Market leaders in retirement rentals

AN INCREASING number of retirees are choosing to rent over buying in the UK, with current figures predicted to double and reach nine million by 2022, according to Scottish Widows. 

Market leaders in retirement living rentals, Birchgrove, offer retirees a stress free, more flexible alternative for those looking to avoid the hassle of buying a new property and the hefty costs involved. 

“Our son had offered to look into assisted living we could buy,” says Maureen Blake, 83, who moved into Birchgrove in May. “But we just didn’t want to have to sign all these papers and go through the purchasing process again at our age. We just felt renting was the right option for us.” 

Contracts at Birchgrove are all “assured tenancies,” meaning residents can enjoy the same level of security as home ownership, with added flexibility: they can stay in their home for as long as they wish, and should the need to move arise, they need only give two months’ notice. 

Residents live in apartments that are specifically designed for their changing needs, with waist high appliances throughout, modern bathrooms with en-suite walk-in showers and simple to use switches, taps and plugs. 

In addition, there is a discreet 24-hour emergency call service for immediate assistance if needed. 

Residents receive one hour’s domestic support each week, meaning a member of the team can help with chores such as cleaning, cooking, shopping or doing the ironing. An onsite courtesy car service is also available to help them retain their independence. 

For the potential scenario of a resident needing extra care or support, Birchgrove has teamed up with homecare specialist providers to offer tailored, onsite, care solutions, giving residents peace of mind that their home can easily adapt should their support requirements change. 

Rental fees are inclusive of utility costs such as heating, electricity and water, but also window cleaning, the maintenance of appliances, and the upkeep of the beautiful apartments and communal areas and gardens, meaning residents face no unexpected costs and can plan their budgets confidently. 

Birchgrove retirement communities have exclusive access to a myriad of onsite amenities such as a restaurant, club room, library, wellbeing and fitness studio, communal gardens and greenhouse with plots to grow vegetables. Events and hobby groups are also regularly organised to promote the community spirit. 

For more information, please visit www.birchgrove.life or contact the team on 020 3929 5599.