Ingenia Lifestyle

Helpful information

Here we have provided information and answers to frequently asked questions. 

When it comes to moving into an over 55s community, we know there are a lot of factors for you to consider. If you have a specific question, please contact us for more information. We look forward to hearing from you! All information supplied is correct at time of publishing and is subject to change at any time without notice.

  • What does an Ingenia Lifestyle over 55s community offer?

    Our communities offer you the opportunity to downsize and free up money so that you can make the most out of your new lifestyle choice. Our communities provide security and peace of mind with residents owning their own home, without the cost of buying the land, without paying any stamp duty and any complicated exit fees.

    Our residents have additional benefits including access to our Ingenia Gold Card discounts and the Ingenia Wellbeing Program delivering health and wellness benefits. Our communities offer you the freedom to live within a private and peaceful environment with like minded neighbours while having the support from our village management team making it an easy, safe and affordable choice for over 55s.

  • Do I own my home?

    Yes, you own your home and lease the land through a site agreement.

  • How much are the site fees and what do they cover?

    Site fees vary between our communities and cover a variety of costs associated with running and maintaining the community. This includes but is not limited to: your site rent, the use of all community facilities, maintenance costs of the community facilities, community gardens and streetscapes.

    Council rates and village management costs are also covered, as well as the variety of staff that look after the community including a village manager and grounds staff. For more information on site fee costs and what they cover, contact the community you are interested in for more information.

  • Will I be eligible for rent assistance?

    In most cases residents who receive a government pension are entitled to receive rent assistance which in effect will help reduce you weekly site fees.

    As an example a single pensioner can receive up to $140.80 per fortnight* (which could reduce the weekly site fees down to $55 – $105 per week) depending on your personal circumstances.

    *For more information about how rent assistance is determined and calculated please visit the Rent Assistant page on the servicesaustralia.gov.au website.

  • Will the site fees increase?

    Site fees are reviewed annually in line with the relevant State legislation.

  • How secure is my site agreement?

    As a resident, you are protected by the Residential Land Lease legislation in that state and your tenure is secured under this legislation. The owner of the community is required to honour all the obligations and comply with the provisions of the Residential Land Lease Communities legislation. For more information please speak with our Community Sales Manager.

  • Are there exit or deferred management fees (DMF)?

    No, there are no exit or deferred management fees. Any capital gains achieved is yours to keep. If and when you decide to sell your home you can list with a real estate agent or we can sell your home on your behalf.

  • Are there any body corporate fees?

    No, there are no body corporate charges, no council rates and no entry or exit fees.

  • Do I pay stamp duty when I purchase?

    No, there are no government charges such as stamp duty or additional costs for preparing contracts.

  • Do I pay a legal fee?

    No, however, you’re more than welcome to consult a solicitor should you choose or require assistance.

  • Are there any other additional fees?

    No, the only other outgoings are your own gas, electricity, water (some communities include water within your site fees), and phone.

    When comparing living costs between a large family home versus downsizing to an over 55s community, everyone’s situation is different. We normally find people are better off per month after downsizing, plus they have freed up equity from the sale of their home.

  • What will happen to my pension?

    Moving to an over 55s community can affect your pension entitlement and eligibility for rent assistance. You may get less or you may get more. For many people their pension will remain the same and they will become eligible for rent assistance, which they didn’t receive before.

  • Does a guarantee or warranty come with my home?

    Yes, all homes come with a minimum six-year warranty to meet statutory requirements within the relevant state. All other warranties and guarantees within the home are passed on to you at the time of moving into your home.

  • Can I have visitors such as family and friends stay with me?

    Yes, your guests are welcome to enjoy the facilities and activities. For longer stay guests, consent from the community management is to be obtained.

  • Can I have pets?

    Most of our communities are pet friendly for animals up to 10kg, however, all communities are different so please ask the community management for more information.

  • Can I bequeath my home in my will?

    Yes, the home becomes part of your estate. Your beneficiaries can reside in the community if they meet the criteria, or they may simply sell the home.

  • Will there be a care package if I need one?

    Yes, wellbeing and care programs for residents are available in most communities and deliver tailored information, advice and care coordination to improve health and wellbeing.

Do you have a specific question?

Our team are looking forward to getting to know you!