McCarthy Stone is a leading developer in the UK, specialising in creating award-winning retirement properties for sale or rent. With a focus on quality, safety, and low-maintenance homes, they excel in developing private retirement apartments, bungalows, and cottages in desirable locations. The company thrives on promoting fun-filled, friendly communities with dedicated homeowners and caring onsite teams that make their developments stand out in the competitive retirement living industry.
Their developments not only offer outstanding contemporary properties filled with natural light and high-spec fixtures but also pride themselves on providing various options for retirees, such as independent senior living and assisted living. These choices cater to the diverse needs of older adults, allowing them to maintain an independent lifestyle or receive additional support as needed.
With a range of locations, from rural or coastal retreats to bustling city centres and charming market towns, McCarthy Stone ensures that every retiree finds the perfect place to call home. Their commitment to quality, combined with a focus on promoting a thriving community, has established the company as a trusted choice for retirement living in the UK.
McCarthy Stone Retirement Living
Overview
McCarthy Stone is the UK’s leading developer and manager of retirement communities, offering high-quality, age-exclusive retirement properties to over 20,000 customers across the country. The company specialises in creating award-winning retirement homes for sale or rent, which provide a welcoming and secure environment for occupants. These properties are designed to be low-maintenance and private, combining comfort with practicality in a variety of superb locations. Ranging from rural or coastal retreats to bustling city centres or lively market towns, there is a McCarthy Stone development to suit everyone’s preference.
Retirement Living Plus
Retirement Living Plus, also known as Assisted Living, is another option offered by McCarthy Stone. This type of living arrangement provides additional support and care services catered to those residents who require them. Some of the Retirement Living Plus benefits include:
- Outstanding contemporary properties filled with natural light and featuring high-spec fixtures and fittings.
- On-site care teams providing personalised care plans tailored to each individual’s needs.
- Flexible dining options, with on-site catering staff preparing fresh, nutritious meals.
- Communal areas designed for socialising, helping to build a strong sense of community and promote well-being.
In summary, McCarthy Stone Retirement Living offers a variety of options to suit every individual’s needs and preferences. The retirement properties are designed for relaxed and comfortable living, while the Retirement Living Plus facilities provide additional support catered to those who require it. McCarthy Stone remains committed to creating fun-filled, friendly communities across the UK, ensuring a high-quality living experience for everyone looking to enjoy their retirement.
Types of Properties
McCarthy Stone offers a range of retirement living properties designed to cater to various preferences and lifestyles of their homeowners. These properties primarily include apartments and bungalows, providing comfortable and modern living spaces for individuals in their retirement years.
Apartments
The majority of McCarthy Stone developments consist of one and two-bedroom apartments. These apartments are designed with seniors in mind and focus on providing a comfortable and accessible living environment. They often feature modern features and finishes, ensuring that residents can enjoy a high quality of life without worrying about excessive maintenance.
Bungalows
In addition to apartments, McCarthy Stone also offers bungalows in selected developments. For those who prefer a more traditional, single-level home, these bungalows offer an attractive option, combining modern design with the familiarity of a detached or semi-detached property.
Lifestyle Living
Lifestyle Living developments by McCarthy Stone cater to those who are seeking a more active retirement experience. These properties offer a blend of stylish, low-maintenance homes and various amenities to suit the needs of their residents. These developments often include leisure facilities, such as gyms, swimming pools, and clubhouses, to facilitate an active social life and support the wellbeing of the homeowners.
Independent Living Property
At its core, McCarthy Stone aims to provide independent living properties for its residents. These homes are designed to allow retirees to maintain their independence and control over their lives. This type of property ensures that homeowners have access to the support and facilities they need while still enjoying the privacy and autonomy of their own living space.
Attached to some of the McCarthy Stone developments are Retirement Living PLUS properties that offer assisted living options for those needing additional support, such as daily assistance or access to care services. These homes are still designed to offer independence, but with the added benefit of on-site care and support services available for those who require them.
