A British couple has traded their retirement in the UK for an entire hamlet in France, purchasing the rural property together with their daughter's family. Helen Diaper, 76, and her husband Terry, 76, bought the hamlet of Lac De Maison in Poitou-Charentes, south-west France, after being convinced by their daughter Liz Murphy, 48, and her husband David, 57.
A Family Venture
The two families pooled their resources to acquire six 400-year-old houses, two barns, and three acres of land. Helen sold her four-bedroom property, and Liz sold her £400,000 three-bedroom Manchester home. Together, they purchased the hamlet for £450,000.
Since moving in, they have converted three of the properties into holiday lets, accommodating up to 19 guests, while also renovating their own homes. Helen and Terry now see their grandchildren every day instead of once every two months, a change they deeply cherish.
Why France?
Helen, a retired senior practice nurse from Nottingham, said: "It was a big surprise in many ways. I've always loved France and always wanted to be here, so Terry and I decided on a big adventure and to go for it." She added that the French lifestyle is less stressful than in the UK.
Terry, a retired computer programmer, noted that the French tax system is more favorable for pensioners, with tax deductions available for employing a cleaner, gardener, or caregiver. The family also beat the Brexit deadline to secure their new home.
Renovations and Life in the Hamlet
Liz and David have spent six years renovating the gites and extending their parents' home. Liz, a business owner from Altrincham, Manchester, said: "Now we've had five years really with lots of renovations and building work tackling issues and problems, but now we're able to sit back a bit."
The family lives mortgage-free, though they spent more than anticipated on renovations. Liz admitted: "We spent more than we thought we were going to. But everything we are putting into it is to future-proof it for others."
Future Plans
Despite the success, the family plans to move to a smaller home to better support Helen, whose health is declining. However, they are determined to stay together as a family unit. Liz summed up their experience: "It was blood sweat and tears, but worth it in the end, a change from being in the rat race."
