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Hear from our residents

Making the decision to leave a family home and downsize to a home in a retirement village is often a process that requires much thought and consideration.

With this in mind, we spoke to residents across a number of our 16 villages and asked them to share advice about their experiences of moving to, and living in, a retirement village.

‘The lock up and leave element affords you so much freedom’

Keen traveller, Mr Cook, a resident at Avonpark Village in Wiltshire is still exploring the world at the age of 92. It is the ‘lock up and leave’ nature of the village that allows him to continue to enjoy travelling – while he is away, he is confident his property is secured and being monitored and maintained.

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‘It brings family closer together’

The Jameson’s moved to Castle Village in Hertfordshire, six months after attending an open day event, although they had previously seen the village online. Having moved closer to family, their grandchildren visit frequently, coming for dinner or using their home as a quiet spot to revise. Mr and Mrs Jameson also make use of the onsite guest facilities, inviting family and friends to stay overnight regularly.

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‘It offers the best of both worlds’

Marion Walter moved to Elmbridge Village after living in Wimbledon for 25 years. Fiercely independent, one of Marion’s most valued elements of life at a retirement village is that she can continue to lead her own life and have time to herself, but also live in a safe community of like-minded people, in a beautiful setting.

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‘Keep an open mind’

This sentiment is shared by Maurice and Patricia Green, who live at Lime Tree Village, near Dunchurch, Rugby. The couple comment that as we age, attitudes become more fixed, but there is so much on offer at a retirement village, that you should keep an open mind.

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‘Downsizing can be difficult – but it’s worth it’

Resident at Moat Park in Great Dunmow, Essex, Anne Romaine loves her new apartment, but admits that she found the process of downsizing hard. Anne recalls how she spent time thinking about how she had worked hard her whole life and accumulated possessions, only to get rid of them later on. Now, Anne feels that it was the best decision that she made.

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‘You might miss your garden – but landscaped grounds make up for it’

Roy and Mary Connor enjoy life at Roseland Parc in Tregony, Cornwall. They recall how they loved their garden at their previous home, but soon learned to relax and enjoy the stunning landscaped grounds surrounding their new retirement home, without having to maintain them!

Get in touch today!
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FAQs

I have a complaint – what do I do?
Do you carry out inspections after I’ve moved in?
Inspections may be carried out before refunds of security deposits.
How can I arrange a property viewing?

Get in touch with our friendly sales team.

Can I smoke in my property?
No.
Can I make alterations to my home?
Yes, with land lord approval on rentals.
Are pets allowed at all the villages?
We welcome careful and considerate pet owners and their pets as they are part of your family. We ask that pets are always well looked after, kept under control, not allowed to cause a nuisance to other residents, staff or guests and all waste must be disposed of properly. Where dogs are allowed in communal areas they must be always kept on a lead. Unfortunately, if the pet does cause constant issues the Village Manager may ask that the pet be removed from the Village for the safety of other residents, staff, guest or even for the pets own wellbeing.
Where can I get village recommendations?
Be in touch with our sales team.
What is life like at Retirement Villages?
Life at Retirement Villages is designed to promote independence, flexibility, and freedom in later life. Residents maintain their own homes, with the option to personalise their living spaces, including bringing beloved pets. The communities foster quality friendships among neighbours within an active and caring environment. A busy social calendar of events, designed by residents for residents, offers numerous opportunities for engagement. Excellent onsite facilities, such as shops, restaurants, hair salons, and communal areas, are maintained by a dedicated team, ensuring convenience and well-being. The secure community setting provides peace of mind, allowing residents the freedom to lock up and leave as they wish.
Is there parking at all the retirement communities?
Yes but there are different terms for each villages, the key facts on the property section of each village should be viewed.
How can I arrange a visit to a village?
Be in touch with the sales team, book an open day or join marketing list.
Will my home be looked after if I am away?
The benefit of the security in a retirement community is that your home is always safe. So for anyone looking to spend their retirement travelling, know you can lock up and leave your property without a worry.
Is there anywhere for my friends and family to stay when they visit me?
Most villages have guest suites.
Can my friends and family use the facilities?
Yes, guests can visit and stay in properties for up to 28 days.
Can I use facilities of other Retirement Villages communities?
This will be at the general managers discretion, so is best to check.
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