Locations and Communities
McCarthy Stone, the UK’s leading retirement home developer, offers a wide range of retirement properties in prime locations across the country. These communities are specifically designed to cater to the needs and preferences of retirees, ensuring a comfortable, safe and enjoyable living environment.
One such community is Cwrt Gloddaeth in Llandudno, which boasts an excellent combination of seaside living and easy access to local amenities. Llandudno is a popular choice for retirees seeking a relaxing lifestyle and stunning coastal views in a picturesque town.
Another well-regarded McCarthy Stone property can be found in Cheshire. This location offers retirees access to a variety of local amenities as well as tranquil suburban living, perfect for those looking to enjoy their retirement in a serene and peaceful environment.
In addition to these charming locations, McCarthy Stone has also established a retirement living community in Milton Keynes. The Bluebell House development is located in the Westcroft area of the city, providing residents with convenient access to local amenities such as shops, GP surgeries, and public transport. Key distances for residents of Bluebell House include:
- Bus Stop: 0.8 miles
- Local Pub: 1 mile
- GP Surgery: 0.6 miles
- Train Station: 3.6 miles
- Nearby Shops: 0.2 miles
- Hospital: 3.8 miles
McCarthy Stone’s retirement communities provide a variety of housing options, ranging from apartments and bungalows to private landscaped gardens and stylish communal lounges. A strong emphasis is placed on security, with extensive security systems and the presence of a House Manager to ensure the well-being of all residents.
In summary, McCarthy Stone retirement living communities offer retirees a wide range of prime locations to choose from, each providing exceptional access to local amenities, distinctive housing options, and a strong sense of community.
Amenities and Facilities
McCarthy Stone offers a wide range of amenities and facilities to ensure residents enjoy a comfortable and engaging retirement living experience. Many of their developments are designed with a focus on providing a warm and welcoming community atmosphere.
Residents benefit from well-appointed communal areas, including a cosy communal lounge where they can socialise with fellow residents and engage in various activities. The developments typically feature a beautiful garden area where residents can relax, soak in some sunshine, and appreciate the outdoors.
For the convenience and enjoyment of the residents, McCarthy Stone offers on-site amenities, such as a cinema for movie nights and a guest suite for when friends and family come to visit. The presence of a concierge service ensures that residents’ needs are met and any queries are addressed promptly; this professional assistance is much appreciated in maintaining an organised, efficient living environment.
A significant feature of McCarthy Stone retirement properties is the dedicated House Manager, who oversees the running of the development, provides assistance to residents and ensures a smooth, enjoyable retirement experience. Safety and security are of utmost importance, and the 24-hour emergency call system offers peace of mind to both residents and their loved ones.
With technology playing a greater role in modern life, McCarthy Stone recognises the importance of staying connected. Their developments offer Wi-Fi and broadband facilities, enabling residents to remain in touch with friends and family, stay up to date with the latest news, or simply enjoy browsing the internet at leisure.
In addition to the on-site amenities, McCarthy Stone also places emphasis on the importance of local amenities. Their developments are often situated close to various shops, cafes, public transport links, and medical facilities, ensuring residents have easy access to everything they need for a comfortable and fulfilling retirement.
Benefits of Retirement Living
Choosing a retirement home such as those provided by McCarthy Stone can offer numerous advantages to homeowners, enabling them to live independently and comfortably within a supportive community setting.
One of the main benefits of retirement living is the opportunity to join a friendly community of like-minded individuals. McCarthy Stone’s developments are designed to promote social interaction, fostering friendships and providing a range of activities tailored to the interests of their residents. These communities offer a sense of belonging, connections and mental wellbeing that can greatly enhance the retirement experience.
Another key advantage of living in a McCarthy Stone retirement home is the lower maintenance required compared to a traditional house. The company takes care of the exterior maintenance, landscaping, and even some internal upkeep, relieving homeowners of time-consuming chores and allowing them to focus on enjoying their retirement. This can also mean fewer risks, as there is no need for a health & safety assessment before undertaking tasks such as gardening or home repairs.
