To down size or not to down size.

I wouldn't be without two bedrooms and/or a sofabed'- not used often, but people are welcome

I am with your wife on this subject, when you are both retired a one bedroom flat will not allow you space to have time apart. Yes you will need space, trust me.

I agree with the two bedroom route, unless you are happy to sleep on the couch!
Why not try to find somewhere near a travelodge or similar for family visits?
My parents live in a retirement flat and the block has a guest bedroom that can be booked for family.

Like liz46 we are currently sleeping separately due to health issues. As we get older it is useful to have the choice. Also Understand your wife about visiting children and grandchildren . Can you not look at a 2 bed option? Or equity release to allow you to stay where you are?

I agree with the advice to get a 2 bed if you possibly can for all the reasons specified. We find that as hotel chains like Premier lodge give very good deals if you book well in advance perhaps visitors can stay there.

I wouldn't want to move to a one bedroomed home. For the last few months I have been sleeping in the spare room because of health problems. I hope to move back into my normal bed soon but was pleased we had the extra bedroom.

A one bedroom flat will have reduced space in other rooms as well. I understand your wish to reduce outgoings but I think there could be some compromise here. You need to consider carefully how limited space would be for two of you. Good luck.

Lots of things to consider here. The one that has me thinking is your name, 'Garden man 99'. From this I assume that you like gardening. I might be wrong but I am under the impression that you do not get a garden with a flat. Do you have an allotment?
Brian.

I agree that your wife shouldn't just refuse without some discussion as to how you are to afford it- e.g both do part time work.
We really need more details about the size of your present house.

I understand that you are ready and want to retire, but are unable to because of this new extension and the financial burden this has placed on you.

How much longer does this mortgage have to run? And I’m guessing that a two-bedroomed flat will cost significantly more that a one-bedroomed one two.

If your wife is so determined to keep your present house then she ought to be prepared to take on work too so you can share the cost.

We downsized but not that small! I can see why she is refusing - you need family to be able to stay. We can still fit them all in at Christmas even though it is very squashed.

Good idea, suggesting a 2 bedroom as opposed to a one bedroom. I moved to a 2 bedroom house, and the second bedroom is small but it's a world of difference from just having one!

I’m wondering how big your current home is. Downsizing is about letting go of more than bedroom(s), it’s about a way of life and the contents of your home. I can understand your desire to finish a mortgage and stop work, I can also understand your wife’s desire to have space for family to stay. Would a two bedroomed property be manageable within your budget? As sunlover says that gives room for family but it also gives you and your wife space to live. One bedroomed flats can be very claustrophobic for a couple used to more space. Whatever you decide I hope you can come to an agreement taking account of the viewpoint of each other. Resentment isn’t the best way to begin a retired life together. I hope this can be worked out amicably, wishing you both well.

Could you not move to a two bed flat allowing family to still visit? We have recently moved into a two bed flat and absolutely love it.