Retirement
There are several ways for people to own or occupy premises in a retirement village. People often occupy retirement villages under long-term leases, under license or through Strata Title Ownership.
Long Term Leases
Under a long-term lease, the occupier is entitled to live in the property for a period of time pursuant to the lease (commonly 99 years). The property developer maintains ownership of the property but the lease can be transferred by the occupier. Beyond the lease agreement, a service agreement sets out the terms and conditions regarding the services provided. Long-term leases usually call for a trustee company to be appointed to take care of the financial aspects whilst a manager is appointed for day-to-day village management.
Licenses
Under a license, the property developer again maintains ownership of the property but the occupier provides a long-term loan or donation in return for the right to occupy the property. This is a more cost-effective approach as the cost of entry is substantially lower. The downside to this approach is forgoing the benefit of capital gains the property attracts as the market matures.
Strata Title
Strata Title Ownership is the most secure form of occupation with the added benefit of body corporate membership, granting certain rights to contribute to the management of the retirement village. The downside to this approach is a higher cost of entry due to stamp duty on the purchase, however, the advantage is accruing capital gains on the property as the market further matures.
Residential Care Agreements
Perhaps you or a family member need a higher level of residential care and you’ve been given an enormous document to read and sign.
We understand how intimidating and how poorly written most of these contracts are.
Paul Hargrave has sat on a Board of a retirement village in Lane Cove for over 8 years. At Fox Cheshire, we know how to interpret these large agreements, and explain it in plain English.
What are you getting, what are your protections, and what is it going to cost. Ask us before signing anything.
We Can Help
At Fox Cheshire, we always recommend seeking the advice of an experienced lawyer whilst reviewing alternative retirement facilities and certainly prior to signing any documents regarding any purchase or occupation. We can also assist you with interpreting the Retirement Villages Act 1999 and can provide you with a full understanding of your legal position.
Contact us to find out more or to arrange a consultation with an experienced retirement property lawyer.