Hi
@AliceA -sods law I am 53 this year
Worth a try though especially with a new build as the company needs to fill the flats and it is a slow market. You have a respectable position too.
Just a word of warning, the price of new flats is inflated because it can take a while to fill the development. Hence the price is often projected to the expected price in say two years.
The developers have to cover the service charge for the empty flats so factor that in too.
The housing market is slow so it could take a time. That could work in your favour re age.
Second hand flats are more realistic as families need to sell and also have to consider the market.
Looking at the history of retirement development the price is much lower when they were originally built.
Check the lease carefully, we both led a group to extend the lease as they were getting near 80 years. To extend them under 80 is expensive, because there is a 'marriage' cost. This does not apply to over the 80 years. At 53 you have to be thinking of resale too.
Some Solititors are not familiar wth retirement scheme leases. We are see a large firm as they had wider knowledge.
One advantage is that the flats are pretty secure to lock and leave, good for travel plans. good luck. Xxx