Retirement Village, Land Lease and Downsizing FAQs in Brisbane

About My Service

How much do you charge?

I work on a transparent, fixed-fee basis. The fee depends on the level of support you need, and it's agreed in full before any work begins. No commissions, no hidden costs.

The simplest way to a clear quote is to book a free 30-minute conversation. We'll talk through what would help most and confirm the fee before anything starts.

Do you receive payment or commissions from Retirement Villages or Land Lease Communities?

No - Unlike many providers in this space, I don't receive commissions from the retirement village and land lease operators I may recommend. My independent and unbiased guidance means my recommendations are based purely on what's right for you, not financial incentives.

What experience do you have?

Hazel & Fred is led by Sam Price, a Registered Property Valuer and Licensed Buyer’s Agent with 25+ years of experience in the Brisbane and South East Queensland property market. Across 25 years in valuation and buyer’s agency Sam has helped many families find their next home and has supported his own family through retirement and aged care decisions.

Hazel & Fred brings property expertise and personal insight together to offer calm, independent guidance.

What areas do you cover?

I work across Brisbane and Southeast Queensland, including the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast, Ipswich, Logan, Redlands and Moreton Bay. My local knowledge is strongest in Brisbane, where I inspect most often. I travel further when the situation calls for it. If you're unsure whether I can support you in your area, just ask.

Do you only work with older Australians?

While many of my clients are planning for retirement or supporting a parent, I 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 or around Brisbane or South East Queesland?

Yes, I regularly support families working through decisions across different locations. I can inspect properties on your behalf, meet with your parent locally, and keep you up to date throughout.

Do you come to the property inspections with me?

Yes - I attend inspections with you, or on your behalf and help you ask the right questions. For retirement villages and land lease communities, I can also help arrange and review visits and offer a clear comparison afterwards.

Do you help with family conversations?

Yes - I’m often part of family discussions, especially when adult children are supporting a parent. I can help explain options clearly, act as a neutral third voice, and give everyone confidence.

What does a retirement village and land lease adviser in Brisbane do?

A retirement village adviser helps you compare your options, understand the differences between contract types, and make a confident decision about retirement living - without the pressure of dealing directly with village operators. At Hazel & Fred, I provide independent, commission-free advice based purely on what's right for you.

How is Hazel & Fred different from a retirement village and land lease operator?

Retirement village and land lease operators are sellers – they represent their own community and have a financial interest in you choosing them. Hazel & Fred is completely independent. I have no affiliation with any village or community, receive no commissions, and my only interest is helping you find the right option for your situation, lifestyle, and budget.

What's the difference between a land lease community and a retirement village in Brisbane?

In a retirement village you typically pay an entry price and sign a lease or licence agreement, often with deferred management fees on exit. In a land lease community you own your home outright but lease the land it sits on, paying a weekly site fee. Land lease generally offers more transparency around costs and stronger capital growth potential, but each model suits different needs. I can walk you through both in detail.

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?

Anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Some clients find the right option quickly. Others take their time, and I work at your pace.

What does your home sale service include?

I act as your vendor advocate. That means I 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?

I can connect you with reliable, local professionals - including downsizing specialists, home organisers and relocation support services. These are people I know and trust, and I 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, I can connect you with professionals I know and trust. You choose who to engage, and there’s no obligation or pressure.

About Retirement Villages, Land Lease Communities & Aged Care

Do you know all the retirement villages and land lease communities in the area?

I maintain the Lighthouse List, my proprietary database of retirement communities across Southeast Queensland. The list is built from direct provider contact and refreshed monthly. I’ve personally inspected many of the communities and reviewed their fees, contracts, and resident feedback, which means I can give you grounded, current insight rather than reading from a brochure.

Can I bring my pet to a retirement village or land lease community?

Some communities welcome pets, while others have restrictions or approval processes. I’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. I can connect you with trusted aged care professionals if that becomes necessary down the track.

Do you help people find aged care homes?

No, I don’t provide aged care placement services ourselves, but I can refer you to experienced, independent professionals who do. These are people I trust and who can guide you through the aged care system with care and clarity.

Can you help me understand the fees and contracts?

Yes - part of my role is helping you understand the entry, ongoing and exit fees associated with different retirement village contracts. I’ll walk you through the key terms and help you make sense of the fine print.

Different operators 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.

I help you understand what the disclosure documents are showing and where the costs sit. The contract itself goes to a specialist retirement village lawyer for review before you sign. I refer you to one when the time comes.

Are you affiliated with any retirement villages, land lease community or real estate agents?

No - I work independently. While some providers may offer a referral fee, my recommendations are based solely on your needs. Unlike many providers in this space, I don't receive commissions from retirement communities I may recommend. My independent and unbiased guidance means my 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. I 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, I can help.

Don’t see your question here?

I’m always happy to help. Just start the conversation and I’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.