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Retirement homes are designed to make your lifestyle both easier and more enjoyable in your golden years. Designed for the over 55s, retirement properties can help you remain independent while offering peace of mind. They’re usually set within a retirement village or complex, giving you support and a social scene right on your doorstep. Whatever type of retirement home you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered. Search retirement property for sale and discover the perfect place to call home in later life.
What is a retirement property?
Retirement properties can be flats, bungalows, lodges or even standalone houses, set within a purpose-built building or complex. You have extra support that you wouldn’t get with an ordinary home, from maintenance to daily caregiver assistance. Retirement properties are accessible too, so you’ll have lifts, hand rails and top-notch security tech. And you’ll be part of a community of people your age with shared facilities and activities to get involved with. The two main types of retirement homes are independent living and assisted living. This refers to the level of care provided by the landlord or a third party.
Types of retirement properties
Independent living is best for those aged over 55 who have an active lifestyle and require little support with daily activities. Things like building maintenance, housekeeping and security services are all part of the package, giving peace of mind and a sense of community.
Assisted living is a popular option for those who need more support but don’t want to move into a care home for people aged over 55. You have trained caregivers and nurses who can provide round-the-clock support to suit your needs. This can include help with daily tasks like dressing, showering and taking medication.
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Want to be near the grandchildren, your social club or just the local high street? We’ll help you stay close to what’s important.
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Retirement villages, with their spas, cinemas and on-site facilities can be enticing. But make sure you read the small print before signing up, as they can also be very expensive.
Financial help to buy a retirement property
If you want to buy a retirement home, special mortgages or schemes can help you afford it. The options include:
A lifetime mortgage: a form of equity release where you can you take a tax-free cash lump sum from the value of your home.
A retirement interest-only mortgage: you only pay the interest on the mortgage each month then repay the full amount at the end of the mortgage term.
Older People’s Shared Ownership: you buy part of the property and pay rent on the rest, so your deposit and mortgage are smaller (but you need to meet further eligibility criteria).
Deposit Unlock: a scheme that allows you to buy certain new-build homes with a 5% deposit.
Retirement schemes run by developers and housing associations, such as the Home for Life Plan.
Popular locations and property types
How about a new-build retirement home?
A new-build retirement property could give you the peace of mind and active lifestyle you’re looking for. Their benefits include:
Excellent energy efficiency to keep you warm and your bills low
Long-term warranties to cover any (unlikely) building issues
The latest security tech, from 24/7 call assistance to video entry systems
State-of-the-art lifestyle facilities like restaurants, wellness centres, lounges and communal gardens
Tailored domestic support and personal care if you need it.
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Our experts answer your questions
Why is buying a retirement property cheaper?
You usually buy a retirement property on a leasehold basis, which is what makes it cheaper than a standard property. The length of the lease is often 99 or 125 years.
Some providers offer discounts or schemes to help you buy, which can vary depending on your age and circumstances.
While the initial cost might be cheaper, you’ll pay a regular service charge and ground rent when you buy a retirement property. The service charge covers the cost of services provided by the landlord or third party provider and the ground rent is usually a condition of the lease. Make sure to budget for these when you’re planning your move.
What are the pros and cons of moving to a retirement property?
One of the main benefits of a retirement property for those aged over 55 is the lifestyle on offer. You’ll have a community of people at the same life stage and enjoy on-site facilities like restaurants, common rooms and gyms.
Retirement homes are designed to be accessible so your living spaces are ideally configured to your needs. You can get support around the clock and maintenance and repairs are taken care of.
However, service charges can mount up and keep in mind you might be hit with an exit fee if you want to move before your lease ends.