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When it’s time to downsize or move into a more manageable home, two common options often come up: retirement villages and lifestyle villages. While they may sound similar, they offer very different experiences — especially when it comes to contracts, fees and levels of care.
If you’re weighing up the right choice, this guide will break down the essentials and show you what makes Hampshire Villages’ lifestyle communities such a popular option for Australians over 50.
What Is a Retirement Village?
Retirement villages are purpose-built for older people typically aged over 55 and may offer both independent living and support services. They are often chosen by those who anticipate needing extra care in the future.
Key features of retirement villages:
- May include low-care or assisted-living services
- Contracts are often complex
- Exit or deferred management fees (DMFs) are common when leaving
- Residents may need to pay stamp duty and council rates.
For some, these villages offer peace of mind. But for others, the higher costs and ongoing fees can feel restrictive.
What Is a Lifestyle Village?
Lifestyle villages — also known as land lease communities — are designed for independent Australians over 50 who want a simpler, more affordable way to downsize.
At Hampshire Villages, our lifestyle communities are built to give you freedom, connection and peace of mind. You own your home and lease the land beneath it, which means:
- No stamp duty, no council rates, no deferred management fees.
- Your home is yours to decorate, bequeath or sell — and any capital gain is yours to keep.
- If you’re on the pension, you may be eligible for Commonwealth Rent Assistance.
Lifestyle villages are all about independence and community, making them ideal for people who want to enjoy their retirement on their own terms.
What Hampshire Villages Offer
Choosing Hampshire Villages means choosing more than just a home — it’s a chance to enjoy a lifestyle that feels easier, friendlier and more secure.
1. Financial Freedom and Simplicity
- No stamp duty, no council rates, and no hidden levies
- Clear, predictable site fees
- Retain your capital gains when you sell.
This gives you financial confidence and often frees up equity from your family home, leaving more in your pocket to enjoy retirement.
2. Welcoming Communities
- Designed for independent over 50s
- Friendly neighbours who look out for one another
- A safe, supportive atmosphere where you can join in as much or as little as you like.
Many of our residents say they’ve found a new sense of belonging and connection since moving into a Hampshire Village.
3. Resort-Style Facilities
Depending on the location, you might enjoy:
- Swimming pools and bowling greens
- Clubhouses, craft rooms and men’s sheds
- Community gardens and BBQ areas
- Gated entry and, in many villages, staff available 24/7 for added peace of mind.
These facilities make it easy to stay active, social and connected.
4. Pet-Friendly Living
We understand pets are family. Many of our villages are pet-friendly, so you don’t have to downsize your lifestyle without your furry companion.
5. Lock-Up-and-Leave Lifestyle
With maintenance taken care of and secure village settings, you can simply lock up and head off on your next adventure — knowing your home is safe while you’re away
Which One’s Right for You?
Your choice will depend on your priorities:
Choose a Lifestyle Village if you want:
- A simpler, more affordable way to downsize, are fully independent and may still be working
- To keep capital gains and experience clear predictable fees
- A social, active community surrounded by like-minded individuals
- The freedom to travel knowing your home is safe and secure.
Choose a Retirement Village if you want:
A focus on village services and access to different levels of care
Generally for those who have stopped working so the average resident age may be older than that of a lifestyle village, something to check when doing your research.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Both retirement villages and lifestyle villages offer pathways to simplify your home and embrace community living. The key is finding the option that matches your lifestyle, financial goals and future needs.
At Hampshire Villages, we’re here to make the decision easier. Our lifestyle communities are designed for Australians over 50 who want independence, security and more time for the things they love.
Why not take the next step today?
- Browse our villages to see what’s nearby
- Visit a community and experience the welcoming atmosphere for yourself
- Talk to our friendly team about how land lease living could work for you.