yumiko: the decisive factor was the price.ng a housese for one yend then renovating it slowly would be a dream come true. reportrter: although with thre children and a dog, it's not always peaceful. still, it's different from the city, and friends like to visit. sawako: it's wonderful looking out at the landscape. i'm jealouous! it's a wonderful escape from everyday life. reporter: for the sellers, the house had become a burden. even standing empty, it costs them 300 euros a month. the matsukubos are installing a small kitchen in a lower story. yumiko: anyone can use a hammer. it isn't all that hard. hideaki: it doesn't have to be perfect. reporter: in some areas, the local authorities offer subsidies for renovations. here, in higashi-izu, the matsukubos are doing the work themselves. yumiko: i enjoy doing this kind of work. it's very relaxing. the ideal stress therapy. reporter: what's more, there's a fresh breeze and a beautiful view of the sea. yumiko: yesterday, i asked the kids to run me a bath, but i got so engrossed in