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Merseyside Housebuilder
Pledges to Help Retirees Move for Free To Encourage Downsizing
MERSEYSIDE retirees want to downsize
from their large family homes and release valuable equity, but feel unable to do
so in the current market, according to a recent report. The research, conducted
by McCarthy and Stone, shows that 30% of homeowners in the North West region
over the age of 55, are considering or expect to consider downsizing but a lack
of suitable housing options is preventing them from moving.
The research highlights that in the North West region, 28% expect to release
more than £100,000 in equity when downsizing, but there is currently little
incentive or choice available to help them make the move. Added to this,
concerns over costs associated with moving home, such as stamp duty fees,
removal costs, estate agents and legal fees, mean many are not taking advantage
of the downsizing opportunity.
To overcome these barriers and help retirees realise the benefits of downsizing,
the North West region of McCarthy and Stone, which is set to deliver 600 new
purpose built retirement homes in the North West over the next 18 months, is
launching its 'Move For Free' limited time offer.
The Merseyside retirement housebuilder is offering to pay stamp duty on all new
reservations for single bedroom apartments between now and 31 July 2016, on its latest
site, Brunlees Court in Southport. The incentive will see stamp duty costs
deducted from the price of an apartment at the point of completion, saving
retirees thousands of pounds when downsizing. In addition, hefty estate agent
fees which can also be off putting when making the decision to downsize will be
covered up to the value of £12,000, as well as removal costs and any legal fees
not exceeding £2,000+.
Other offers are available for 2 bedroom apartments, which can be found on the
McCarthy and Stone website. Those interested are urged to check online for more
information on the Summer Offers.
The company hopes this latest scheme will encourage the take up of more
specialist retirement housing in the region, and therefore increase the number
of people downsizing, which will in turn free up under occupied housing for
first time buyers and families and keep things moving for the housing market
more generally. It will also help retirees to make the most of the many
lifestyle benefits of moving to a McCarthy and Stone development. Existing
home owners stress positives such as lower household maintenance, as this is
taken care of by the on site Management team, thus leaving more time to spend
with friends and family. The opportunity for companionship, and to be part of a
thriving community of like minded people, with the independence of having your
own apartment and a range of local amenities right on your doorstep, encourages
an active lifestyle with help and support at hand if needed.
Fiona Brooks, Regional Sales and Marketing Director for McCarthy and Stone North
West, commented:- "We're introducing the 'Move For Free' offer to a key
development in Southport on apartments with one bedroom, to alleviate some of
the financial barriers preventing older people from moving, while encouraging
retirees who are perhaps thinking about their future health and social care
needs and how they will pay for this support, to proactively consider the
different housing options and lifestyle benefits available to them in later
life. It is essential that we have the right infrastructure and services in
place to cater for the specific needs and requirements of our ageing population,
and this includes the provision of retirement housing and housing with care that
keeps people healthier, happier and active for longer. By helping retirees to
overcome some of the financial barriers to downsizing, this will enable them to
realise the proven benefits of moving to a McCarthy and Stone development such
as reduced property maintenance, comfort and security, releasing equity, and
improved physical wellbeing as a result of greater independence whilst being
part of community of like minded people."
For more information on the Move For Free offer and the sites McCarthy and Stone
currently has under construction in the North West, please visit their
website. |
