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Four Retirement Living Options
As we get older, common thoughts arise about what suitable retirement living arrangements are available – do I need a smaller place? Do I want communal facilities? Do I have enough money to move? Do I need medical care? There are diverse retirement living options for over-50s in Australia; ranging from lifestyle resorts to traditional retirement homes, each with its unique ownership models, costs, and lifestyle perks, that’ll help you adjust to retirement best suited to your needs.
1. Traditional Retirement Villages
Traditional retirement villages feature self-contained villas, apartments, or townhouses in gated settings with shared amenities like pools, bowls greens, and clubhouses. Typically, homes in these complexes have high entry fees, deferred management fees (up to 25-35% on exit), and ongoing service charges. Regulated by state laws like Queensland’s Retirement Villages Act 1999, they suit those wanting community support without full-time care.
2. Land Lease Communities (Lifestyle Resorts)
In land lease communities, like Living Gems, you own your home outright but lease the site. Similarly, homes are set in a secure gated community, while residents have access to a wealth of resort-style facilities, including indoor pools, golf simulator, recreational spaces, barbecue areas, and more.
Protected under the Manufactured Homes Act 2003, contracts are simpler, letting you sell independently and relocate easily. It also gives seniors more financial flexibility and security; residents only need to pay a weekly site fee (those on pension may be eligible for a discount), avoiding stamp duty, exit fees, and DMFs. Plus, you retain 100% of the capital gains when you sell!
3. Rental Retirement Villages
Ideal for budget-conscious retirees, there are rental villas or apartments that give a taster to what village life is like, without having to commit fully. Homes in rental retirement villages can be leased weekly or fortnightly, however, availability is limited. Often in co-living setups, there are usually access to facilities but seniors benefit from minimal ownership risks—no exit fees, just notice periods.
4. Aged Care Facilities
As aged care facilities are designed for older people requiring physical or nursing support, there is a higher entry point and residents are subjected to ongoing service charges. There are usually no onsite facilities, its focus is more on providing medical care to aging residents.
Comparison of Key Options For Retirement
| Option | Ownership Model | Cost Structure | Best For | Amenities |
| Land Lease Resort | Own home, lease land | Weekly site rent | Active over-50s | Yes |
| Traditional Village | Buy/lease home + land | High entry + DMF/exit fees | Cost conscious | Yes |
| Rental Village | Rent fully | Weekly/fortnightly fees | Budget flexibility | Shared facilities |
| Aged Care Facility | Government-subsidised | Means-tested + daily fees | High medical needs | Full nursing, activities |
Choosing Living Gems Lifestyle Resorts
No one wants to be surprised by the costs along the way. Opt for Living Gems’ land-lease resorts with luxury low maintenance homes. All resort locations offer convenient access to nearby shops and beaches, it’s perfect for Queensland downsizers seeking freedom, connection, and 100% financial transparency in your home buying journey.
Check out our locations today
Living Gems Harris Crossing
