Land lease communities are booming, with many people discovering the benefits of this $12 billion sector. One couple who made the move are Karen and Garry Dyer, who’ve settled into Halcyon Evergreen, a modern, architecturally designed community in Clyde, just 57km from Melbourne’s CBD.
Karen explained why they chose this lifestyle: “I’ve always been drawn to the idea of lifestyle living. The safety, the ease of lock-and-go – it matched exactly what we were looking for. We really feel like we made the right choice at the right time for us.”
At Halcyon Evergreen, they’re already enjoying the Stables Precinct, a social hub where they meet up with family, friends, and fellow homeowners. “The cinema was a hit with our granddaughter, and the rest of the family can’t wait to use it too,” Karen said. “We’re especially looking forward to the clubhouse – the pool, gym, and all the outdoor amenities will be amazing.”
Garry and Karen have also made new friends in the community, with neighbours who are always there to lend a hand. And their four-year-old Cavoodle has been getting plenty of attention from fellow residents. “The managers have been super helpful and approachable, and it’s nice knowing we have a supportive community around us,” Karen added.
The standout feature at Halcyon Evergreen is the clubhouse, a central gathering place in all land lease communities. Stockland is investing $13.5 million in the clubhouse, which will include a library, social dining areas, BBQ space with a pizza oven and firepit, and a health and wellness precinct. This will feature an indoor pool, outdoor spa, sauna, yoga deck, a gym, and even pickleball courts.
The Stables Precinct, which is already up and running, includes a fully equipped community kitchen, dining room, cinema, and games room – all great for socialising and entertaining.
James Westh, Stockland’s General Manager for Halcyon Victoria, explained why amenities like these are so important: “Today’s over-55s want more than just a home – they want a vibrant, connected community with quality facilities right on their doorstep. Halcyon Evergreen offers that in spades, with beautiful surroundings and plenty of opportunities to stay active.”
In land lease communities, homeowners own their home but lease the land it sits on. This model has become increasingly popular with retirees, with around 130,000 Australians now living in land lease communities, according to CBRE.