Energy efficiency is another important aspect of retirement living. McCarthy Stone designs its homes with modern, energy-efficient materials and technologies, resulting in lower utility bills and a smaller ecological footprint. Ensuring a comfortable, warm living space without excessive energy use can be an essential factor for homeowners on a fixed income or looking to reduce their carbon impact.
In addition to these practical advantages, the retirement homes offered by McCarthy Stone provide a level of safety and security that can be crucial for those looking to downsize or simplify their life. With on-site staff, secure entry systems, and safety features such as emergency call systems, residents can feel confident in their new living environment.
In summary, McCarthy Stone retirement living offers a combination of social, practical, and safety benefits, making it an appealing option for those looking to enjoy their retirement years in a supportive and comfortable community.
Tenure Options and Financials
McCarthy Stone offers a range of tenure options for their retirement properties, catering to various preferences and financial situations. These options include purchasing a property outright, renting, and benefiting from special offers.
- For Sale: McCarthy Stone provides retirement properties for sale for those who prefer to own their living space. These properties range from one to two-bedroom apartments, coach houses, and bungalows, meeting the diverse needs of their clientele.
- To Rent: For individuals who prefer the flexibility of renting, McCarthy Stone also offers rental options for their retirement properties. Renting allows residents to enjoy the benefits of living in a retirement community without the long-term commitment of purchasing.
- Part Exchange: McCarthy Stone understands the challenges of selling a previous home, so they offer a part exchange scheme for a hassle-free move. This service allows clients to trade their existing property, securing them a prompt sale and helping them to avoid estate agent fees.
- Smooth Move: To further assist clients with their transition, McCarthy Stone provides a comprehensive moving service called “Smooth Move”. This free service includes contributions towards estate agent fees, removal costs, and a professional packing service, ensuring a stress-free experience.
- Special Offers: McCarthy Stone also offers special promotions, including discounts on selected retirement properties. These offers aim to make the transition to retirement living more affordable and accessible.
In 2018, McCarthy Stone established a for-profit registered provider to offer increased choice of tenure to its customers. To support the development of their retirement living rental portfolio, McCarthy Stone secured approximately £200m of total financing.
By offering various tenure options and financial support, McCarthy Stone ensures that their retirement living options cater to a diverse range of individuals and their unique needs.
Care and Support
Retirement Living Plus by McCarthy Stone offers a comprehensive care and support system for residents who choose to live in their developments. This includes an experienced and dedicated care team onsite each day, ensuring that residents are safe and surrounded by people who have a genuine understanding of their needs.
The emergency call system is an essential feature of Retirement Living Plus. This 24/7 service provides residents with immediate assistance when required, through the use of call points in every apartment and communal areas. Additionally, fire detection and door camera entry systems ensure the residents’ safety and security.
Personal care is a crucial aspect of Retirement Living Plus, with services tailored to individual needs. These can include assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. This personalised approach ensures residents maintain their independence while receiving the appropriate level of support.
The care and support available within McCarthy Stone Retirement Living Plus developments include:
- An experienced and dedicated care team on site daily
- A 24/7 emergency call system for immediate assistance
- Personalised care and support services, including help with daily activities
- Door camera entry and fire detection systems for added safety and security
- Communal areas for socialising, such as lounges with Wi-Fi and landscaped gardens
It is important to note that extra charges apply for some services, and facilities may vary depending on the specific retirement development. Residents and their families can always contact McCarthy Stone to discuss the available facilities and services in detail.
Regulations and Standards
McCarthy Stone is a well-known provider of retirement living apartments in the United Kingdom, offering a variety of age-exclusive living options. This includes Retirement Living and Retirement Living PLUS apartments, which cater to individuals aged 60 and over or 70 and over, respectively. Compliance with regulations and standards is an essential aspect of ensuring a safe and comfortable living experience for residents.
