From retirement and age care villages, to apartments, villas and townhouses, downsizing is becoming the new norm in regional and metropolitan areas. 

Wagga’s One Agency real estate agent Colin McGill said people are now preferring to downsize their home before they move into an aged care facility. 

“We’re seeing a lot more people wanting to downsize and there seems to be a new step from the traditional family raising their children and then the parents sell off and head to a retirement village,” Mr McGill said. 

“But now, a lot of people are deciding to downsize to a smaller villa, home, or even a caravan. 

“While some people enjoy the interaction at retirement villages, others are put off by the fees and charges, but it’s becoming a personal choice and there’s a bigger market now for villas and apartments.” 

However, Mr McGill said that finding those who are prepared to move on is a challenging aspect. 

“The hardest thing with people wanting to downsize is trying to find a balance between what they are giving up and their new smaller home,” he said. 

“We meet people who are just not ready to let go and transition from a big home to a home that might have only one or two bedrooms and a small yard; culling their furniture and possessions can be the hardest part.” 

The property agent said often people leave this step until too late. 

“While you need to be prepared, some leave it too late when their health takes a downturn and it’s too much to look after an old traditional home,” he said. 

“People need to be better prepared and make the choice before the choice needs to be made for them.” 

Villas on community titles are becoming popular options for retirees as they own their own lot and dwelling but share expenses and maintenance of driveways and lawns with other owners in the same complex. 

LJ Hooker’s sales consultant Jason Pearce said Wagga has a good supply of standard townhouse and unit style living. 

“However, there isn’t as much supply of townhouses with no upkeep required, like lawns and gardens to maintain or suitable caravan parking and accommodation, but we are starting to see the builders target this market,” he said. 

Mr Pearce said he has not noticed any issues with senior downsizing, however some retirement villages have waiting lists. 

“From what I’m seeing, people wanting to move into retirement villages don’t have to wait too long and larger facilities like Riverina Gums and Settlers always seem to have something available,” he said. 

Read more:

Manager of advocacy at Seniors Rights Service Pat Joyce said there are many benefits of downsizing. 

“Downsizing means you get rid of clutter and therefore it relieves stress and gives more control to people,” she said. 

“It also frees up time and makes room for other things, it is another step towards planning for their future and simplifying their lives.” 

Ms Joyce advised people to look at their options available and start the conversation with their family, friends and community. 

“We’re ageing rapidly because of the baby boomers and dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia.

“We need to be having these conversations and urging people not to wait too late until their forced to move and they lose the capacity.”