Retirees request more bungalows please!
Our new survey(1) reveals that more than 9 million older people (72%) want more retirement bungalows to be built and nearly 5 million older people (38%) would like to move to a retirement bungalow.
- 58% of respondents say the main appeal of retirement bungalows is being on one storey
- One third think bungalows will future proof their move
- 48% believe a bungalow is easier to maintain
- 41% said a bungalow would help them to keep their independence
However, there are just 2.5 million bungalows(2) in the UK and the rate new bungalows are being built is falling.
Trends show fewer bungalows are being built
Despite demand, NHBC figures(3) show that just 1% of new home registrations for 2023 were retirement bungalows (1,476), down 47% (2,807) from 2022 and 84% from 2000, when 9,347 bungalows were built(3). The latest data from the NHBC shows that the downward trend has continued into 2024.
McCarthy Stone CEO, John Tonkiss, says, “retirement bungalows are perfect for older people and demand is booming as the population ages. Bungalows help retirees live independently and safely, connected in their community.
“Increasing bungalow supply along with other forms of housing for older people must be a priority for Government to stem years of declining provision, particularly as Ministers are currently reviewing national planning policy. As well as helping keep older people independent for longer, it would reduce pressures on the NHS and release larger family-sized homes that younger people could move into.”
McCarthy Stone is building more retirement bungalows for sale
We currently manage 15 retirement villages with 300 retirement bungalows either for sale or currently being lived in. This includes the Old Market Village in Wimborne, Dorset which won ‘Best Retirement Scheme’ at the 2024 Housebuilder Awards, and a new retirement village with bungalows coming soon to Petersfield, Hampshire. We currently have plans for a further ten retirement villages which will mean another 300 retirement bungalows for sale across the country.
Meet new bungalow owners Julia and Graham
Julia and Graham moved quickly to reserve their new three-bed chalet bungalow at The Old Market Village in Wimborne off-plan earlier this year.
Julia, 72, says, “In making the decision to downsize, securing the right type of home was very important to us. Graham is a model railway enthusiast and musician so despite downsizing from a four-bed property, we knew we’d still need some space. We’re going to turn one of the bedrooms into a hobby room which will house his extensive train set, along with his electric piano. Meanwhile, I love cooking – and while we might not be throwing any more dinner parties thanks to the convenience of the onsite bistro, I am looking forward to rustling up some delicious meals to enjoy on our south-facing patio.
“For us, a move to The Old Market Village made total sense; we could stay living in the area that we love and be part of a ready-made, secure retirement community, while also enjoying an easy walk on the flat into town was an added bonus.”
Graham, 82, adds: “We love travelling, and like the idea of treating our new home as a lock up and leave, without the usual worry and hassle – it’s great as we know people will be on site to keep an eye on things. However, without family nearby, it’s also reassuring that we’ll have that added sense of security should something go wrong or if help is needed.”
Find retirement bungalows for sale near you
Learn more our retirement bungalows for sale near you, call our friendly team on 0800 201 4811 or contact us online for more information.
(1)McCarthy Stone data H2 2024, based on a survey of 1,000 older people aged 65+ in September 2024 by A to G Growth Consultancy. Population statistics worked out using over 65 population data www.statista.com/statistics/734726/uk-population-by-age-group/, noting over 65s total 12,900,000 people.
(2) www.gov.uk/government/statistics/council-tax-stock-of-properties-2021/council-tax-stock-of-properties-statistical-summary
(3) Figures supplied by NHBC.
