Retirement villages provide independent accommodation for retirees (over the age of 55) and often include extra facilities and services such as swimming pools, libraries, tennis courts, meeting rooms, social activities and visits from healthcare professionals.

Why do people go into retirement villages?

Because retirement villages are purpose-built for older people, they offer many lifestyle and practical benefits. Residents enjoy a strong sense of community, feel safe and secure and can enjoy more quality time with family and friends.

Are retirement villages a good option?

One of the things you may wish to consider when you’re close to retirement is whether to stay in your home, downsize or move to a facility that can support your critical needs. But if you don’t require constant care and you prefer to live independently, retirement villages may be a suitable option.

How much does it cost to live in a retirement village UK?

This fee varies from village to village but is usually in the region of £500-£700 per month, although it can be as much as £1,000 at the top end establishments. This may sound steep, but even then, you may not find that all the facilities are included.

What is deferred management fee?

What is a Deferred Management Fee (DMF) and what does DMF mean for me? In a nutshell, DMF, or sometimes referred to as an exit fee or departure fee, is a one-off cost which isn’t payable until you leave your retirement village home – helping you offset the cost of retirement living by reducing the initial upfront cost.

Can you buy a house in a retirement village?

Purchasing an interest in a retirement village is not like purchasing a residential property. There is an ongoing relationship between the village operator and the resident which is governed by the terms and conditions set out in what is called an “Occupation Right Agreement”.

How do retirement villages make money?

Retirement villages make money in other ways Residents will usually pay a weekly village fee. In addition, operators can charge premium fees for higher quality rooms. Some operators have also started blending the occupation rights agreement into aged care creating ‘care suites’.

Are retirement villages a good idea?

What are the advantages of living in a retirement village?

Retirement villages also offer low maintenance living, easing pressure on seniors who no longer feel they can keep up with home and garden chores. Because retirement villages are purpose-built, the homes are designed to be easily maintained and the common areas are looked after by the operator.

Are lifestyle villages worth it?

Buying a home in a Lifestyle Village is more affordable as you do not own the land. There are other financial advantages of buying a home in a Lifestyle Village such as no council rates or taxes, no stamp duty and no strata maintenance. Eligible residents can also take advantage of government funded rent assistance.

What happens when you leave a retirement village?

In this case, you have a lease for a unit or property in the village, which remains in place until you die or leave the village. Some villages also offer rental units. The Retirement Villages Act 2003 protects people entering into and living in retirement villages.

Can you live in a retirement village in New Zealand?

About three-quarters of New Zealand’s retirement villages offer licences to occupy. A licence to occupy gives you the right to live in the unit, but it doesn’t mean you own the unit. This usually means that you can’t borrow against the value of the unit, though some villages may offer this option.

How to sign up for a retirement village?

This lists the steps to take when signing up to enter a retirement village. When you’re considering moving to a retirement village, download our free booklet here: Thinking of living in a retirement village? For general information about retirement villages, free phone 0800 268 269.

How are mortgages secured in a retirement village?

Mortgage back in favour of the resident – In some instances the resident makes an occupation loan to the retirement village owner. The resident’s loan is secured by a registered first and only charge against the title to the resident’s unit.