"You're never too old for a new start" - new resident Fred Smith is thriving at Mickle Hill

“If we hadn’t taken advantage of the Home Exchange, my father would still live in his bungalow.” – Jez Smith

Jez Smith was looking for a suitable retirement property for his 83-year old father; Fred Smith who had been living in his bungalow in Barnsley for the past 23 years. Jez and his wife discovered Mickle Hill, the retirement village in Pickering, and found it to offer attractive properties and lifestyle choices that Fred would enjoy.

Jez remembers: “My wife and I own a holiday home near Pickering and always loved the area. One day we came across Mickle Hill and my wife suggested that it would be a great option for my father who, since my mother passed away, had been living alone. Due to the occasional fall, I was worried about my dad and wanted to ensure that help is to hand when he needs it.”

After viewing the properties and onsite amenities, it was decided that a one-bedroom apartment would be the best option for Fred.

Jez continues: “We were keen for the move to take place sooner rather than later and the idea of putting my dad’s property on the market via an estate agent seemed like a lengthy process. We learned that Rangeford Villages offers a Home Exchange incentive, which was a perfect option for us.

“I’m glad we took advantage of this and avoided getting caught up in the property chain. If we hadn’t used the Home Exchange, my father would still live in his bungalow now, not being able to downsize, as his old property is still on the market and hasn’t received many viewings.”

Fred was able to move into his new apartment in December 2022. He says: “My story shows that you’re never too old for a new start. Downsizing made me realise that I had way too much stuff in my bungalow that I really didn’t need anymore. Living here is also very sociable and although there are quite a few widows and widower, nobody ever feels really lonely.”

Rangeford paid Fred’s Stamp Duty, paid for new fitted wardrobes worth £2,000 and provided an additional £1,500 to finance the move. Lastly, it was agreed that Fred is exempt from paying Mickle Hill’s service fees for the first 7 months.

About Rangeford Village’s Home Exchange incentive

Once a buyer has selected a new Rangeford Village home, the team will refer the buyer to a trusted third-party partner who will arrange for two independent valuations of the buyer’s current property. The property must meet current mortgage lending rules and pass a satisfactory home buyers survey to be eligible for this incentive.

Once a purchase price has been agreed by both parties, the buyer can legally exchange contracts to purchase the chosen Rangeford Village home typically within 45 days of instructing Rangeford’s house buying partner.