retirement property

[solly33]

I am seriously thinking of buying a retirement flat.Any advice out there re what to look out for and what to avoid.I've heard all the warning's/jokes about the old being deaf so expect the surrounding flats to have loud t.v's !! I haven't been too well lately and now realise how nice it would have been to have had a 'warden' to pick up my prescriptions.My chemist is a mile walk away. I'm quite active for 75 yrs.but feel things are not working a lot quicker than they used too. Very grateful for any tips from you all. Thanks and God Bless

[Ethel]

Regarding your prescriptions, many chemists will collect and deliver for no charge.
However, that is only one of many things.

There would be no harm in having a look at suitable flats to see what you think. If they are new build they will have a very high standard and insulation and sound proofing.

Make sure you read the rules and regulations, the terms and conditions, very carefully. You don't want to be dictated to. And watch out for the 'service charges'.

[solly33]

Thanks Ethel, The 'local' chemist will pick up prescription from Doctor's but wont deliver, shame. As for rules etc. in these retirement flats I think I will probably like the rules as I live a fairly quite life and am not a mixer.Not keen on animals either and I believe that you are allowed to take a cat or dog IF you already have one,but once it dies you are not allowed to replace, so it would be good if there is someone there to make sure people dont replace animals, and keep the noise down.(Dont I sound a misery,but I'm not..quite the opposite) What'sthe position with regard to selling the flat?although I hope I wont be around to care.Its an if I go into care scenario.

[Ethel]

Now re-selling is something I don't know. Would the prospective buyer have to be approved in some way?

I'm sure they don't all work the same, so look around. There is a retirement village a few miles from me - it is something else. It is a gated community with its own health centre, IT room, gym, swimming pool, badminton courts, library...

But far from a proper established local town or village. Not for me.

Sorry, I'm rambling. Just take your time and make sure you are buying the right flat for YOU - not what other people think.

[solly33]

I will certainly take my time and double check everything.I rushed into buying this house 3 months ago and cannot wait to move out,but I know it makes sense to at least stay here for one year.That gives me time to give it a good clean and make it look nice. This house has made me realise I need some help sometimes and that's why I am seriously going to make enquiries about retirement flats. Its when you read people's reports on some of the well known builders of these type flats that worry me a bit. I'm also thinking maybe sell up and just rent somewhere.That way I would have a few shillings in the bank but How would I get on with Capital gains tax. I already pay tax on my firm's pension and apart from this ordinary house I dont have any other savings to speak of.

[buildersmate]

Watching out for the service charges is a very serious issue. The best sort are the ones where the residents have some control over the management of the maintenance. I don't mean they do any of it, but they have control over the company that does it.
That well known developer of retirement homes (the one that sounds like an Irish rock) I think you will find always, always controls the maintenance - that's how they make their money.

[Ethel]

You will not pay capital gains tax by selling your home, assuming you don't own other properties.

I personally think renting in later years makes good sense - provided you exercise as much care as if you were buying.

The lump sum in your bank account will generate a nice income for you - although taxable, of course.

Other people may disagree. It is a huge decision, and I am pleased to see you are aware of all the pitfalls, and you are taking your time.

[solly33]

Thanks for your advice Buildersmate. That 'Irish' company !!you mentioned is being taken over so it will be interesting to watch the outcome of that in the future.As for your advice Ethel I will give it some serious thought.I feel I have found a real friend in you....thanks.I keep thinking of the saying A BIRD IN THE HAND...well maybe the money in the bank is the best bet.