Ten reasons to retire in Kent

County Homesearch clients are rarely looking for a sedentary lifestyle when they retire or downsize. Sue Carne, Director of our Kent and Sussex office explains what her clients can expect from an active retirement in the garden of England.

Making the decision to downsize or retire can be daunting. It's an important move that you will want to get right, and finding a home that will provide you with comfort, security and lower maintenance bills can take a great deal of time and patience.

On a positive note, it is also an exciting new chapter in life, and whilst taking it easy might feature somewhere on the list, a sedentary lifestyle is the last thing many County Homesearch clients are looking for! Downsizers often seek our help to find lock-up-and-leave style properties so they can pursue their travels or even live part of the year abroad. High on the wish-lists of our downsizing clients are: a selection of local amenities and social opportunities; walking or cycle trails; sailing clubs; gastro pubs and easy access to ports and airports.

The County Homesearch Office in Kent, run by Director Sue Carne, is a wonderful solution for anyone seeking to relocate to the region and put down roots in a local community. Sue's contacts, passion for her area and experience of tracking down just the right home make her an invaluable guide on any homesearch here. 

If you are interested in downsizing to Kent, Sue can offer assistance with all aspects of the move including: identifying the best area for your needs; short-listing properties and accompanying you on viewings; price negotiation; and even pointing you in the direction of the best local pubs, cafes and restaurants! In short, she takes the stress and leg-work out of the process to allow you to relax and spend your free time exploring your new surroundings.   

Why Downsize to Kent?  

Often referred to as the garden of England, Kent's big skies; wide horizons; beautiful coastline; stunning countryside; rich historical heritage and contemporary cultural scene offer something for everyone. Here are Sue's top ten reasons to choose Kent as the perfect place to downsize… 

Beautiful property                
                                                                           
Depending on your budget and requirements, Kent offers a wide variety of beautiful housing stock in town, village, coastal or rural locations. Not only is it great value for money, it's still possible to discover a real bargain here too! 

Family values                       
                                                                                            
Many clients move to Kent to be closer to family and grandchildren. Community is highly prized in this part of the world, and you are likely to receive a warm welcome if you choose to settle here. 

Fantastic climate                  
                                                                                      
There are more sunny days here than almost anywhere else in the UK! 

Good transport links            
                                                              
Kent has excellent roads, efficient rail services and well-organised bus routes. There is so much to see and do in the county - and those who choose not to run a car in later years need not feel isolated. 

Close to London   

Kent offers the best of both worlds. A 30-40 minute journey by train or car means you can enjoy the theatres, shopping or bright lights of the city whenever the mood takes you. 

Easy access to France and Europe                   
                                                         
There is a distinctly continental flavour to parts of Kent courtesy of our close European neighbours.  Dover is a modern, state-of-the-art port, just 21 miles from France! Taking the Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais is only a 35 minute journey. 

History and Culture                       
                                                                                  
There is no shortage of things to see and do in Kent. Explore the castles of Leeds, Dover and Hever or the beautiful cathedrals at Canterbury and Rochester. There are also historic homes, heritage sites, museums, theatres, antique shops and art galleries should the mood take you. 

Beautiful countryside

From chalk downland, haunting marshes, rolling fields, hop gardens, orchards and farms, Kent has an incredible variety of scenery to explore. Tackle cliff top walks, miles of cycle paths or take a stroll through Elham Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty rich with woodland walks and country pubs close to Canterbury. 

Blow the cobwebs away at the Coast          
                                                                                              
Whether you prefer bohemian Whitstable, characterful Herne Bay, artistic Folkestone, historic Hythe, or the spectacular beaches of Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate, you are sure to find your own favourite seaside retreat on Kent's inspiring coastline. 

Heaven for foodies          
                                                                                                 
Kent is rapidly gaining a reputation for great cuisine including fresh seafood and fantastic produce, particularly when accompanied by a glass of locally produced wine, cider or real ale. There's a lot of fun to be had exploring the vineyards, cider orchards and microbreweries in the name of thorough research!  

If you are interested in downsizing to Kent and would like expert, independent advice finding a home or second home in the region, please contact Sue Carne on 01428 652660 or email: sue@county-homesearch.com