There are over 2,000 retirement villages in Australia in all shapes and sizes – from gated resort-style communities to vertical high-rise apartments.
Plenty of options – but it also makes finding the right village a difficult task.
“There’s a myriad of questions that need to be answered, and boxes that need to be checked before someone is ready to make the move,” he says.
So, what are the major factors you need to think about?
1. Location
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
Location will be a big factor in your final decision, and it’s a great place to start.
Analyse your situation. Are you moving because you want a sea or tree change? Or is it more important to stay well-connected to family and friends?
“You need to go where you want to be,” he says.
“Just because you say, ‘I guess we better go and live near the children’, doesn’t necessarily lead to a successful conclusion.”
2. Lifestyle
Just as important is where you’re planning to live, is how you’re planning to live.
One thing that villages do particularly well is lifestyle, and most have events programs with regular activities. But, as Bob says, these settings aren’t for everyone.
Think about the lifestyle you want in five to 10 years’ time.
How does the village you’re considering fit into this?
“If someone’s introverted as far as getting out there with other people, we wouldn’t be looking at a resort with a clubhouse or tennis courts, we’d be looking at something a little bit more in line with their sort of lifestyle,” he says.
3. Living situation
It’s also worth thinking about the future living situation.
Perhaps you have a partner with a condition that means they need regular care? Or maybe you need extra space for when your extended family come to visit?
Villages cater for most settings, but it’s important to be honest about what you need.
Bob says this ensures you won’t find yourself in a situation with a property beyond your means.
“It’s really important that people realise that when it comes to retirement living choices it is all about your choice, but you do need a realistic framework,” he says.
The key is research
The amount of choice is vast, but it can also be overwhelming.
Bob says research gives you the confidence to make the right informed decision.
“This ensures you save time and money,” he says.
