Making Your Next Move a Positive Platinum Experience
At Platinum Homes by Bridges, we understand that downsizing is a significant step, often accompanied by emotional ties to your home. Our experienced Platinum team, specialists in the property market across Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire, are here to make the journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re looking to free up equity, simplify your lifestyle, or move to a home that better suits your current needs, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way. With personalised guidance, market expertise, and a genuine understanding of the emotional aspects of downsizing, we’ll help you make informed decisions and achieve the best possible outcome for your next chapter.
The
Platinum Team Talk Downsizing in 2025:
A Growing Desire to Right-Size Your Life
As housing trends shift, more people are rethinking the size of their homes. Of all sales transactions in Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire through Platinum Homes in 2024, 67% of homeowners were downsizing primarily to improve their quality of life, reduce expenses, and provide financial aid to their loved ones.
For many who have enjoyed their homes over the last 15+ years, the appeal of a smaller, more manageable home has become increasingly attractive.
Our analysis reveals that the average “downsize” sale in 2024 through Platinum Homes has released well over £250,000 in equity—funds that many homeowners use to enhance their retirement, support their families, or simply enjoy greater financial freedom.
Some choose to downsize for practical reasons, such as lowering utility bills, reducing maintenance, and ensuring accessibility for the future. But others are driven by a mindset shift, embracing the freedom to focus on experiences, travel, and spending time with loved ones.
Downsizing isn’t just about having less; it’s about having more of what truly matters.
Testimonial
“I am very happy with the service provided by Platinum Homes in the marketing and sale of our home which has been in the family for over 50 years. Phil is very professional whilst being friendly and understanding during a stressful time. He provided me with unbiased information which guided me in making the most important decisionwho to sell our home to. I would definitely use Platinum Homes again.”
Mickie Wertheimer-Trolley Platinum Homes Vendor 2024
Platinum Property Finding: The Ultimate Service for Downsizers
Downsizing can be a significant step, but with Platinum Homes by Bridges, it’s a journey we aim to make seamless and rewarding. A key part of our bespoke service for downsizers is Platinum Property Finding - a tailored offering designed to help you find the perfect next chapter in your property journey.
What is Platinum Property Finding?
Our dedicated team understands the unique needs of downsizers. From the size and layout of your ideal home to its location and accessibility, we ensure every detail is considered. As part of our service, we take the time to:
• Understand Your Goals: Your lifestyle, preferences, and future plans are at the heart of every search.
• Provide Access to Exclusive Listings: We give you priority access to properties that meet your criteria, including those not yet on the market.
• Support You Every Step of the Way: From arranging viewings to handling negotiations, we take care of the hard work.
Why Downsizers Love Platinum Property Finding:
• Time-Saving: Leave the research to us while you focus on planning your next steps.
• Stress-Free Experience: We simplify the process, ensuring a smooth transition into your new home.
• Access to Expertise: Our team leverages deep market knowledge to uncover hidden homes and secure the best opportunities.
Case Study: Bill & Theresa’s Downsizing Journey
Embracing the Next Chapter with Platinum Homes
Bill and Theresa purchased their executive family home brand new in 1995, where they spent 30 wonderful years raising their family and creating cherished memories. While they loved their home, they found themselves using less of the space as their lifestyle evolved. Retirement brought exciting new opportunities, but maintaining a large property no longer suited their needs.
After careful consideration, Bill and Theresa decided to release equity from their home and transition into a property that better fit their current lifestyle. Downsizing allowed them to embrace a new chapter—one with less upkeep, lower expenses, and more time to focus on the things they love, like travel, hobbies, and spending time with family.
With the guidance of Platinum Homes by Bridges, they found the perfect home that combined comfort, convenience, and financial freedom. Now, they are enjoying all the benefits of a right-sized home without the burden of unnecessary space.
“Platinum Homes made the whole process seamless. Their understanding, market expertise, and personal approach ensured that we found the right home for this new stage in our lives. We couldn’t be happier!”
Bill & Theresa, Platinum Downsizers
The Platinum Pathway to Downsizing
1
Define Your Goals
• Identify your main reasons for downsizing—whether it’s reducing living costs, simplifying your lifestyle, moving closer to family, or planning for the future.
• Consider the type of home and location that will best suit your next chapter.
Platinum Tip: Downsizing is about finding a home that enhances your lifestyle. Our experts can help you explore locations and property types tailored to your needs.
Create a Downsizing Plan
• Set a realistic timeline for selling, purchasing, and moving to keep the process organised and stress-free.
• Budget for key costs, including stamp duty, legal fees, moving expenses, and potential renovations.
Platinum Tip: Our team provides expert advice on market conditions, ensuring you achieve the best value for your sale and purchase.
Declutter and Organise
• Sort your belongings into ‘keep,’ ‘donate/sell,’ and ‘discard’ categories to streamline your move.
• Focus on what will truly add value to your new home and lifestyle.
Platinum Tip: We can recommend professional organisers or storage solutions to help make the process easier.
Market, Sell, and Purchase
• Work with a trusted estate agent to present your home in the best possible light and attract the right buyers.
Platinum Tip: Need repairs or installations in your new home? We can introduce you to trusted electricians, plumbers, or other tradespeople to make settling in stress-free. 1 2 3 4 5
• Set a competitive price based on market research and expert guidance.
Platinum Tip: We offer free, no-obligation market appraisals with years of experience across Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire.
Transition Smoothly and Settle In
• Use a reliable moving company to ensure a hassle-free move.
• Personalise your new home and make it work for your lifestyle.
Essential Downsizing Considerations
Financial Aspects
Inheritance Tax (IHT): Downsizing can reduce IHT liabilities, maximising the assets passed to your beneficiaries.
Finding the Perfect New Home
At Platinum Homes, downsizing doesn’t mean compromising. From stylish, easily manageable homes to luxury retirement properties, we offer an impressive range of options. We understand that downsizing for our clients often means seeking a refined, low- maintenance lifestyle without losing comfort and elegance.
Downsizing in Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire
The local markets offer strategic opportunities to capitalise on high-value homes and discover an ideal downsized property. Our expert agents at Platinum Homes provide valuable insights into the area, helping you make the right move with confidence.
Key Services we provide:
Property Valuation and Sales
We’ll ensure your current property achieves its maximum value with a smooth sales process, helping you make the most of your equity.
Tax and Inheritance Planning
Downsizing isn’t just a move; it’s a financial strategy. Our trusted partners will provide guidance on inheritance tax and other financial planning essentials to secure your family’s future.
Personalised Property Searches
Our team can identify suitable properties tailored to your requirements, acting as your personal property finder to ensure your new home is a perfect fit.
Will Review and Legal Advice
Connect with our network of legal experts to update your will and ensure your legacy is protected in line with your new circumstances.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Let Platinum Homes by Bridges help you make the most of your downsizing experience.
Contact us for a personal consultation and let’s begin your journey to a stylish, simplified lifestyle.
Book your downsizing consultation here.
Tel: 01252 975501
www.platinumhomesbybridges.co.uk pgascoyne@platinumbybridges.co.uk