stops & Staff, 01993 822661
Photograph: Jackson-Stops & Staff

In the country: Argyll. You get half an acre of Highland wilderness at Dalmally, near Taynuilt, all to yourself. You are a mile from the village and 13 miles from proper shops. Living is bright in three bedrooms, two receptions and a covered, decked terrace. It’s a shame the bungalow itself is less than beautiful. Offers over £250,000 will be considered.
Strutt & Parker, 0141 225 3880
Photograph: Strutt & Parker

In town: London. This bright and lofty £195,000 first-floor flat in W5 is in a handsome building and boasts smart fittings throughout. It is a shame, however, that the only bedroom is less than 7ft wide. Ealing Broadway's shops and mainline station are half a mile away.
Townends, 020 8579 9282
Photograph: Townends

Dream home: Cornwall. The perfections of the Charlestown harbour have earned it many hours of screen fame, and this former coastguard’s cottage absorbs it all. The raised terrace and summerhouse overlook the sea, and a gate from the front garden leads on to the quay where historic tall ships are moored. The back garden ends in fields. The three double bedrooms are all en suite, although the décor could do with a few tweaks. Yours for £565,000.
Waterfront & Country Homes, 01872 273474
Photograph: Waterfront & Country Homes

Over the sea: France. This is no holiday home, for you will never tear yourself from the poolside. And loneliness need not trouble you because you can stow half your address book in the six bedrooms and four receptions. It sits in two hectares of a Gascon valley surrounded by its own woodland with views to the Pyrenees. The windows, radiators and décor have all been overhauled and vintage details such as beams and fireplaces are intact. Pau airport is 40 minutes away. Yours for £534,464.
Purslows-Gascony, 00 33 5 62676150
Photograph: Purslows-Gascony