Retirement Villages: What to Know Before You Start Looking

Choosing a retirement village isn’t just about property, it’s about lifestyle, priorities and peace of mind. But with so many options (and so much fine print), getting started can feel overwhelming.

At Hazel & Fred, we meet many people in this early stage: curious, cautious, and unsure where to begin. This guide is here to help.

What is a retirement village?

A retirement village is a community designed for people aged 55+ who want to live independently, with access to shared facilities, social connection and (sometimes) support services.

Most villages offer units or villas you can live in privately, while also giving you the option to join in social events, activities, or meals if you wish. They are not the same as aged care.

Some feel like peaceful neighbourhoods. Others are more like a resort. The right choice depends on how you want life to feel, now and in the future.

Before you start visiting villages, consider this:

1. What kind of lifestyle do you want?

Quiet or active? Private or social? Do you want a garden, pet-friendly space, or walkability to shops and transport?

2. What’s your budget and what are the real costs?

Village contracts can be confusing. Entry prices, weekly fees, exit fees, and capital retention vary widely. Some use a Deferred Management Fee (DMF) model. It’s important to understand how it works before you commit.

3. Do you want care available later?

Some retirement villages have co-located aged care or offer increasing support as your needs change. Others don’t. Planning for future needs can save stress down the track.

4. Where do you want to be?

Think about proximity to family, healthcare, community connections, and the type of environment you want - leafy and quiet, or central and connected.

5. Are you comparing apples with apples?

Every village is different. Comparing them side-by-side helps you make a clear, well-informed decision based on what actually matters to you.

Where independent advice makes a difference

Many villages have helpful sales staff, but they work for the village. At Hazel & Fred, we work for you.

We help you understand the differences between contracts, compare options clearly, and offer calm, personal guidance, with no pressure, no commissions, and no sales agenda.

You might be ready to move, or just starting to explore. Either way, we’re here to help you feel more confident and in control.

What we offer:

• Clarity on the pros and cons of different contract types

• Shortlists tailored to your budget, lifestyle, and location preferences

• Accompanied inspections (or we can attend on your behalf)

• Clear summaries comparing options side-by-side

• Calm, honest support at every step

At Hazel & Fred, we’re here to help you explore your options with confidence. No pressure. No hard sell. Just honest, independent advice from someone who’s helped many Brisbane families do the same.

Whether you’re ready to start planning or just thinking it through, Hazel & Fred is here to offer friendly, independent downsizing advice in Brisbane. No pressure, just thoughtful guidance to help you feel confident about your next move.

Always happy to book a free discovery call when the time’s right.