Seven ways to future proof your home so there’s no need to downsize
You have probably planned your finances for retirement, but have you future-proofed your home? Many people feel forced into downsizing their houses that are now too big or unsuitable, once full of life and now an empty nest.
That is the case for Hilary Flatman. She is selling her beautiful farmhouse near Faversham, Kent, in order to move somewhere that suits her and her husband, who are in their 70s, for the future. “Being here has been like living in paradise,” says Flatman, whose five-bedroom property is currently under offer with Strutt & Parker. “Yet this is a house for a big life – three of our children got married here – and we’re now at a different stage.”
The Flatmans plan to stay in the area and would like a barn conversion that has easy access – not only for old age but also for their son, Christian 33 who has Downs Syndrome and uses a wheelchair. “I’d like to be somewhere simple but stylish, with plenty of natural materials,” Flatman adds.
With a bit of foresight and some difficult decision making, it’s possible to create a home that will grow with you as you age. Living in a future-proof property doesn’t mean you have to compromise on good looks – far from it. And in many cases, you don’t even have to move house.
Here are a few top tips to create your forever home:
Adapt what you have
Consider how your home will work as your needs change in years to come, without compromising on your current lifestyle. “It is sensible to have a flexible downstairs space that can be used as an additional reception room at present, but can be easily converted to a bedroom when climbing stairs become difficult”, says Carol Peett of West Wales Property Finders http://www.westwalespropertyfinders.co.uk.
“If your property has a suitable garage or outbuilding, you could convert this into an annexe which could be let out now and turned into accommodation for help down the line”…….
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/property/retirement/seven-ways-future-proof-home-no-need-downsize/ – Saturday, 29th February 2020
If you are looking to move to Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire or Ceredigion, or buy a property here, give West Wales Property Finders a call on 01834 862816. We can find the perfect property for you whilst saving you time, stress and often money to
