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Planning your move

Selling your home and moving to a retirement village is a major financial and emotional decision, so it's important to choose carefully. The key is finding a village that suits your lifestyle and future needs.

Start by listing what matters most to you, such as:

  • Will the location support my hobbies and help me stay connected with loved ones?
  • What facilities (e.g. gym, pool, theatre, golf course) match my lifestyle?
  • What social activities interest me (e.g. movie nights, shopping trips, wine clubs)?
  • Is the village pet-friendly?
  • What health, wellbeing, and support services are available?
  • If my situation changes, what aged care options are offered?
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Considering your next chapter? Retirement living suits those 55+ who want independence with the support of a like-minded community.
View available properties
When planning your move, know that eligibility starts at 55
Retirement living is available to people aged 55 or over, including their spouses or partners, who are retired from full-time work.
Consider how much social connection you want
Our communities offer choice – join in as much as you like, or enjoy your privacy. It’s entirely up to you.
Think about peace of mind and personal security
Feel reassured knowing you’ll have staff, neighbours, CCTV, and 24-hour emergency systems all in place to help you feel safe.

Steps to retirement living

This can be an exciting new chapter, though it may feel overwhelming. Whether you're moving yourself or helping a loved one, preparation makes all the difference. VMCH is here to support you every step of the way.

  • Find a retirement living community and home based on what’s right for you in terms of location, size, aspect and price. Shortlist villages that meet your criteria, book visits, and explore your options.

    Ask the team on the ground as many questions as you would like. This is a big decision, and we’re here to help.
  • Once you’ve decided on a home, you reserve it with a fully refundable reservation fee (minus retain legal costs). Following this you will receive the agreement. There is a 21 day cooling off period so you have time to review the agreement, if you choose not to proceed, your reservation fee will be refunded. No questions asked.
  • You will have an additional three-day cooling off period at this point. Should you change your mind, your deposit will be refunded in full, and the agreements terminated.
  • There is usually a few months between reservation and settlement, during which the move is organised. Our staff are available and experienced in supporting you during this transition. The balance of the agreed sale price is payable on settlement, after which you can begin living in your new home.
VMCH worker sitting on couch with elderly man looking through binder

Understanding the fees

Our communities operate under the Retirement Villages Act (Victoria) which exists to regulate the rights and responsibilities of both residents and operators. You will receive a fact sheet outlining the costs involved with moving into, living in, and leaving the community.

Like most retirement villages in Australia, VMCH offers residences on a long term lease, with an ingoing (sale) price, monthly fees and an exit fee (sometimes called a deferred management fee).

Once you’ve agreed on a sale price and arranged to move in, monthly service levies cover the cost of providing and maintaining the facilities and services that all residents share in. This generally includes staffing, maintenance of the common areas and gardens and the insurances and utilities relating to those facilities. These fees are passed on to you at cost.

The exit fee allows you to buy your home at a more affordable price than you would a traditional home, by deferring part of the payment until you leave the village. This leaves you with more money to enjoy your retirement now and you don't pay stamp duty on the sale.

Exit fees are calculated as a percentage of the sale price, or the original purchase price, depending on your agreement, and your length of stay. Our sales team can help you understand your particular situation.
By following these steps, you can ensure the move into retirement living is as smooth and positive as possible. And remember, you’re not alone – VMCH is here to help every step of the way.
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