Being happy in later life means planning ahead and renting in a retirement development where you won’t feel lonely or isolated
Jean Harrington, who is 74 years old, has lived in Clacton-on-Sea for over 20 years. When she sold her flat two years ago and found she couldn’t afford to buy another property, she decided to rent in a retirement development instead. And hasn’t looked back.
Clacton-on-Sea in Essex is a popular retirement destination for people who enjoy a traditional seaside atmosphere. Jean was keen to stay local.
She researched properties in the area and came across a one-bedroom apartment at a Girlings property which suited her needs perfectly.
The majority of apartments at Havenvale, as with most Girlings properties, are rented on an assured tenancy meaning people can stay as long as they wish.
Jean commented: “Finding this property meant I could continue living in Clacton where I have enjoyed living for many years. I can afford to live here comfortably and the fact that I can stay as long as I want was one of the key attractions.”
The Havenvale development is in the centre of the seaside town and ideal for accessing a range of amenities including local shops, a supermarket, the pharmacy and doctor’s surgery and post office. The development is also close to the station and has a good local bus service to surrounding districts.
[pullquote1 quotes=”true” align=”right” variation=”purple”]Having people around me with whom I can do activities is important since I’m on my own.[/pullquote1]
The rent includes services and property maintenance so people don’t have to worry about the cost and upkeep of a property and its surroundings.
Managing her finances is really important to Jean. She said: “I need to know what my outgoings are each month to budget more easily. As I’m on a limited budget, so renting is a great option for me, and I don’t need to worry about extra costs that might crop up, as I would if I owned my home.”
Jean has been living on her own since her husband died and has often felt lonely. However, since moving to the apartment she has made friends, takes part in social activities and is no longer lonely.
“The other residents at Havenvale are really friendly and I play bingo twice a week with them. I also go on some of the outings, which are always good fun. Having people around me with whom I can do activities is important since I’m on my own. There is always someone around to have a chat with over a cup of tea,” she concluded.
Girlings Retirement Rentals is a family-run company which deals exclusively with renting private retirement property to the 55+ market throughout the UK. They have over 2,500 properties in 600 developments from seaside apartments to rural retreats.
Visit www.girlings.co.uk or call on 0800 525 184 to find out what properties are available in your preferred area.
