Culture, community & family make the perfect next chapter

When retired teacher Ray Palmer’s wife sadly passed away, he knew he wanted to downsize and move closer to family. With a son in Gloucester and a daughter in nearby Abingdon, Mr Palmer chose a spacious two-bedroom, first floor apartment at Renaissance’s stunning Wantage community to call home.

Speaking about his move from the large, detached family house he had owned with his wife just south of York, Mr Palmer, 83, explained: “We had been discussing downsizing for a while, but unfortunately my wife’s cancer returned so any plans we had were put on hold. Choosing between York and Gloucester was tricky, but I figured the weather further south is warmer and drier!

“I’d originally planned on buying a smaller house or bungalow. However, after my fifteenth house viewing, it struck me that moving isn’t fun. I didn’t want to be faced with the idea of moving again, so changed my search to find somewhere where I could stay long term. Renaissance was the fifth developer I looked at and once I saw it, I knew this was where I wanted to be. Wherever you live in a house, problems arise, so I particularly liked the idea of not having any maintenance to worry about.”

Renaissance’s Wantage community is set in the heart of the historic town, with easy access to local shops, eateries and entertainment. Ray continues: “I didn’t want to be a in a large town or a small village, so Wantage has fit the bill perfectly, especially as it’s so close to the wonderful culture in Oxford. I also knew I didn’t want to be a in a big, faceless development, whereas here we all know each other and have looked out for one another, especially during lockdown.

“I love my home. It’s a lovely, sunny apartment with a high-quality finish, plus the benefit of added security and the company of others. I was shielding during the height of lockdown, along with some of the other homeowners, so we kept in touch by calling each other daily, whilst others were able to use the communal lounge for socially distanced coffees. I must admit, I found lockdown quite tedious, but I would have been much lonelier in my old, detached house. We’ve also got a wonderful Lifehost on hand to help us if needed, and who has also started organising events for us again now.

“The wider community and local activities were a big consideration when choosing my next home. I like to get out and about, and the local museum has lots of wonderful exhibitions. Some of us here had also joined a local walking group, which had to be put on hold, so I’m looking forward to that starting back up again.”

Mr Palmer took advantage of Lifestory Homemoves, Renaissance’s complimentary moving service to assist with his move from York: “The Homemove service was excellent, I can’t praise them enough especially as I had a quick turnaround of dates when moving. They helped me pack up my possessions and then two local ladies very kindly helped with the unpacking once we arrived in Wantage. It was all very efficient and helpful.”

Renaissance’s Wantage community comprises 32 one and two bed spacious apartments, built on the former magistrate’s court and Police station on Church Street. With only a few homes remaining, book your private tour with our team by calling 01235 330168 or by emailing [email protected].