Renting - A Future Proof Move for Colin and Jennifer's Next Chapter

When Colin and Jennifer Ancliffe swapped their five-bedroom house for a two-bedroom rental apartment in Wooburn Bales, a short drive from their previous home, they weren’t just moving—they were embracing freedom. With Jennifer’s mobility declining, they wanted to simplify life for themselves and their three children. Renting offered exactly that: fewer responsibilities, no maintenance worries, and a more carefree lifestyle. Instead of dealing with the burdens of homeownership—repairs, upkeep, and financial uncertainties—they could focus on enjoying their time together.

And sure enough, the relief of no longer managing a large property—with constant to-do lists, overgrowing gardens, and the threat of costly repairs—has been transformative. Instead, the Ancliffes can prioritise what truly matters: time spent together and the joy of the little things, like enjoying their morning coffee whilst watching horses and deer in the fields nearby Wooburn Bales. Colin adds, “The time released means that I can think more, read more and talk to my kids more.” 

Previously, navigating their large house had become a daily challenge for Jennifer. “Your home shouldn’t feel like hard work,” Colin observes, “it should be somewhere you go to relax.” Moving to a step-free, single-level apartment has brought her not only comfort but confidence, allowing her to move around her home without worry.

Removing present and future stress

Of course, downsizing after fifty years in the same house was no small task. Colin, a former publisher and lifelong book lover, faced the bittersweet task of parting with most of his walls of well-loved titles. Yet he took the process in his stride, with trademark humour. “It turned out that most of my wife’s possessions were essential, and mine weren’t. That’s life—and she’s worth it!”

Letting go of their house wasn’t just about decluttering—it was about lifting a weight off their children’s shoulders. Every attic box and cupboard held memories, but the couple knew that one day, those same possessions could become an overwhelming task for their children. They had experienced the emotional and administrative burden of managing their own parents’ estates—the difficult decisions and endless paperwork all amidst dealing with the grief of losing a loved one.

“We didn’t want our children to face what we went through,” says Colin. “Sorting through a lifetime of belongings while dealing with loss is incredibly hard. We wanted to spare them that stress and make things as simple as possible when the time comes.”

Their pragmatic approach made renting rather than buying their new home the smart move. Renting gave the couple financial flexibility, saved them the cost of Stamp Duty and agent’s fees, removed potential tax burdens and spared their children the responsibility of managing or selling the property in the future. Pegasus Homes’ straightforward rental terms and service charges are also very reassuring. “That transparency helps us, and gives the security we need,” says Colin.

Not what they expected

At first, Colin and Jennifer weren’t sure about moving into an independent living community. Would it feel isolating? Too clinical? Or “like an extension of a doctor’s surgery?” Colin shares their biggest fear: “We were very worried that we'd be among the elderly all the time, and that we'd catch ‘elderliness’—if that’s a word!” he laughs. But the reality? Completely different. They’ve stepped into a vibrant, welcoming community that’s added joy and connection to their lives. “We think we have been lucky with choosing this community; our new neighbours,” Colin quips.

They’ve fully embraced life at Wooburn Bales. From joining Friday night socials to organising impromptu New Year’s Eve charades, or just enjoying a friendly chat when bumping into other residents in the shared spaces, their days are filled with opportunities to connect, something they hadn’t realised they were missing in their former life. Where they lived previously, they’d exchange polite greetings with neighbours, but now they feel part of something more. “Here, it’s about interaction. You’re part of a society—a useful thing at our age.” 

A home that brings joy

For the Ancliffes, their light-filled, two-bedroom apartment has become their sanctuary, perfectly suited to their needs. A short drive from two of their children and their families, and nestled just a minute’s walk from the village of Wooburn Green, it also gives a front-row seat to nature. Jennifer, a wildlife enthusiast, delights in spotting muntjac deer in the fields and horses grazing nearby.

The move has brought the couple clarity and purpose. Focusing on what matters most—each other, their peace of mind, and their family’s future—has made all the difference. When asked if renting at Wooburn Bales was the right decision for them, Colin doesn’t hesitate. “Yes,” he says firmly. “Decisively.”

Located in the picturesque Buckinghamshire village of Wooburn Green, Wooburn Bales is a collection of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, available exclusively for private rent to people over 60, starting from £2,400 pcm. 

For more information about Wooburn Bales and the friendly community at Pegasus Homes, contact us at 01628 918050.