Retirement property options for parents | Meet Pauline and Stacey
Considering retirement property options for parents can feel like a big responsibility. At Burnham Waters, we often speak with families who want to make the right decision — one that supports independence, well-being and peace of mind, both now and for the years ahead.
Having met with so many buyers – and their families, we understand that there are lots of options to consider, lots of questions to be asked and that this decision requires time and patience. Our friendly sales team is always on hand, and we welcome purchasers to come back as many times as they like, so they can get a real feel not only for the homes we have on offer here, but the community, which we are building too.
One family, who were looking at retirement property options were Pauline (now a resident here at Burnham Waters) and her daughter Stacey. Pauline has now moved in and is settled in her new retirement bungalow here at Burnham Waters. She shares her experience with us:
Pauline: “You get to the stage in your house where you think, “It’s time to move now.” Stacey found Burnham Waters when it was just launched…I was so ready to move that I just wanted to get over there straight away.”
Talking of her mum’s home buying journey, Stacey adds: “ When I found it, the development hadn’t been started. We drove up here, as we’d never even heard of Burnham-on-Crouch or been around the area.
“Mum always wanted to live by the water. We drove up and she loved it...Now she’s only 40 minutes away. As soon as they had the first show home set up, Mum put down a deposit. We love Burnham - we came up every few months, even before Mum had moved in, just to get to know the area.”
Useful tips when exploring retirement property options for parents
If you are currently looking at retirement property options for parents, we have compiled some useful tips and advice, to support you in your search.
1. Start with open, honest conversations
Whenever possible, begin talking about retirement living early. Take the time to understand your parents’ hopes, concerns and expectations – this can help to ensure that any decision feels positive and collaborative, rather than rushed.
2. Think about lifestyle as well as support
Retirement is about enjoying life, not just planning for care. A welcoming environment, opportunities to socialise, beautiful surroundings and access to activities can make a meaningful difference to everyday happiness.
Retirement villages such as Burnham Waters can offer residents the best of both worlds. They offer the privacy and independence of still owning their own home, a thriving community on the doorstep with lifestyle facilities all close to hand – PLUS the option of additional care and support packages, as and when they may be required.
Explore the retirement bungalows on offer at Burnham Waters here.
Explore the lifestyle facilities at Burnham Waters here.
Explore the village amenities on offer at Burnham Waters here.
3. Understand the range of retirement options available for parents
Retirement living in the UK includes a variety of choices - from remaining at home with support, to care homes and retirement villages. Understanding these options can help you identify a setting that matches your parents’ needs today, while remaining flexible for the future.
4. Plan with the long term in mind
Needs can change over time. Choosing a retirement community that allows residents to live independently while offering access to additional support can provide reassurance and continuity, avoiding the need for further moves later on.
At Burnham Waters, we offer a variety of care packages, which can be tailored to suit individual needs and we have plans for an on-site surgery, to be delivered as part of a future phase.
There is also the option to have Nobi installed in your home. Nobi is a fall detection system providing an excellent way for vulnerable residents to feel safe in their homes. Nobi can monitor movement and will send an alert if someone has fallen so our care providers or family members can quickly assist.
5. Location and connection matter
Being part of a community can help your parents feel settled and connected. You will often find that retirement villages, such as Burnham Waters, offer their residents access to a thriving and supportive community of new, like-minded people - making it easier to get to know new neighbours and make new friends.
6. Be clear about costs
Whatever retirement property options you are considering, it’s important to understand what’s included, how fees are structured and what additional services may cost (if applicable) in the future. Clear information can help you plan with confidence and avoid surprises.
7. Visit together
Visiting in person can be invaluable. Spending time in a community, meeting the team and getting a feel for daily life often brings clarity that no brochure can provide. At Burnham Waters we encourage our customers to re-visit as many times as they like, to spend as long as they like and to bring with them family and close friends – as we know their opinion really matters.
8. Trust how it feels
Beyond facilities and features, trust your instincts. A friendly atmosphere, relaxed residents and a genuine sense of belonging are often the clearest signs of a place where people truly feel at home.
We’re always happy to help
If you’re starting to explore retirement options for your parents, the team at Burnham Waters would be delighted to answer your questions, share advice or welcome you for a relaxed visit. Sometimes, a simple conversation is the best place to begin.
Our sales and marketing suite is open daily, 10am – 3pm and we have show homes available to view. Interested purchasers are welcome to book an appointment with our sales team or simply turn up and explore all that is on offer.
In fact, we have just launched our new ‘Walk-in Wednesdays’.
These sessions run between 10am and 2pm every Wednesday. They are designed to offer an informal, opportunity to simply drop in (or walk-in!) for a visit, with no appointment needed.
All of the show homes will be open for visitors to view at their leisure. Our sales and marketing suite will be open with tea and biscuits on offer for anyone who wants to call in and find out a bit more about the development – and possibly even meet a few of the neighbours!
For more information about Burnham Waters, our new retirement bungalows and all that is on offer in our retirement village, simply reach out via email at info@burnhamwaters.co.uk, complete our enquiry form or call our friendly sales team on 01621 861559. You can also download a copy of our brochure here.
