The most common forms of occupation are licence, long-term lease, and strata title ownership. Zande Law will advise you on the type of contract,  your rights and responsibilities.

One of the biggest changes that happens in a person’s life, is moving to a retirement village. While most people understand the term “Retirement Village” as meaning a form of unit accommodation, it often comes as a surprise to find that there are different ways of “owning” or “occupying” a retirement unit.

Licence

Rather than buy the unit, the occupier signs a licence agreement . The developer remains the owner of the unit, but the occupier gives he developer a form of long-term loan or donation in return for the right to occupy. Part of the amount paid by the occupier may be returned if the occupier leaves. Some people prefer this form of accommodation because the cost of entry is low.

The main disadvantages with this form of occupation are the fact that the unit is not actually “owned” by the occupier.  Depending on the license agreement, the license rights may be capable of sale and if so the terms of the agreement will cover who receives the benefit of any capital gain or the burden of any capital loss.

Long-term Lease

Again, the unit remains the property of the developer, but the occupier is entitled to live in the unit pursuant to a lease, usually for 99 years. Leases are a more secure form of ‘ownership’ because leases are a property right giving residents an interest in their unit subject to the lease’s specific terms.

The rights and obligations of the occupier and the owner are set out in the lease, and a separate “service agreement” sets out the terms and conditions regarding the services provided. Usually a trustee company is appointed to take care of village finances, and a manager looks after the day-to-day management of the village.  As with licenses, the lease rights are usually capable of sale but this will depend on the terms of the agreement.

Strata Title Ownership

This is the most secure form of ownership, and is really the same as ownership of any other form of flat or unit accommodation. Each unit owner is a member of a body corporate, and has a direct say in the management of the village. While some will regard the security of outright ownership as important, others may see it as a burden and an unwanted responsibility. The cost of outright ownership is usually much higher than with a long-term lease or licence, and stamp duty on the purchase adds to the cost.

It is most important that any person considering the move to retirement village living spends some time considering their options and getting advice before committing to anything. In some cases strict time limits do apply.

Always seek the advice of an accountant and lawyer before signing any documents regarding occupation of a retirement village unit.

To talk to one of our lawyers ring (07) 3385 0999 or email your enquiry to info@zandelaw.com.au