
Thinking about downsizing or retirement living?
Here are some common questions we’re often asked.
FAQs
About Our Service
What experience do you have?
Hazel & Fred is led by Sam Price, a Registered Property Valuer and Licensed Buyer’s Agent with more than 25 years of experience in the property industry. Sam has helped hundreds of clients find their next home and has supported extended family through retirement and aged care decisions.
Hazel & Fred brings together professional expertise and personal insight to offer calm, independent guidance at every step.nt.
How much do you charge?
We work on a transparent, fixed-fee basis. Fees vary depending on the level of support you need - from light-touch advice to more involved help with buying, selling or exploring retirement living.
We charge a fixed fee for our advisory services, depending on the level of support you need.
For most clients, the fee is split into two stages:
An engagement fee is payable at the time we begin work together after our discovery call, and once your brief is confirmed.
The balance fee is invoiced once your tailored shortlist, summary report, or transition plan is delivered, based on the level of support you choose.
Our service packages typically range from $595 to $4,400 depending on your needs and level of support. Please contact us for a quote tailored to your specific situation
Do you receive payment or commissions from Retirement Communities?
Unlike many providers in this space, we don't receive commissions from retirement communities we may recommend. Our independent and unbiased guidance means our recommendations are based purely on what's right for you, not financial incentives.
What areas do you cover?
We’re based in Brisbane and support clients throughout South East Queensland. If you’re unsure whether we can help in your area, just ask.
Do you only work with older Australians?
Not necessarily. While many of our clients are planning for retirement or supporting a parent, we also help people of all ages who are seeking clear, independent advice during a life transition.
Can you help if I’m interstate and supporting a parent in Brisbane?
Yes — we regularly support families navigating decisions across different locations. We can inspect properties on your behalf, meet with your parent locally, and keep you up to date throughout.
Do you come to the property or village with me?
Yes, where possible. We can attend inspections with you, or on your behalf, and help you ask the right questions. For retirement communities, we can also help arrange and review visits, and offer a clear comparison afterwards.
Do you help with family conversations?
Yes — we’re often part of family discussions, especially when adult children are supporting a parent. We can help explain options clearly, act as a neutral third voice, and give everyone peace of mind.
About Downsizing, Buying & Selling
Is downsizing always about moving to a smaller home?
Not necessarily — downsizing really means “right-sizing” your home to suit what you need now. That might be a smaller house, villa, townhouse, apartment or even a retirement community. The goal is better lifestyle fit, not just fewer square metres. It’s about making a move that feels more manageable, comfortable and aligned with how you want to live.
How long does it take to find the right property or retirement community?
It depends on your preferences and timing. Some clients find the right option in a few weeks. Others take their time. There’s no rush — we work at your pace.
What does your home sale service include?
We act as your vendor advocate. That means we interview the best agents in your area, negotiate commission on your behalf, assist with presentation, and guide you through offer reviews, pricing decisions and contract terms — all while keeping your interests front and centre.
What if I need help with decluttering, moving or home preparation?
We can connect you with reliable, local professionals — including downsizing specialists, home organisers and relocation support services. These are people we know and trust, and we only recommend them if and when it’s helpful to you.
Do you refer clients to legal or financial professionals?
Yes. If you need support with legal matters, estate planning or retirement financial advice, we can connect you with professionals we know and trust. You choose who to engage, and there’s no obligation or pressure.
About Retirement Living & Aged Care
Do you know all the retirement villages in the area?
We maintain an extensive, independent database of retirement communities across Southeast Queensland. We’ve personally inspected many of them and have reviewed their fees, contracts and resident feedback — so we can offer grounded, helpful insight.
Can I bring my pet to a retirement village?
Some retirement communities welcome pets, while others have restrictions or approval processes. We’ll help you find pet-friendly options and explain what’s allowed.
What’s the difference between retirement living and aged care?
Retirement communities are designed for independent living, often for people aged 55+. Aged care facilities provide personal or medical support when more assistance is needed. We can connect you with trusted aged care professionals if that becomes part of the journey.
Do you help people find aged care homes?
We don’t provide aged care placement services ourselves, but we can refer you to experienced, independent professionals who do. These are people we trust and who can guide you through the aged care system with care and clarity.
Can you help me understand village fees and contracts?
Yes — part of our role is helping you understand the entry, ongoing and exit fees associated with different retirement village contracts. We’ll walk you through the key terms and help you make sense of the fine print.
Different villages use different ownership models — such as leasehold, licence or land lease. Each comes with its own structure around payments, responsibilities, resale rules and exit costs. It’s important to compare them carefully.
We provide guidance at inspections, help you ask the right questions, and refer you to independent legal professionals when it’s time for a detailed contract review.
Are you affiliated with any retirement villages or real estate agents?
No. We work independently. While some providers may offer a referral fee, our recommendations are based solely on your needs. Unlike many providers in this space, we don't receive commissions from retirement communities we may recommend. Our independent and unbiased guidance means our recommendations are based purely on what's right for you, not financial incentives.
Do I need to be retired to use your service?
Not at all. We work with people at different stages — from those thinking ahead to those making more immediate decisions. Whether you’re fully retired, semi-retired or just planning your next move, we can help.
Don’t see your question here?
We’re always happy to help. Just start the conversation and we’ll talk it through together. You don’t need to have it all figured out, one good question is often the best place to begin.
“There was so much to consider, and I didn’t know what questions to ask. Hazel & Fred helped me understand the differences between the villages and guided me through the details without making it feel overwhelming. I felt supported from the first phone call.”
Peter ~ Carina