What to Look For in a Land Lease Development

Part 5 of our editorial series: "Living the Land Lease Lifestyle"

Choosing a land lease community isn’t just about affordability — it’s about finding the right fit for your lifestyle, priorities, and long-term needs. With more developments appearing across Australia, knowing what to look for will help you make a confident and informed decision. 

1. Location, Location, Lifestyle

• Proximity to amenities like shops, healthcare, and transport

• Natural surrounds (coast, bush, rural or metro-fringe)

• Access to travel routes for holidays or family visits

Ask yourself: Will I still enjoy this location in 10 years?

2. Community Vibe

• Are residents friendly and engaged?

• Is there an active social calendar?

• Do the facilities match your lifestyle (pools, gyms, gardens, caravan storage)?

Tip: Visit during an open day or ask to tour when residents are active. 

3. Transparency in Contracts & Fees

• Understand weekly site fees, how they are reviewed, and what they cover

• Confirm there are no exit or deferred management fees (DMFs)

• Clarify maintenance responsibilities and inclusions

Resources:

• Downsizing Made Simple: What to Ask 

4. Reputation of the Operator

• Look for established names like Ingenia Lifestyle, Hometown Australia, and Palm Lake Resort

• Review resident testimonials and independent community ratings

• Is there an onsite manager or resident liaison?

Tip: Search for operator complaints or awards in aged living. 

5. Design & Quality of Homes

• Choose between new builds or pre-loved homes

• Look for universal design (step-free access, wide doorways, future-proofing)

• Check if you can personalise or renovate the home

Bonus: Energy-efficient homes may lower bills and boost comfort year-round. 

6. Pets, Parking & Practicalities

• Are pets welcome (and under what rules)?

• Is there visitor parking, garage space or caravan bays?

• Are there storage options or community workshops?

These day-to-day details can greatly affect quality of life. 

Persona Match: Helen – The Independent Urbanite

Helen loved the stylish, lock-and-leave vibe of her chosen community. It offered her privacy, proximity to a medical centre, and a pet-friendly policy that welcomed her small dog, Ruby.

"It wasn’t just about the house. It was about everything around it. That’s what sold me." 

Start Exploring

• Compare land lease communities

• Visit open homes near you 

Downsizing.com.au Presents Our Editorials Series - "Living the Land Lease Lifestyle"

1. What Is a Land Lease Community?
2. The Financial Benefits of Land Lease Living
3. Land Lease vs Retirement Villages vs Strata: Which Model Is Right for You?
4. Who Lives in Land Lease Communities? Real-Life Stories from Everyday Australians 
5. What to Look For in a Land Lease Development

Disclaimer: Always review the full site agreement and seek independent legal and financial advice before signing.