The demographics of retirement living is changing.

Historically, it used to be widowhood that was the trigger in buying a retirement home.

More recently, reports show that new buyers of retirement homes tend to be couples as well as singles.

Making the decision to move is just the first step. One partner may decide that they are not ready to move or that they do not wish to move into a new area or a ‘retirement home’ or they could be just in a disagreement to move altogether.

While its usually the best decision to move, its easy to find reasons to delay the move. The best thing a couple can do is is to keep an open mind and actually search around for homes to look at. Don’t just sit in your armchair looking for places on the internet (although this would be your starting point), the best thing to do is to actually get out there and look for yourself. Get a feel for the area and the feel of the property itself.

Sometimes, the case is that the eldest partner would usually take the driving seat and start looking around for their partner especially if they have become ill. They are being practical and looking for a home where they can take the hassle out of looking after their existing home without help to a home where there partner will be looked after and settled for the long term if they die.

The word ‘community’ can be very off putting especially for the self-reliant type. In retirement, you generally have more hours in the day for leisurely activities. Being part of a ‘community’ with similar hobbies and interests can be a positive thing. That’s why being part of a community within a retirement home can be so rewarding. Ask the other neighbours what their likes and dislikes are. You may find you have very similar interests. Reach out to your potential neighbours and reap the benefits, you may have the same views on life itself and enjoy each others company. It is essential that you ensure both partners will be happily settled in your new environment.

One of the biggest issues with moving to a retirement home is that the housing can sometimes be a little small, however, times are changing! Property developers are starting to build much larger homes as traditional family homes tend to be a bit small. You must make sure before viewing that the property is of good size especially if your partner is reluctant to move to a smaller home.

Don’t pay too much attention to the number of rooms that are in the property. Instead, look at the measurements. Most retirement properties have less bedroom space but more room in the property to move around in. The most important thing about investing in a retirement home is that you and your partner are not on top of each other. Space in retirement is VITAL!

Moving from your family home to an apartment can be daunting. Especially if one of you are used to having your own space. In retirement, this becomes the most important issue out of all of them. Keep a look out for retirement properties that you can both make good use out of the space. Either by being the flexible one or making use out of the landing space to accommodate your study? Think outside the box…

The gardens within retirement homes can often be small and compact. So if outside space is important to you, make sure you look for retirement homes that have large communal grounds. The benefits of sharing a communal garden is that they will be frequently maintained and you wont have to do the hard graft! Communal space gives owners the chance to socialise with other retirement home owners too. Some retirement homes also have allotment space available too if you like to keep busy outside.

The key to a successful retirement home purchase, is that both partners are in agreement and that both partners have facilities available near by that can be easily accessed such as a golf course, good walks and local pubs. Neither partners should feel that they have to sacrifice things in order to move to a retirement home. Compromise is another key to a successful retirement home. The most important thing as that you both agree to a home that suits both lifestyles that you will want to enjoy.

Happy Retirement House Hunting!