Chiltern Relocation helps to find properties for a wide range of clients including families wanting to move for schooling and green space to corporate clients with specific needs. We also hear from couples who are considering downsizing and would like some help with this big step. Downsizing is a huge decision and getting the timing right is key as the move is much more than simply a change of house dimensions.
In our 20 years of experience our simple advice is don’t leave it too late. Emotional ties to a property can be huge, but the best time to do it is earlier than you think. You don’t want to leave it until the task seems too huge and exhausting. Clearing out decades of possessions and memories is a massive undertaking and it should ideally be done when you feel able to tackle it and are keen and excited to explore a new chapter in life.
Why Downsize?
Moving from a large family home can be an emotional strain but there are many benefits:
- Releasing capital to spend on travel or hobbies or gift to a younger generation
- Less house maintenance worries associated with a larger house
- Not looking at closed off rooms or even closed off floors within the house
- Enjoying a more manageable garden size
- Cheaper monthly bills
- Being within walking distance or good transport links to Drs, shops, restaurants, social amenities, library etc
- Easier to lock up and leave to spend time visiting or travelling
The cost of downsizing
Of course, moving is also a costly business with stamp duty, estate agent fees, legal bills, mortgage advisor and removals but this should be weighed up against the benefit of having lower monthly bills and more cash to spend. Downsizers also consider the likelihood of a lower inheritance tax bill, if the cash gained from downsizing is spent or gifted within the correct time frame. There is course an emotional cost to waving goodbye to your family house but if you have found an exciting new property and location that better serves your needs then this emotional pull will quickly fade.
Where to move when downsizing?
Many downsizers choose smaller character houses where they can still entertain family and not feel too removed from their previous housing set up. However, many downsizers choose to move to a new build property or an apartment in contemporary gated development with lifts and leisure facilities and these are both great choices.
Popular locations for downsizers in Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire include:
Often found in the Top Ten place to live in the UK, Amersham is a great location for all generations. Many ideal downsizing properties can be found within walking distance of the busy High Street and transport links that include London underground.
This picturesque and historic market town is full of character with plenty of shops and restaurants lining the High Street. Thame has a buzzing social community with much on offer for all generations.
This sought-after riverside town is a favourite with all our clients. Marlow is very attractive and has a real ‘buzz’ to the town. Walks along the riverside are popular with residents and visitors alike.
The combination of being on the bank of the river Thames and at the edge of the Chiltern Hills makes Henley-on-Thames a popular location where residents can enjoy the cosmopolitan town with a wide range of social events on offer.
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.
Twyford:
Easy access to London and a scenic village setting makes Twyford a popular choice for downsizers with plenty of restaurants, cafés and independent shops to enjoy too.
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
