Hi Jacey.So sorry to hear of your wife's increasing problems with arthritis.A stairlift was something we considered about 2 years ago,due to my wife's increasing pain and immobility due to arthritis spreading to a 2nd hip.She already had 1 hip replacement at this stage.After a few cancellations with the 2nd hip operation,eventually she had the 2nd hip replaced in August last year.However,we had checked out the stairlift possibility.If you check various websites you will find that you can get stairlifts for straight run staircases or 90 degree bend staircases. Having had experience of stairlifts in various premises, I can tell you that they are fairly compact.Yes,they do take up space but the seats usually fold into an upright position.I think you will find a stairlift is much cheaper than stamp duty on a future home purchase.There is a company at Beddington that could advise you.They also S+F new and used stairlifts and also fit and rent them,especially useful if the situation is short term.I will not name the company in case I contravene the board policy,but I am sure you will be able to google it.As always,other companies will also assist you.
I wish your wife all good fortune for the future.

We had this problem with my Mum a couple of years ago.

We had a chap come round, measure up and it it only took a day to fit.

We chose a Stanna as it game with a decent spec and warranty.

It compact enough that when the seat is folded you can still use the stairs.

It is powered by rechargeable batterieswith a decent storage.

Only problem? My mother is very old school and has an annoying habit of unplugging everything so we we have had to rescue twice where she has unplugged the system and it has run down!

Very amusing!!

However,is the new faster version safe and also,I assume the cost for a straight stair case installation still remains in the region of £2000 ??
Thank you all for your valuable replies.