FAQs

Explore our answers to the most commonly
asked questions about life at Esperance.

About retirement villages

We understand that researching retirement options can be a complicated process and that it’s important to have all the information upfront to help make a well-informed decision.

Here we provide a summary of the most frequently asked questions that we answer in relation to entering, living in and leaving a Reside Communities’ village.

We always recommend that you take appropriate legal and financial advice before signing any retirement village contract.

View our Village Comparison Document for more information.

What is a retirement village?

A retirement village is a residential community that is specifically designed and built for older people. Generally, retirement village residents are retired from full-time work and are 65 years of age or older.

Retirement villages are different from aged care facilities and are suited to residents who are able to live independently.

In Queensland, retirement villages are regulated by the Retirement Villages Act 1999 (Qld) (the Act) and the Retirement Villages Regulation 2018 (Qld).

Are pets allowed?

We know pets are an important part of our residents’ lives and families, which is why they are welcome to move in with their owners once approved.

What are the monthly fees?

A key cost associated with living in a retirement village is the payment of monthly fees. The monthly fees cover:

  • Land and water rates
  • Building insurance
  • Village garden and landscaping upkeep
  • Operation of village facilities
  • Services provided to all residents (excluding any optional user-pays services)
  • External building maintenance
  • Maintenance within the resident's home
  • Maintenance and repair of fixtures and fittings within the home

The monthly fees do not cover electricity, gas, contents insurance or any personal expenses such as telephone, internet, health care and living expenses.

As the scheme operator, Reside Communities does not and cannot make a profit from the payment of the monthly fees.

Do I have to pay stamp duty?

No, under current legislation residents do not pay stamp duty to live in a home in a leasehold retirement village (like those owned and operated by Reside Communities).

How does living in a retirement village differ from living in an ordinary house or unit?

Living in a retirement village is very different from living in an ordinary home. After decades spent in home ownership, many of our residents seek a place to retire where they don’t have to worry about maintaining and repairing buildings and looking after a garden.

Retirement village residents also have access to and enjoy a range of services and amenities that are exclusive to residents living in the retirement village. Another key benefit of living in a retirement village is being among a community of people at the same stage of life, not to mention the peace of mind and sense of security this brings.

Many retirement village residents appreciate having regular opportunities to socialise with others – either through incidental contact or organised social activities and events – without having to leave the village.