The pros and cons of houses, apartments, and retirement villages
There’s really no feeling quite like being retired. The kids have left home… the alarm clock has been permanently turned off… and your schedule is free (or as free as you want it to be).
It’s no wonder many people think of retirement as the best time of their lives. Yet it’s true that retirement is also a time of change. Suddenly, the family home that was full of noise, chatter and laughter might start to feel all too big. You may find yourself thinking that you have too much space.
Is a home, apartment or retirement village best?
Retirement is a new chapter in your life – the chance to try something different and exciting. That’s why many retirees look at downsizing from the family home to free up some money and space is a popular way for many retirees to start this chapter.
House
- Practically unlimited storage space
- A private backyard
- You can choose to renovate, install a pool, or more
- You won’t be pushed out unexpectedly by a landlord
- Pets are definitely allowed!
Apartment
- It’s easy to lock up and go away on holiday
- 24/7 security for peace-of-mind
- On-site amenities such as a gym, sauna, or pool
- There’s no long-term commitment
Retirement community
- Also easy to lock up and go away on holiday
- Peace-of-mind from 24/7 security
- Living in a community of like-minded individuals
- There are usually healthcare, lifestyle services, amenities, recreation and entertainment available or close by
How do you begin downsizing your home after retirement?
To get the most from your retirement years, you might think about downsizing into a smaller home to minimise costs and increase quality of life. Retirement villages open up a totally new living experience that takes care of many aspects of home maintenance and offer you a way to meet new friends.
Of course, working out what type of home you’d like to live in once you’ve retired depends on non-financial factors as well. Talk to your husband, wife, or partner and have a clear idea about what type of life you want together, before you decide on the style of home you plan to downsize into.
It can be a good idea to categorise your possessions into three categories:
- Keep
- Sell or give away, and
- Throw away.
Pro tip: Don’t make the mistake of giving away essentials such as cleaning products, shower curtains and towels. You’re sure to need these items in your new home on day one.
Take a good look at the floor plan of your new home and be realistic about the amount of furniture and items that will fit in each room. Take your time and choose just the most functional and special pieces you will still use.
Find out why people fall in love with our retirement villages
Kensington Gardens Retirement Villages at Albury and Shepparton provide a luxurious, secure, resort lifestyle for over 55’s who want to enjoy life!
You’ll love spending time relaxing, entertaining, or making new friends in your spacious, architect-designed home with beautiful modern features. Our resort-style facilities will make you feel like you’re on holidays every day, especially when you see our stunning private Residents’ Clubhouse.
Arrange your safe, socially distanced tour by calling Kensington Gardens at Albury on 02 6049 3100 or Shepparton on 03 5820 5100 today or get in touch online to book a time to come in and visit us.
