Health and wellbeing benefits of downsizing
Downsizing the family home after the kids have left the nest is a major life milestone which comes with some surprising advantages that go beyond having less gardening and home maintenance to worry about.
If you’re considering making a downsizing move, you’re not alone, says Living Gems CEO Adrian Puljich.
“According to the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute, more than half of Australians over the age of 55 have either downsized or have thought about it,” he said.
“And that comes with some downsizing benefits that you may not have considered when it comes to rightsizing to an over-50s lifestyle resort like Living Gems.”
A sense of security living in a gated community
Living Gems resorts are gated communities.
“That’s great peace of mind, whether you are at home or travelling,” said Adrian. “But there’s more than just physical security, there is also the comfort of knowing your neighbours by name and that each resort has on-site resort management.”
Less maintenance and fewer responsibilities
Who loves spending precious weekends doing housework, mowing lawns and doing house maintenance? No one! Especially when you have other things you’d rather do.
“Quite a few of our homeowners have moved from family-sized homes or acreage property,” said Adrian. “They tell us that they’re enjoying more free time to pursue interests that are important to them, whether it is a new hobby or returning to a favourite sport.”
Active and social lifestyle
One of the biggest differences between a retirement village and an over-50s lifestyle resort is the number of ways homeowners can stay active and healthy.
Living Gems offers outstanding resort facilities for residents’ exclusive use, said Adrian.
“Typical amenities include heated swimming pools, pickleball courts, bowling greens, and more,” he said. “That’s not to mention the popularity of cycling, walking, as well as resident organised fitness classes including Zumba and aqua aerobics.
“But most important is the opportunities to make new friends.”
Financial security
Budgeting finances for this stage of your life is an important consideration, said Adrian.
“We believe that the land lease community model offers the fairest and most transparent downsizing opportunity for active over 50s,” he said.
“Unlike traditional retirement villages, land lease communities have no exit fees, deferred management fees, or hidden charges like capital gains fees, or refurbishment fees.”
People who buy into land lease communities own the home and simply rent the land that it is on. The right to occupy is protected by state government legislation. A modest weekly fee covers the site rental as well as the maintenance of the resort facilities.
The proceeds from your family-sized home can help bolster your retirement income, giving you a greater opportunity to enjoy the lifestyle you want, said Adrian.
“And there are other hip pocket benefits too,” he said.
“With great facilities right on the doorstep, many people have ditched the gym memberships to work out and play sport at the Country Club. And that’s not to mention the regular events and activities which can further reduce entertainment expenses.”
