Retired couple downsize in Brentwood town centre
Joan and Henry Pattle, both 79 and retired, have just moved into their new home at Maple Court in Brentwood, Essex, through Fairview New Homes. Maple Court is a new age-exclusive development of apartments for residents over 60.
The Pattles were living in their three-bedroom family house in Barking, but the responsibility and upkeep was starting to become too much for the couple. “We lived in the house in Barking for 52 years; it held all our family memories along with a great deal of furniture and belongings,” explains Mr Pattle. “The decision to downsize was always on our mind, but we had to be sure to find the right new home for us.
“Our youngest son passes through Brentwood every day and saw the development of Maple Court from the beginning. One day, he stopped in and booked an appointment and the rest is history, as they say! Joan and I really liked the feel of the development, mostly because of its central location. We also were keen on the idea of a new build property for low maintenance,” continues Mr Pattle.
“One of the major benefits of buying with Fairview was that we were able to part-exchange on our old house. This meant that Fairview arranged everything for the sale, from recommending a solicitor to organizing viewings. It was a totally hassle-free process and the house sold in just three weeks.
“Brentwood is a new area for us, but we are starting to explore the town and it suits us very well. The local church has made us feel very welcome; they even offered to pick Joan up before the service on Sundays.”
Mr Pattle adds, “We are a very sociable couple and used to run a short matt Bowls club in Barking. Come Spring, we would like to try and join something similar to meet new people in the area. Maple Court seems very friendly, especially with the residents’ lounge which is perfect for get-togethers and entertaining friends and family, as well as the lovely communal gardens.”
The Pattles bought a two-bedroom ground floor apartment at Maple Court and moved in time for Christmas last year.
Located in the town centre just off the High Street, Maple Court is surrounded by many shops, restaurants and cafes, and Brentwood Theatre and town library are a few minutes’ walk away. Just outside Brentwood, the surrounding Essex countryside has a range of opportunities for activities with top golf courses, country parks and pretty villages.
For relaxation and socialising with neighbours and visitors, Maple Court has beautifully landscaped gardens that will be regularly maintained, and a communal lounge with comfortable sitting areas.
Jim Holliday, Sales Director of Fairview New Homes, comments: “Extensive market research shows the over 60’s want continued independence with added security and peace of mind. What they don’t want is many of the drawbacks which can come with property ownership in retirement or semi-retirement years.”
“Residents at Maple Court will have their own front door, an easy-maintenance apartment and a 24-hour call out alarm system should they need any assistance,” concludes Mr Holliday.
All apartments at Maple Court are finished to the highest standard and the building has a lift to all floors. The kitchens are fitted with black granite worktops and a Bosch electric fan oven with electric hob and cooker hood. Double glazing, quality insulation and efficient central heating systems mean that running costs will be kept to a minimum.
Brentwood’s High Street has recently been redeveloped and now boasts a range of high street stores and private boutiques. If this shopping district isn’t enough, London is just 18 miles away with trains into Liverpool Street taking approximately 35 minutes. For travel further afield, Stansted, City and Southend airports are all within a 40 minute drive.
Prices for a one-bedroom apartment at Maple Court start from £169,995 and £249,995 for a two-bedroom apartment.
For more information and prices visit the marketing suite, located on Ongar Road, Brentwood, CM15 9AU and is open 5 days a week from 10am to 5pm.
