When thinking of property factor and the type of properties they manage, we most commonly associate blocks of flats, such as tenements and new build developments. But in truth, there are a wide range of properties and homeowners that require property management, such as retirement and sheltered housing.
Properties catering to retired homeowners are often overlooked due to common misconceptions and comparisons to nursing homes. Nursing homes provide medical care and assistance with daily activities, whilst retirement homes and sheltered housing are more about providing a community and support for independent living.
What are some misconceptions around retirement and sheltered housing?
Those that live in retirement homes or sheltered housing are often depicted as being less able bodied or elderly, again this is a very outdated thought and often the exact opposite, with many retirees simply looking to downsize their home but not their lifestyle.
Another unfair misconception is that these developments offer sub-par facilities but in reality, many developments offer high-quality accommodation and facilities and are built specifically to attract those that are looking to downsize their home but continue with an active lifestyle and are looking to enjoy an extra level of comfort.
Residents also enjoy their own privacy. Whilst there are shared facilities and often communal areas to socialise, residents’ homes are totally private and self-contained. They can also enjoy visits from friends and family as much as possible and enjoy the freedom to come and go just like any other home.
Who qualifies for sheltered housing in Scotland?
Sheltered housing, also referred to as supported housing, is available to those that are over 60 (this can vary marginally from development to development based on the Deeds) and are looking to continue living independently but with the extra peace of mind of having a warden to call on in an emergency.
Sheltered housing properties can be bought or rented and are usually provided by a local council, housing association or private company.
What types of properties are considered sheltered or retirement housing?
The types of properties can vary, from individual houses such as bungalows, to apartments in a development.
Residents will often share amenities such as gardens, laundry facilities and communal social areas.
How does a property factor work with retirement and sheltered housing?
Just like any development or building which contains multiple residents, retirement and sheltered housing properties often require a property factor to maintain the shared spaces and provide suitable building and property owners liability insurance. Maintenance services can include cleaning, landscaping & gardening, fire alarm maintenance, door entry and gates and other general repairs.
Do retirement and sheltered housing developments require a different level of property management?
There may be occasional extra requirements depending on the retirement development which where it really pays to choose an expert property factor such as Taylor & Martin.
Taylor & Martin successfully manage many retirement and sheltered housing developments across Scotland and have done so for many years.
I live in a retirement development; can I switch property factors?
If you’re looking to switch property factors to a better service, or your current provider can no longer manage your property, speak to our team at Taylor & Martin about switching. As long as you own the property you can start discussions with our team. It may be a simple switch requiring just the majority vote from other homeowners, or we may need some more information. Either way, if you’re looking for a better service, it’s worth contacting us to find out more.