You might have seen the TV ads, leafed through the glossy brochures, or visited the community’s website. It all looks perfect, right? But before making any big decisions, it’s absolutely vital that you – and your closest family or friends – visit the retirement village or land lease resort in person.
Choosing a new home is a major life step. It’s not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about your future lifestyle. Like when you’re looking at a new house, you want to make sure it suits your tastes, it’s in the right location, and the surroundings feel right.
And then there’s the community itself. What kind of social events are held? Can you use the tennis court whenever you want, or do you need to book ahead? How often is the pool cleaned? Who takes care of the gardens outside your door? Who’s allowed to drive through the gates?
Meeting with a sales manager is a crucial part of this process. But don’t worry – it’s not about making an immediate commitment. It’s about helping you gather the information you need to make a confident, informed decision about your future.
A good sales appointment focuses on you – your lifestyle, your needs, your dreams. Whether you’re after a close-knit community, low-maintenance living, extra support, or just want to downsize, this is your chance to share your goals and ask any questions, without pressure.
This personal conversation helps the sales manager tailor recommendations to what really matters to you – no one-size-fits-all here.
See beyond the brochure
Websites and brochures only tell part of the story. When you visit, you’ll walk the grounds, soak up the atmosphere, and get a real feel for the community. Maybe you’ll catch a game of lawn bowls or have a chat with staff or residents.
If you like, your consultant can even invite you to a social event – like a happy hour or morning tea –so you can experience village life firsthand. There’s no substitute for this kind of insight when picturing your future home.
Learn about the community
Visiting in person often changes people’s assumptions about village life – both the good and the not-so-good. This first appointment lets you explore shared spaces, discover daily activities, and understand how the village supports independence, wellbeing, and social connection.
There’s much more to life in a retirement village or land lease resort than just the buildings.
Understand the financial side clearly
One common question is how village contracts work – and what fees you’ll pay now and in the future. Your sales manager should walk you through the contract and all costs clearly, answering any questions honestly.
Even if you’ve done plenty of homework, hearing everything explained in person and in relation to your own situation is invaluable.
Compare your options
Visiting different villages helps you understand what each offers. If the community you tour isn’t quite right, your consultant might suggest another nearby that could suit you better.
Remember, this is a conversation, not a decision. You’re not expected to commit on the spot. The goal is to explore your options and feel confident about your future.
Just like you’d get three quotes before buying a new appliance or repainting your house, it’s wise to shop around with retirement villages and land lease communities. Prices and offerings vary – and every community has its own unique vibe.
Visiting in person is the best way to make sure your next home is truly the right one for you. Take your time, ask plenty of questions, and trust your instincts.