Life keeps evolving, even at sixty, and dreams live on, especially at sixty-six. Retirement is a time for rest, but not for resignation from life. It is a time to live the dream, which, for many, features a home in the country with roses by the door. But retirement is also about sensible living arrangements that enhance a relaxed lifestyle. Not many have discussed the benefits of living in a new build development for retirees. After all, it is a mini-community that reinforces safety, a sense of belonging, and companionship. So, today, we will discover all the ways a residential development uplifts your retirement.
Community and companionship
One of the most significant advantages of living in a development is social capital. A support network is essential in your twilight years. Unlike a retirement community, a regular housing development has occupants of all ages. That increases the value of your social capital, as each contributes in different ways to your well-being, whether you want a tyre changed or a picture put up.
It also prevents the monotony of life as children and young people add new experiences to life in the neighbourhood. Young families are more likely to throw parties than seniors, and in a close-knit community, all get to mingle and celebrate together, regardless of age. Community spirit can alleviate social isolation in old age. Loneliness is a public health crisis as dangerous to a person’s health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Greater social participation in midlife and late life lowers the risk of dementia by 30–50%.
Minimal maintenance
New homes require little to no repairs. Their brand-new roofs, floors, walls, electrical systems, plumbing, fixtures, and fittings do not require maintenance for years to come. Conversely, older properties can present numerous structural and fixture issues at any moment. Even extensive renovations cannot guarantee immunity from sudden issues due to their old structural frame. New homes built by construction companies in Scotland come with structural warranties like the NHBC Buildmark warranty, which offers protection for 10 years.
Energy savings
New homes are built to the latest environmental standards and energy performance requirements. They have better insulation, which significantly improves thermal performance. It means your home stays warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. Most homes have uPVC windows, which are high performers in energy efficiency and simultaneously draught-proof your home.
New builds come with energy-efficient heating systems and thermostats that maximise energy use. LED lighting is a standard feature. It saves up to 90% of energy. Their longer lifespans prevent the need for frequent bulb replacements. Advanced ventilation systems help maintain indoor air quality while minimising heat loss. These systems recover heat from outgoing air, making your home more energy-efficient. Buying a home with an upper-tier EPC is a long-term investment due to its high resale value.
Opportunities for an active life
Plenty of fresh air, invigorating walks, gardening, fishing, golfing, boating, sailing, picnicking, mushroom foraging, and endless days out exploring castles, breweries, gardens, stately homes, and more are on the cards in country life. Every day in the scenic Scottish countryside is a new opportunity to do something you enjoy. Did you know that exposure to air pollution is a risk factor for dementia?
Staying active in retirement keeps you healthy. Government guidelines recommend that older adults do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week and strengthening exercises twice a week. Leisure activities are also associated with a lower risk of dementia. Surrounding yourself with natural scenery and immersing yourself in nature can provide mental stimulation that minimises the risk of Dementia, Alzheimer’s, and cognitive impairment.
The countryside is also a low-stress environment. Lower stress levels contribute to overall well-being and mental health.
Financial help
The Scottish Government’s New Supply Shared Equity (NSSE) scheme offers financial assistance to buy new build homes in a housing development. You will have to pay 60% and 80% of the home’s cost, and the Scottish Government will hold the remaining share under a ‘shared equity agreement’ it will enter with you. For those over 60, the minimum equity of the cost you need to pay will change depending on individual circumstances. Those over 60 do not have to take out a mortgage. Instead, you can pay using the proceeds from selling your existing home or savings.
Sense of security
Being surrounded by a homogeneous group of neighbours can also bring a sense of security and peace of mind. Such neighbourhoods are almost always free from crime and burglary. They also have neighbourhood watch schemes that add an extra layer of protection and vigilance. You can rely on neighbourly assistance in emergencies. Developments are often in prime locations, which makes it easier for emergency services to reach you quickly.
Property development carried out by construction companies in Scotland utilises town planning methods to design neighbourhoods. It means they consider visibility, privacy, illumination, and other factors that increase safety.
Favourable property trends
According to the quarterly Scottish housing market review for 2023, the average new build property price increased by an annual 11.8%, higher than the increase on the average existing build price of 4.6%. Buying a new build in a coveted location has high returns on investment. These yield better prices at resale. We are looking at a property market geared towards energy efficiency and sustainability, two necessary features for modern housing. Therefore, property investments must always take these factors into account. Although retrofitting can improve an existing build’s energy efficiency and sustainability, nobody wants to spend their retirement carrying out costly and lengthy renovations.
Conclusion
Many overlook property developments when searching for a retirement home. However, their advantages far exceed the romance of thatched cottages. Retirement can be the best years of your life. Some wait their whole lives to do things they have been waiting a lifetime to do. GS Brown developments in Scotland offer you the chance to live in the most stunning locations in the country, well-linked and conveniently placed for travel. Our homes meet high energy efficiency and sustainability standards. Built to last, crafted with modern specifications, and designed for elegance, they are worthy investments with a high return. Where in Scotland would you like to spend your retirement?
