Downsizing with a client to find ideal location for her next chapter
Far from the stereotype of Thursday Murder Club vibes in a retirement village, downsizing is becoming very popular as older generations are keen to explore new activities in vibrant towns.
Chiltern Relocation recently arranged a Viewing Day for a client wishing to downsize and move closer to her children and grandchildren. Having lived in a sizeable character family home for many decades this move was a practical one but also an emotional one.
Downsizing often conjures up the image of retirement villages and slowing down in life. However, we wanted to shake up this image for our client by showing her a choice of property options in a range of sought after towns with plenty of activities on offer for individuals, families and older generations.
Why Downsize?
One of the most compelling reasons to downsize is financial. A smaller home typically allows clients to release capital for the savings or family, reduced utility costs and decreased maintenance expenses. These savings can be redirected toward retirement, travel, education or simply reducing debt.
Reducing time, money and energy on upkeep of a large property is also a huge driver for moving. Large properties require constant attention and good-sized gardens can become challenging physically and financially draining to upkeep.
Choosing a location that is better connected. Often downsizers live in properties that require getting in the car for everyday essentials. Choosing a property within walking distance of the local High Street for day-to-day essentials, the doctor’s surgery, local cafes and amenities is a huge draw for downsizers.
What makes a downsizing client different to other clients?
We understand that downsizing is often a very emotional time. Many of our downsizing clients have lived in the same property for a long time and the thought of having to negotiate the property market, dealing with solicitors, stamp duty and navigating all the elements of conveyancing can seem overwhelming. The thought of removals and decluttering can be stressful for many. There is also the emotional pull of the current house with its memories. At Chiltern Relocation we are very aware that there is a lot to consider for downsizers both emotionally and practically but we strive to take away the burden of worry and help at every step of the way to help make the process as smooth as possible.
Focusing on Marlow and Henley-on-Thames for downsizing
We recommend a wide range of locations in the Chilterns for downsizers – each with their own particular character. With our client this week, we focused in on Marlow and Henley-on-Thames. Both riverside towns are very popular with all generations, making them highly desirable for all stages of life. We viewed a range of properties including apartments in character buildings. These apartments had been thoughtfully designed with excellent facilities yet kept much of the charm of the historic building. We also viewed modern apartments in blocks that we within striking distance of the High Streets, in addition to small mews houses with lots of character. We chose Marlow and Henley-on-Thames as they were both well located for our client’s family but also due to the wealth of green space, beautiful riverside location and easy access to social amenities and transport links.
Where else is great for downsizers?
Gerrards Cross has a wealth of luxury gated apartment blocks that are popular with both young professionals and downsizers. The town has a range independent shops and restaurants and a major supermarket. Direct trains into Marylebone take just 20 minutes.
Wokingham is a historic market town and the general market runs every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday in addition to a farmers’ market once a month. This attractive town full of character has a wealth of facilities on offer, a real community feel and enjoys great transport links.
Amersham is a really popular choice with easy accessibility to London, excellent amenities on hand but coupled with a countryside feel. Amersham Old Town is popular with its quaint appeal and great shopping, cafes and restaurants and new Amersham has all the big High Street names and a fabulous new sports centre with activities and classes for all ages.
If you would like more information about towns and villages that are ideal for downsizers and would like help with your new chapter then please do get in touch. Call 01494 672086, email enquiries@chilternrelocation.com or visit our site for more information www.chilternrelocation.com
