Moving to a retirement village is a major lifestyle choice. Visit as many different villages you can before deciding where to live. Not all villages are the same, so do your research to find the one that's right for you. Take your time and do not be rushed into a decision.

Before you start looking:

• Talk to your family and friends about moving into a retirement village.
• Consider your options like home help, government assistance, or moving to a smaller home.
• Ask a financial planner about the best way to manage your money. Also ask whether you will have enough funds if you need to move from the retirement village to an aged care facility.
• Think about whether you will enjoy living close to neighbours?
• Make a list of your needs and wants in a retirement village.
• Consider whether there are other down-sizing alternatives that better suit your needs, such as over 55-complexes.

Comparing retirement villages 

Retirement village contracts are different from regular residential property contracts. Before signing, take all relevant documents to a legal or financial adviser who understands these contracts. By law, you must be given a disclosure statement and a copy of the residence contract at least 10 working days before signing. See more on Retirement village contracts.

Life in the retirement village

• What is the policy on pets, visitors, and car parking? 
• Is it close to public transport, medical facilities, shopping facilities and entertainment? 
• What are the units like? Are there different types? Can you make any changes the unit?
• Does the unit have heating, air-conditioning, outdoor lighting, wide doorways and halls e.g. for wheelchair access?
• Is there a residents’ committee? How are members elected? 
• What is the process for resolving disputes? 

Maintenance and repaires 

• Is the village well maintained, secure, well-lit and safe?
• Can I get help with minor maintenance issues e.g. changing light bulbs or tap washers? Is there a charge?
• Who pays for maintaining capital items in the unit? These are built in items such as oven and air conditioner.
• Are residents involved in maintenance decisions?
• Are there any plans to redevelop the village or surrounding area?

Amenities and services

• What common facilities are available? Who pays for maintaining the facilities?
• What extra services are there? What is the cost? Such as a hairdressing salon, medical services, bar, swimming pool, bowling green and barbecue area. 
• Are there any restrictions on using the village facilities and your unit? 
• Does the village offer optional support services, like meals, cleaning, laundry and other personal services? Can these services be changed without your agreement? 
• Is there a common dining room? Can you bring your own meals? Can you invite guests? 
• What facilities are available if you become sick?

Leaving the retirement village 

• What is the cost of leaving? What are the exit fees? 
• Will you have to pay for the unit to be renovated or just return it to the condition it was in when you first moved in, fair wear and tear excepted?  
• When will you get your exit payment after leaving?
• Are there restrictions on selling your unit? For example, can you choose your own real estate sales agent?

Financial and legal check 

• Ask for a Form 1 or Form 1A disclosure statement
• Understand all the fees: entry, service, ongoing and exit fees.
• Check what government assistance is available and if it will affect your current benefits.
• How long does it take on average to sell or re-lease units in the village?
• What happens if you need to move to residential aged care?