Your guide to buying a retirement home

McCarthy Stone explains the benefits of buying a retirement home and answers questions like, can you get a mortgage? Read more.

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Property advice
Posted 24 April 2024
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We’re here to make sure buying a retirement property is right for you

Buying a retirement home will always be a huge, often daunting, decision but the benefits are more than worth it, with many of our customers wishing they’d made the move sooner. From the rigours of selling a family home to the emotional wrench, we understand the challenges you’re going through and our helpful teams are here to support you in every way we can. Read about how our sales consultants can help with everything from selling your home to moving in.

What is a retirement property? 

A ‘retirement property’ is a home that has been specifically designed for the over 60s. At McCarthy Stone, our retirement properties vary, from apartments and bungalows to coach houses and cottages. They also offer a sociable community on your doorstep with differing benefits and amenities to enable you to have a fulfilling, sociable and relaxing retirement. Read more about ‘what is a retirement property?’

An example of a spacious, modern living room to highlight the ergonomic design of our retirement bungalows

Types of retirement properties 

McCarthy Stone offers a variety of types of retirement properties for sale to suit different preferences and requirements:

We also offer two types of developments with different levels of services and amenities.  

Can you get a mortgage on a retirement property? 

Yes, you can get a mortgage on a retirement property including a McCarthy Stone home. Many mortgage providers offer specialist products and our sales consultants can support you if you have any questions.  

What is a retirement mortgage? 

A retirement mortgage is one that is offered to people over 60 or has a term that will take you past the age that you can claim the state pension. Types of retirement mortgage include fixed-rate and repayment mortgages as well as equity release and Retirement Interest Only (RIO) mortgages. The type of mortgage you are eligible for will depend on your personal financial circumstances. If you continue to work past the traditional retirement age this could increase your options. 

Five benefits of buying a retirement home 

While renting a retirement property suits some, there are many benefits to buying a retirement home. 

1. It’s your home 

Owning a property provides stability, security and a tangible asset. For many people there’s a huge sense of personal pride in owning their own home too.

a living room with a table and chairs

2. You can make it your own 

If you own your own home then you are free to decorate it in any way you please. Our homeowners, like Ann Carrol, love bringing their creativity to their retirement properties using colours and furnishing that reflect their personality. Read inspiration from our interior designers.

3. Affordable options for all 

Initiatives like Shared Ownership and Part Buy, Part Rent give our homeowners financial flexibility while retaining homeownership.

4. Support for an easier move   

From Part Exchange to our Smooth Move package—which includes financial help with estate agent and legal fees as well as free removals, packing and unpacking— we are here to support you at every stage of buying a retirement home.

5. It’s an asset  

When the time comes to sell your retirement home, our in-house Resales team achieves an average net price increase on resold homes— with a 7% average increase for properties bought new in the last three years and since resold*. Find answers to your resales questions.

Did you know? You can buy a retirement home for someone else.

Buying a retirement home is simpler with McCarthy Stone 

Whether you’ve just turned 60 or are already getting telegrams from the King, our lovely properties in stunning locations are thoughtfully designed so you can make the most of your retirement—and you’ll have a lively community of new neighbours on the doorstep too. Whatever your circumstances or worries, we are here to help make sure the move is as easy as possible. 

It’s a good move, so why wait? Search for a retirement home near you today, get in touch online or call our team on 0800 201 4811 to talk to a friendly sales consultant about your needs.

*Figure applicable to properties bought new in the 3 years to November 2023 and since resold.
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