The property industry should start focusing less on starter homes and more on the merits of downsizing for Scotland’s older people, according to Bield.

In the last year, the housing and care provider has launched luxury retirement housing developments in both St Andrews and Bearsden, to provide quality housing for a market which is often overlooked.

A recent survey conducted by Saga Scotland suggested that many over 60s fail to see the benefit of downsizing, financial or otherwise. It was found that there is a lack of suitable housing options for the older generation which is fundamentally preventing these people from moving.

Bield aims to counter this by building developments for independent over 60 living.

Susan Jackson, new homes sales and marketing manager at Bield, said: “There is often a lot of focus on first time buyers in the property market, but there are currently thousands of older people looking to downsize.

“As the Saga Scotland report states many of Scotland’s over 60s have thought about moving to more suitable housing yet they believe there is little incentive for them to do this.

“We want to show that downsizing with Bield is rightsizing. It allows buyers to relocate to properties in prime locations, with strong lifestyle facilities whilst taking control of their retirement finances.

“The swift uptake of apartments at our new developments shows that the older generation in Scotland are looking for affordable homes built to an uncompromising standard and that is what we give them.”

Bield’s properties mean older people can continue to enjoy the freedom of independent living while still having the option of help when it is needed.

Susan added: “People need to be made aware that downsizing is not a negative thing – in fact it can seriously improve the quality of lifestyle.

“It will release money in equity and allow you to pay off mortgages, invest, get your children on the property ladder, pay for future care or just enjoy life.

“In addition to this equity release the gains from cost, time and money savings on running a large house and gardens is increasingly attractive to those who find themselves lost in a large house and garden in need of constant maintenance.

“It is our aim to ensure that we are providing properties which will benefit people in this way.”