Renting in your 70s – when there is no where to go

Some of you travelled with me on my renting journey over the years. And for any new readers, before you jump into judgement, I have worked all my life, in fact I still do. I have owned homes before but when my marriage ended I was unable to buy another home due to my single status and small deposit. So I am no bludger sitting on my bum and expecting the nanny state to care for me.

I’ve had the joy of living on a bush block for the last eighteen months and by the end of the year will have to think of where to go next when the owners return. Now, I have loved living here, being close to family and enjoying all of the joys of nature, but every time you move your stuff, it costs several thousand dollars and also you need six weeks rent in advance, which includes a four week bond. This is fine, but when moving is a constant thing hanging over you, it is hard to feel settled, and the drain on your finances is huge. Also there is a housing crisis so options are few and far between.

I don’t expect handouts or offers of pity, what I would love to see is a government scheme (either state or federal) where pensioners can rent a decent little place until the time comes for them to move to supported accommodation. I know there are places where this does happen, but they are few and far between and there is a huge thirty year waiting list in my area. And you have to be eligible. Does eligible mean sleeping in your car? Hmm

Anyway, a long time dream of mine has been to have the funds to buy an old motel set up and have aging people live there without the threat of being evicted. They would pay their way, and some shared responsibilities such as meeting up once a week for chat, possible sharing of a vehicle, even cooking for others when needed. It would foster the sense of community and independence, where people would feel that they still have control over their lives. Of course, it would have to have rules, but I see it as being a win/win situation. But sadly I don’t buy lotto tickets so I will have to keep praying.

I know for a fact that some elderly people have to sleep in their car when homeless. This is a tragedy to me. Also, my car is very small and I don’t know how I’d be able to lie down in it. Let’s pray it never happens. I’m pretty sure it will be fine and something will turn up. I have been looking into assisted living places, but they are hugely expensive and you can’t cook your own meals. But I’m glad they suit other people. A friend and I were chatting the other day and we thought of about 5 old ladies living in one house, and sharing our space. It could work, but I feel that in reality we get used to our own ways and sharing a space with a lot of others might be stressful.

So what solutions are out there? Small community villages built for people to rent, not buy would be wonderful. Tenants would have the security of staying put but would pay a market rate to have the security of living there for as long as they needed to. I’m sure many of you have other ideas. I’m a fan of small spaces, studios and tiny homes. Granny flats can be wonderful. You can be independent and have your own space but have company nearby.

Let’s brainstorm this. I’d love to hear your ideas.