Downsizing is one of the biggest financial and lifestyle decisions Australians will ever make. Now, with the launch of TrueCost powered by Village Guru, buyers can move forward with confidence, knowing the real costs of their move upfront.
For too long, Australians considering downsizing to a retirement village, over 55s living options, or seniors housing have faced confusion over fees, contracts, and Age Pension impacts.
TrueCost changes that. TrueCost provides a clear breakdown of the financial implications of moving — from entry and ongoing costs to exit fees and pension impacts.
“Downsizing isn’t just about moving into a smaller home, it’s about setting yourself up for the next chapter of life,” says Rachel Lane, Director of Village Guru and respected retirement living commentator.
“With TrueCost, buyers don’t have to navigate that complexity alone — they can see, compare and plan their move with clarity and confidence.”
How TrueCost Works
When buyers see the TrueCost symbol on a Premiere listing on Downsizing.com.au, they can access a Village Guru Report. A Village Guru report provides them with clarity on:
● How much it costs to move into the village
● Ongoing fees while living there
● Exit fees when leaving
● Impacts on Age Pension and Rent Assistance payments
● Home Care costs
● How much money is returned (and how soon) after departure
● The ability to compare up to 3 scenarios side-by side
By integrating the TrueCost powered by Village Guru reports directly into listings, buyers can make informed choices before stepping through the front door.
Why It Matters
● Clarity: No hidden surprises when it comes to retirement village costs.
● Confidence: Buyers understand how their financial future will look.
● Choice: Easy comparisons help consumers find the right downsizing option for them.
For property seekers, it provides confidence. For families supporting a loved one’s move, it means clarity.
Expert Guidance to Support Downsizers
The launch of TrueCost is backed by a full program of education, including a series of articles authored by Rachel Lane:
- What Will Downsizing Really Cost?
- Supersize Your Downsize
- Top 5 Downsizing Tips
- Am I a Homeowner?
- How Much Can You Have and Still Get the Age Pension?
These articles will feature on-site launching 1 September, designed to guide you directly to listings with TrueCost reports.
Find Homes with TrueCost Today
TrueCost is available exclusively on our Premiere listings. From 1 September, look for the TrueCost symbol when searching retirement villages, downsizing homes for seniors, and over 55s housing online.