The age-restricted apartments developed by McCarthy Stone must adhere to Building Regulations. McCarthy Stone’s schemes already conform to the IEE regulation Standards, which is a mandatory requirement and surpasses the needs of Part P of the Building regulations. Meeting these regulations is important because Part P is considered inadequate as it leads to additional costs, paperwork, and time for providers.
Additionally, McCarthy Stone is a member of the Associated Retirement Community Operators (ARCO), further asserting their commitment to quality and upholding high standards. ARCO is a trade association for retirement community providers in the United Kingdom, which aims to promote confidence in retirement living and encourages its members to deliver excellence.
ARCO membership requires providers like McCarthy Stone to adhere to a stringent set of regulations and a robust consumer-focused code of conduct. This ensures that residents receive the highest level of care, transparency, and support throughout their stay at a retirement community.
In summary, McCarthy Stone’s commitment to meeting regulations and standards, including compliance with the Building Regulations and IEE regulation Standards, as well as their membership in ARCO, indicates their dedication to providing a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable retirement living experience for their residents.
Local Amenities and Accessibility
In a McCarthy Stone retirement living development, residents enjoy the convenience of having local amenities and attractions within close proximity. One of the main focuses of their developments is to ensure retirees have everything they need within easy reach, promoting an independent lifestyle and enhancing their quality of life.
Residents can find a variety of nearby shops for their everyday needs, from groceries to clothing and other essentials. These shops are often situated within walking distance, making day-to-day errands more manageable and accessible for seniors. Public transport options like bus stops and train stations are also nearby, allowing residents to travel to other locations with ease.
For socialising and entertainment, local pubs are often located in the vicinity, catering to those who enjoy spending time with friends and neighbours. This allows retirees to maintain an active social life and engage in community events. Additionally, cultural attractions, such as theatres and cinemas, may also be found in the area, enabling residents to pursue leisure activities and maintain a balanced lifestyle.
Healthcare facilities are another essential aspect of retirement living. McCarthy Stone developments are typically situated close to GP surgeries, ensuring residents have prompt access to medical services when required. Moreover, hospitals are often in the proximity, providing retirees with the peace of mind that professional care is available in case of emergencies.
In summary, McCarthy Stone retirement living developments prioritise residents’ accessibility to various local amenities, including:
- Nearby shops for everyday essentials
- Convenient public transport options like bus stops and train stations
- Local pubs and cultural attractions for socialising and entertainment
- Accessible healthcare facilities such as GP surgeries and hospitals
Considerations for Prospective Buyers
When considering a McCarthy Stone retirement living property, there are several factors that prospective buyers should keep in mind. One of the key benefits offered by McCarthy Stone properties is the presence of private outdoor space. Many apartments come with balconies or patios, allowing residents to enjoy some fresh air and outdoor relaxation without leaving the comfort of their homes.
In addition to private outdoor spaces, McCarthy Stone retirement living complexes often feature attractive and well-maintained landscaped gardens. These gardens provide a greener choice for those looking to downsize from larger homes, offering a pleasant environment in which residents can enjoy nature and socialise with fellow community members.
New homes are another selling point of McCarthy Stone retirement living properties. These purpose-built properties are designed specifically for retirees, providing all necessary modern conveniences while reducing maintenance worries. This ensures residents can live comfortably and safely in a contemporary space, designed with their needs in mind.
Privacy is an essential consideration for many retirees, and McCarthy Stone communities are built to balance the need for social interaction and the need for private spaces. The apartments themselves provide residents with their required privacy, while communal areas offer opportunities for social interactions and forming connections with fellow residents.
For many retirees, pets play an essential role in their companionship and overall wellbeing. McCarthy Stone properties generally allow pets, although certain restrictions on specific pet types may apply, as well as the discretion of the development manager. Prospective buyers with pets should inquire about the pet policy to ensure their furry companions can be accommodated.
In summary, McCarthy Stone retirement properties offer numerous benefits to prospective buyers, such as private outdoor spaces, attractive gardens, modern homes, and the ability to bring pets. These factors should be carefully considered when evaluating whether a McCarthy Stone retirement living property is the right choice for one’s retirement years.