Why bungalows are top of the wish list

It’s no wonder bungalows are in such high demand. For many people in later life, they tick every box for how we want — and need — to live next:

• No stairs to navigate

• Easier to maintain and more cost-effective to heat

• Ideal for ageing in place

• Often come with a garden or outdoor space

• Perfect if you want to downsize without giving up comfort

Bungalows offer long-term peace of mind, day-to-day simplicity, and a real sense of home. But with so few available — and prices rising — it’s no surprise many can feel stuck or outpaced by the market.

The problem? There simply aren’t enough being built

In 1990, bungalows made up 11% of new homes. Today it’s only 1%.

At the same time, over 1.2 million older homeowners have delayed or abandoned plans to move, often because they couldn’t find the right kind of property.

The government’s Older People’s Housing Taskforce backs this up. Most homes in the UK aren’t designed with ageing in mind:

• Only 12% have level access at the entrance

• Fewer than half have a bathroom on the ground floor

• Demand for age-suitable homes is rising — fast

But that doesn’t mean you have to give up. There’s a little-known way to get ahead of the market — and move into the right home, sooner.

The Home for Life Plan — a smarter way to move into a bungalow

At Homewise, we’ve helped thousands of people aged 60 and over move into better-suited homes — even in a tight market.

Our Home for Life Plan is a unique way for those aged 60+ to secure a bungalow or single-level property, without needing a mortgage or paying full market price.

Here’s how it works:

• You pay a one-off amount (less than market value) to live in the home of your choice

• You then live there for life, rent-free, mortgage-free

• Your right to stay is protected in law

• It’s not a loan, not equity release, and not shared ownership

It’s ideal if you want to downsize, release money for later life, and stay in control of where — and how — you live.

We help you find homes others may miss

At Homewise, we work directly with estate agents and housebuilders (including retirement experts Churchill Living), so we can help you access a wider range of properties, including rare bungalows and retirement apartments, that are often snapped up fast or financially out of reach.

We also take the stress out of the move. You won’t need to chase listings or navigate confusing jargon. Just tell us what you’re looking for, and we’ll help you explore real options — in your budget, in your preferred area, and built for your future.

Why people choose to move with Homewise

• You get more choice and less stress

• You stay in control of your move — no loans, no surprises

• You can live closer to family, reduce bills, and enjoy your space again

• You get a plan that works — not just for now, but for the long term

Our customers often say:

“I didn’t know this was possible — and now I can’t imagine life any other way.”

If you’re looking for a bungalow — this could be the answer

We get it. The housing market can be tough, and bungalows are in short supply. But with the Home for Life Plan, you can beat market challenges — and finally find a home that fits your life now and for years to come.

Let’s see what’s possible, together.

Call us today on 0808 115 1549

Already seen a bungalow you love? Use quick our online calculator to get a rough idea of what it could cost with the Home for Life Plan.

Not sure what’s realistic for your budget? Pop your numbers into the calculator and see how much more you could afford — with a boost from Homewise.

Once you’ve got an estimate, you’ll have the option to request a call back from one of our team. No pressure. Just a friendly chat to talk through your options and give you a personalised quote — so you can decide if it’s right for you.

Because whether you’ve spotted your dream home already or just want to understand what’s possible — we’re here to help you move forward, at your pace.