Sandra Tuson
Why Sandra chose financial certainty over home ownership in retirement.
Sandra Tuson, 70, retired at 65 years old following a career dedicated to caring for her local community as a Community District Nurse before becoming an NVQ Assessor in Health and Social Care.
Originally from Hampstead, North London, Sandra moved to a one-bedroom apartment three years ago, at Hedingham Place in Essex through My Future Living, retirement rental specialists.
Her move followed an unexpected change in circumstances when the privately rented property she was living in was put up for sale, leaving her with just one month’s notice.
The experience prompted Sandra to look for a more secure long-term home, and she subsequently discovered My Future Living. Sandra comments: “I feel they did me a favour because I found My Future Living, and I couldn’t be happier with where I am now.”
Sandra particularly values the security of an assured periodic tenancy and having her two daughters living nearby, providing an important support network.
The Importance of Community
The community at Hedingham Place has become an important part of Sandra’s retirement. As the social organiser for the community, she regularly organises social activities for residents, including fish and chip evenings, pub lunches, cream teas, cheese and wine evenings and film nights.
She goes on to say: “There’s a wonderful community here. There are lots of people around for support, but everyone also respects each other’s privacy.”
Financial Security and Peace of Mind
Financial security is another important benefit for Sandra. Now relying on her pension, she values the financial certainty that renting provides. Knowing what her regular household costs each month will be, means she can budget with confidence, without the worry of unexpected maintenance or repair bills. For Sandra, that sense of financial freedom and security is an important part of enjoying life without constantly worrying about what might come up next.
“I like knowing that I’m in control of my pension and my outgoings. If something breaks or needs repairing, I don’t have to worry about unexpected maintenance costs.”
Sandra now recommends renting in retirement to friends who are considering downsizing, having found that it gives her the combination of security, financial control and community she was looking for.
She has become such an advocate for renting in retirement that she regularly recommends it to friends. Sandra says: “I would recommend renting in retirement. I’ve told all my friends about it. especially those who are thinking about downsizing and I always tell them about the benefits of renting.”
Three years after the unexpected notice that prompted her to move, Sandra has no regrets. What began as an unsettling change has given her a secure home, a close-knit community, more time with her family and, a busy diary!
If you want to look ahead at the next chapter, explore available properties in your chosen area and get in contact to know more. There’s never a better time to get started, than today!
