From downsizing to dream living at Highfields, West Byfleet

From downsizing to dream living at Highfields, West Byfleet

When Adam and Brenda moved to Highfields, West Byfleet, they didn’t just downsize. They let go of niggling worries and concerns about their future and upgraded their lifestyle, gaining a stylish new home that has brought them comfort, convenience, and a strong sense of community.

A smart, practical move

After 27 years in a house in Walton-on-Thames, the couple were ready for a change. “It was a biggish place with a long garden,” Brenda says. “We just didn’t want the upkeep anymore.” They explored several options, including another retirement development nearby, but found Highfields to be better value, quieter, and more suited to their needs.

Their one-bedroom, ground-floor apartment, with garden views and a private patio, offered everything they wanted. “It’s like having your garden but without the work,” says Brenda. “And we haven’t had to mow the lawn once!”

With their pensions in mind, affordability was a key consideration. “We didn’t want to dip into our savings,” Brenda explains. “As a former property professional, I knew exactly what we were looking for and Highfields ticked all the boxes.”

A home that works for their lifestyle

Accessibility was also high on their list, particularly after Brenda had back problems following an accident. “I used to miss the bottom step all the time,” she says, so a step-free, manageable home made perfect sense.

The apartment’s layout makes daily life easier, and having support on hand provides added reassurance. Even the move itself was smooth, thanks to the Aprico moving service. “They were amazing,” Brenda says. “They made it all so simple.”

The location has been another big plus. Adam plays golf and bowls several times a week, and he still uses his AFC Wimbledon season ticket, thanks to the direct connections from nearby West Byfleet station just a short walk away.

A welcoming, social community

What surprised the couple most was the vibrant community spirit. “We’ve never lived anywhere like this before,” says Brenda. “It’s not just for your typical retirees, either. There are residents here who are younger than us, going on holiday, organising things. It’s so nice.”

From coffee mornings and jazz nights to spontaneous social events, there’s always something going on. “The other day we watched the French Open together,” Adam adds. “We just gathered around the TV. It was lovely.” The staff also stand out. “Nothing is too much trouble,” he says.

Downsizing, not compromising

While they considered a two-bedroom flat, they opted for a one-bedroom, and don’t regret it. “We’ve got everything we need,” says Adam. “Now we can go on holiday, eat out when we want. That’s freedom.”

Having a guest suite at the development also means hosting family and friends is still easy, and travelling is stress-free. “We just lock up and go,” Adam says. “No worrying about security or asking neighbours to check in.”

They’ve also noticed the financial benefits. “Bills are about the same,” Brenda says. “Service charges are often a concern, but people tend to overlook the significant costs associated with home maintenance. You’ve got to think about expenses like window cleaning, gardening, or building insurance – these all add up! Here, these costs are all included within the service charge.” 

Planning ahead, living fully

Their move was also a thoughtful one. “We both agreed we wouldn’t want to be in our previous house alone,” says Brenda. “So we thought: why not move now, while we can do it together?”

That decision has brought peace of mind and inspired others. “A friend of ours lost her husband last year,” Adam shares. “After seeing how happy we are, she’s moved in just around the corner.”

Exactly the right move

For Adam and Brenda, Highfields is much more than a retirement development. It’s a lifestyle that suits them down to the ground. Relaxed, social, and without many of the day-to-day worries they had previously.

“This is my last move,” says Brenda, smiling. “And it’s exactly what I hoped it would be.”

Explore Highfields, West Byfleet, welcoming and established community comprising one, two and three bedroom homes surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens, wild flower gardens and allotments. To learn more about this community, and to see listings of homes in the area, visit Highfields or call us on 01932911092.