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Apartments
If you’re choosing to move into a retirement community, there are many home options to choose from, including a low-maintenance apartment.
Ranging from one-bedroom to multi-room penthouses, retirement apartments can be a great option for those who want quality features and appliances without worrying about too much upkeep. Often those looking to downsize from larger homes find that apartment life can be much easier.
Retirement community apartments are single storey and often accessible via a lift. You may also have the option of an underground carpark.
Generally featuring open-plan spaces and balconies that can overlook communal grounds or provide beautiful views, apartments can be a simple luxury for a minimal lifestyle.
You could be spending your days as you please, with smaller living spaces and the added security and sense of belonging of a retirement community.
Apartments can also be located within cities, providing those who love the urban life with the ongoing excitement of all that cities have to offer - right there, close to the action.
Benefits of apartments
When you're choosing your new retirement home, you’ll want to consider how you plan to enjoy your lifestyle. You'll also need to make sure your new home suits your needs now and into the future.
Consider what's important to you. How much space and storage do you need? Do you want a garden? Is your pet coming with you?
If you're struggling to keep up with the demands of a larger home, downsizing into an apartment could work for you. With a smaller space to manage, apartments can be a great solution for retirees looking to scale back and simplify life.
With compact kitchens, quality appliances, and smaller floorplans, you can cut down on all the chores.
You'll also be able to enjoy a variety of community features, and have the added flexibility to lock up and leave when life calls for a holiday. Apartments are low-fuss, modern housing that can work for you.
Apartment options
From compact studios within city high-rises to spacious multi-room penthouses, there's plenty of variety to choose from when it comes to apartment living. It all comes down to what works for you, and, of course, your budget.
Apartments will be single level and often boast open-plan living layouts, light-filled spaces and high-quality fixtures and fittings. These properties are wide in range and offerings, with some featuring beautiful airy balconies, modern kitchens, and multiple rooms to have the family over. In addition, neutral interior design features are common, providing you with the ability to decorate to your tastes and make the space your own.
Retirement apartments are designed with your accessibility and safety in mind. Elevators within apartment buildings will allow for easy access into your home, making for a safe living environment for all residents with mobility needs.
Renovations and updates
You'll often have the flexibility to renovate your apartment, but you’ll likely need to seek approval from your retirement community manager first.
There are often policies in place to protect the safety and comfort of all residents and to safeguard the aesthetic qualities and structural integrity of the buildings.
If you’ve been given approval for a renovation, you’ll find that work must be carried out by qualified, registered tradespeople holding appropriate licences and insurances.
Always speak with your retirement community about its renovation policy.
Getting help at your apartment
If you need a little more support to stay living at home, you can apply for a government-subsidised Home Care Package. You may be able to access services to visit your apartment and help you with things like cleaning, grocery shopping, dressing and showering, in addition to health care and other needs. Find out more about Home Care Packages.
Property features
- Elevators within apartment buildings
- Single-storey living
- Modern kitchen, bathroom and living area
- Balcony or courtyard
- Thoughtfully designed bedroom/bedrooms
- Quality fixtures and finishes
- Built-in wardrobes and storage
- Air conditioning
- Secure basement parking
- Intercom & secure access.
Maintenance inclusions
- Cleaning and upkeep of communal areas and facilities including BBQ areas, a pool, lounge and dining spaces and many more
- Building maintenance - common areas, foyer, carpark.
Care and support services
These will vary depending on the retirement community, but may include:
- 24/7 emergency call system
- On-site staff
- Help at home - care and support services available.
Insurance and utilities
These will vary depending on the retirement village, but your property may include:
- Building insurance
- Council rates
- Other service charges.
Speak with your retirement community about electricity, water, internet and other connections. You may be in an embedded network, but they will be able to let you know.
Support services
- 24/7 emergency call system
- Community staff
- Visiting health & wellbeing professionals*
- Dedicated care offering