Downsizing shouldn’t mean compromising on lifestyle or location. For one Arundel couple, the answer was a new apartment just a five-minute walk from the family house they had enjoyed for over 42 years. Margaret and Francois Delauzun chose a more manageable new home that still lets them stay close to the people and places they know so well.
“We were getting older and felt we didn’t need a four-bedroom house,” explained Francois. “The general maintenance of the house and its garden was beginning to get burdensome and the stairs were becoming a challenge.
“Moreover, we saw an opportunity to release some equity from the house, thereby releasing funds for the benefit of our children at a time in their lives when it would make a big difference.”
Moving to a smaller property made sense now they no longer needed so much space, but finding the right balance was essential. Margaret and Francois wanted a home that was both high quality and low maintenance, without losing their connection to Arundel and its nearby coast and countryside.
Location was the first key factor. The Arun Apartments in Ford Road, Arundel, are close to their former home and offer the style and quality they wanted. Set within walking distance of the town centre and close to the River Arun, the apartments provide an opportunity to enjoy Arundel’s historic surroundings, independent shops and cafés.
“We were keen to stay in the neighbourhood and saw the apartments being built from the beginning. We were impressed by the quality of the workmanship,” said Margaret. “When we visited the show apartment, our first impression was the spaciousness of all the rooms and the corridors, as well as the general brightness of the apartment.”
Now settled in, they have found their apartment offers an easier, more relaxed way of living and the town centre close at hand.
“We are getting an apartment of very high standards, with good fittings. And of course, no stairs,” they said. “The apartment is comfortable, warm, bright and quiet with extremely pleasant views from every room. A community feeling is beginning to develop as people start to move in, and proximity to town and to public transport is a major asset.”
For Margaret and Francois, the move has enabled them to maintain their local connections while choosing a home that suits their needs.
They also spoke positively about their experiences of buying through Oakford Homes, the team behind The Arun Apartments, which are designed for their setting in the historic town. The apartments feature spacious interiors and excellent finishes, including all flooring and a range of kitchen appliances to create a home that fits modern lifestyles from day one. Most apartments also have a balcony, while each has allocated parking.
Margaret added, “We cannot commend enough the professionalism and friendliness of the staff in the show apartment.The extensive information provided on the USB stick after we moved in was also appreciated.”
Their advice to anyone considering downsizing to The Arun Apartments is straightforward: “It’s a no-brainer,” they both agreed. “You should seriously consider these apartments and don’t delay your decision if you want to have the best choice.”
After more than four decades in one home, Margaret and Francois have found an apartment that suits the life they want to lead now, without compromising on location or lifestyle.
Prices at The Arun Apartments start at £225,000 for a 1-bedroom apartment and from £335,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment with a Juliet balcony and its own private front door. The show apartment is available to view Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm by appointment only. For further information or to arrange a viewing, call 01903 962159 or enquire here.