A guide to selling a property for caring fees

During the 36 years we’ve been serving the people of Eastbourne and Hailsham, we’ve supported many families selling property to help pay for care fees, often for care homes. 

This can be an extremely difficult time for everyone involved. You may be a homeowner who needs to fund care in your own home or your place in a care home. The person whose home it is may not be able to explain their wishes or express their feelings. 

Sometimes, there are many family members involved. Sometimes, you’re dealing with an awful lot on your own. Both situations come with their own challenges. 

We understand that it may involve more than the practicalities of selling a building. It can also mean coming to terms with new needs and responsibilities. The feelings of grief you may experience as you embark on this process can make it difficult to navigate. 

We never forget how overwhelming it can feel. And that’s why we can assure you you’ll always receive a patient, polite, and professional service should you decide to sell your home with us. 

Our aim is to help and guide you to make the best decision for you and your situation. 

After reading, you may find it helpful to have a no-obligation, no-pressure chat with us if you are facing this journey. 

If you are considering selling your home to fund the costs of care… Ensure you have checked with your council about what you’re entitled to before you begin the process of a property sale. Councils have a duty to ensure they signpost you towards the correct services, even if you are self-funding. This might mean funding for care within your home, a place in a care home, or specialised care provision. There are also other services available, like adaptations for inside your home. Care needs assessments from adult social services are free. They can support you to uncover the variety of options open to you. There are also carers’ assessments if you have a carer. 

The assessments can be very helpful to identify how your needs might have changed. It can be easy to downplay things, often because you are used to coping. You may think it’s just your family fussing over you. An independent opinion can be beneficial for clarity, as well as accessing any support. 

Although moving to a care home can feel like a big change, there are many advantages. 

There’s regular company, cleaning, and meals are taken care of for you. If you need it, you can have help with personal and nursing care (depending on the care home). It is also reassuring to know there are people around for you if you need them. 

We’ve put together a FREE GUIDE to answer all of your questions, such as: 

• Can I reduce my assets so they’re not part of a financial assessment? 

• If I put my property into a trust, will I avoid care fees? 

• I know the property needs selling. Where do I start? 

• I really don’t want to sell but I know I’m going to have to. What are the downsides if I delay? 

Call our friendly team on 01323 440678 for any advice or a copy of our guide.