Get the off-plan advantage

Your first step is to go to the ‘send me updates’ link on the right hand side of your chosen retirement development page and fill in the contact form. This means you will be kept informed about the progress of the build, timings and all significant stages including news about when properties are available to buy or rent off-plan. Alternatively give our team a call on 0800 201 4811.

Each development has a dedicated consultant, who is an expert in the local area as well as the specific site features and services. Friendly and approachable, they are here to help you make the right choice for you. With your agreement, they will be in touch to arrange a chat about the properties. Here they will talk you through all the details, sharing images, floorplans, videos and samples. 

As well as lifestyle and services, your consultant will be able to advise you on all the practical things too – like whether you want to buy outright or rent, for instance. They will also take you through affordability checks – you can also access our free entitlements advice service to ensure you are getting all the money you are eligible for in your retirement. 

Here’s a few to consider:

• What is included in the property price? Usually in a McCarthy & Stone property you can expect carpets, a fitted kitchen with oven and hob and full height fridge freezer to be included as a minimum, but be sure to ask for specific details.
• What communal facilities and services are planned? This will depend on whether this is a Retirement Living or Retirement Living Plus development, but also varies by individual community.
• What is included in the service charge – and how much will it be? Again this will depend on whether this is a Retirement Living or Retirement Living Plus development, but your consultant will be able to give you the full picture. You can find more information about service charges here.
• When will I be able to see finished properties? You will be invited to visit the show complex as soon as it is open. You’ll also be invited to visit comparable developments. Ask your consultant for details.
• When will the development be finished and what happens if it is delayed? Usually a site is finished around six months after properties start to be sold off-plan but you will be kept fully informed of progress.

Your consultant will give you options to visit similar retirement developments and meet homeowners and employees. You’ll also be invited to the sales launch events where you will be given the opportunity to reserve properties off-plan. You can find a list of all of our upcoming development events here.

You can secure your off-plan property for a small deposit. This is usually £1,000 if you are buying and £500 if you are renting, although there are variations in Wales and Scotland

If you’re putting a property on the market, your consultant can help you find estate agents, and take you through the process. They can even recommend a solicitor to look after the legal side. Ask about Part Exchange if you are looking for a hassle-free house sale.

Your consultant will keep your fully informed throughout the process so you have plenty of time to prepare for moving in. With our Smooth Move service, our specialist removals partners can help you declutter, pack, transport your possessions and unpack them. We can even help you with things like putting up shelves and pictures, so you can get on with enjoying life in your new home.