Ep 2. Young and Frugal in Paris

In season 91 episode 2 of House Hunters International, titled "Young and Frugal in Paris," viewers join a young couple on their search for their first home in the City of Light. This couple, determined to make a life in Paris despite limited resources, has a budget of only 500,000 euros, a modest amount by Parisian standards.

As the episode begins, we meet the couple: Andy and Katie, who have left their comfortable life in the United States and are eager to embark on this new adventure. They have been living in a small apartment in the 10th arrondissement but are ready to move into something more permanent. The couple is clear that they want to stay in the city and is willing to compromise on size and location to fit their budget. They hope to find a place that's big enough for entertaining guests and that has traditional Parisian charm.

The couple's agent, Sophie, quickly clarifies that their budget will make finding anything in Paris a challenge. However, she is optimistic and sets out to find them the best options. The first apartment they visit is a small studio in the Latin Quarter, which lacks charm and is not spacious enough for their requirements. The second apartment that Sophie shows them is more spacious with two bedrooms, but it does not have the traditional Parisian character that they are looking for.

The couple is disheartened, but Sophie reassures them that she is determined to find them a home in their budget that fits their wishlist. They are shown a third apartment that is in north Paris, an area that is being gentrified, and the couple likes the location. The apartment is on two levels, and though it needs renovation, it exudes the character they are looking for and has the space they want. They ultimately decide that with the renovation, this apartment could be their dream home.

There are some challenges along the way. The couple must navigate the French legal system, which is different from what they are accustomed to in the US. Andy and Katie must contend with permits, paperwork, and French notaries, which puts them out of their comfort zone. However, they persevere, and with Sophie's help, they complete the sale and begin their renovations.

The final scenes show Andy and Katie hard at work on their new apartment. They have gone from apartment-hunting to being immersed in the process of making their first home in Paris a reality. The couple is excited, and despite the challenges, they feel it was worth it.

In conclusion, House Hunters International season 91 episode 2, "Young and Frugal in Paris," is a heartwarming and relatable story for anyone who has ever searched for a home on a budget. The episode showcases Paris as a beautiful and exciting city, but also highlights the realities of finding a home in this expensive and competitive market. The couple's determination and resilience, along with their agent's expertise and support, make for a compelling story that viewers will find both informative and enjoyable.