Δ
Thinking about making the move to a retirement village is a big decision, and a very personal one. It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and uncertainty. That’s why your first appointment with a village sales consultant is all about making things clearer, more comfortable and to give you a taste of village life.
Here’s a closer look at what you can expect during this important first step toward your next chapter.
Your appointment begins with a relaxed, friendly conversation. This is your chance to share what matters most to you. This will include your lifestyle, your preferences and what you’re hoping to find in a retirement community.
Your consultant will ask a few simple questions to get to know you better, such as:
This chat is about understanding your goals so your consultant can guide you in the right direction.
Once your consultant has a better idea of what you’re looking for, you’ll take a guided tour of the village. This often starts with a visit to the community centre. Here, you’ll see the heart of village life in action and may have the opportunity to meet some of the friendly faces who call the village home, as well as team members and even the village manager.
You’ll explore shared spaces like lounges, gardens and activity areas, places where friendships are formed and community life thrives. It’s a great way to imagine how village living could suit your day-to-day lifestyle.
After soaking in the village atmosphere, you’ll be shown some of the available homes. This is your chance to see what the living spaces look and feel like. You’ll be able to discover whether they align with what you’re after. By this point, you’ll have a fuller picture of what village life is like, which will help you make more confident choices.
Throughout your visit, you’ll meet some of the team members who help make the village a welcoming, supportive place. This could include the village manager, maintenance people and, possibly, the care team. It’s an opportunity to see the people who’ll be there to support you, should you choose to make the move.
Toward the end of the appointment, your consultant will walk you through the financial details, these include management fees, ongoing costs, exit fees and how the resident contract works. Even if you’ve done a bit of research already, this is your chance to ask questions and get clear, honest answers. The legal and financial aspects of a retirement village purchase are quite different to a residential property purchase, so this is your opportunity to find out more. No pressure, just helpful information, explained simply.
Exploring other options
If you find the village isn’t quite the right fit, your consultant may be able to suggest other nearby RetireAustralia communities. You might be able to learn about other nearby villages that offer something a little different, so you can compare and find the best match for your lifestyle.
There’s no need to come prepared with all the answers. Just bring your questions, your curiosity and an open mind. Whether you’re just starting to explore or already have a few ideas in mind, your consultant is there to support you at every step.
This first appointment is all about you. It’s a chance to explore, connect and start imagining what life could look like in a welcoming, well-supported community. You’re not just visiting a place, you’re taking the first step toward finding a home that truly fits your next stage of life.
RetireAustralia owns and operates retirement villages in 29 unique urban, seaside, tree-side and regional locations.