Location, lifestyle and value: Why more downsizers are discovering Yamba's Parkside community

An increasing number of savvy Australians are discovering that downsizing isn’t just about finding a smaller home. For many, it's about choosing the right location, embracing a better lifestyle and getting genuine value without compromising on quality.

These priorities were top of the wish list for two couples; Tony and Michelle, as well as Graham and Judy, who recently moved into Hometown's over-55s Parkside community in Yamba.

The location factor

A coveted coastal hotspot named ‘Best Town in Australia’ by Australian Traveller magazine, Yamba in NSW’s Northern Rivers region ticks just about every box for sea changers. Its pristine beaches, scenic waterways and village charm have attracted holidaymakers for generations, but increasingly retirees are choosing to call it home.

Parkside residents Tony (62) and Michelle (57) traded bustling Brisbane for Yamba's laid-back lifestyle after years of living between the city and Hervey Bay.

“Brisbane has just become too busy. We really wanted a quieter lifestyle, and to get closer to family who was already living here,” Tony said. “We’d been looking at quite a few communities, probably for about four-and-a-half years. We decided on Parkside because the size was just right; it’s not too large and being a new community we knew the amenities were going to be modern. It just catered for everything we were looking for.”

Meanwhile, Graham (65) and Judy (62) left a lifetime in Lismore for a sea change that would allow them to enjoy retirement to its fullest. “We had a good look around, and pricewise, this was the best. Then of course the house itself and location were ideal,” Graham said. “The opportunity to get a house right on the end, means we only have one direct neighbour and the other side of our home is open to the sun.”

After growing up in Lismore, with decades in physically demanding jobs, Graham wanted a simpler pace closer to the coast. Parkside offers residents an idyllic mix of coastal living, combined with inspired home design and community-focused amenities only minutes from Yamba's beaches, the Clarence River, cafés, boutiques and local markets. 

Where life gets easier

Despite coming from different locations, both couples said they've found common ground at Parkside - a community that offers the right balance of lifestyle and convenience to enjoy this next chapter on their own terms.

For Tony and Michelle, downsizing wasn't about slowing down. It was about creating more time to enjoy life. One of the biggest perks has been reclaiming their weekends. “Something that appealed to both of us was how low maintenance life is now. We spent at least one day every weekend doing the lawns and cleaning the pool. I wouldn’t want to go back to that at all.”

Instead, the couple now enjoys spontaneous caravan trips, coastal walks and spending more time with their four grandchildren. “The good thing about living here is that we can just get in the caravan and go away for two or three days at a time, which we've been doing, and that's fantastic."

Tony agreed that now they’re able to live life, not just maintain it. “I’m no longer mowing the lawns, and I don’t miss it.”

Tony said he’d recommend to anyone considering downsizing to seize the moment earlier rather than later. “I strongly recommend doing it in your 50s or early 60s. Don't leave it too late, otherwise it just becomes too hard. The longer you stay, the harder it is to leave the old family home. I tried to advise my parents to move years ago, but they just couldn't make the change until it got to the point where they had no alternatives.”

Although downsizing can seem daunting, Tony added that decluttering is the first step to creating a simpler life. “It wasn't easy, but it's got to be done. You won't believe how much stuff you just don't need.”

Tony said he’s now traded in the daily grind for getting out and about. “The great thing is, it's relatively flat around here so Judy and I have been able to ride our bikes. I play bowls at Yamba Bowls Club and, when it's good weather, we ride on the pathways down to the markets, and almost everywhere," he said. "I'm also a keen fisherman and have my boat here. It's great that the boat ramp is only 100m away. It's the best move we've ever made.”

To watch the video testimonials click here.

Bang for buck

Within Parkside, resort-style amenities including a clubhouse, swimming pool, gym and a bowling green provide opportunities for residents to stay active, be social and remain connected.
The boutique land lease community allows residents to own their home, while leasing the land, creating a more affordable pathway to retirement living. 

With no stamp duty payable on the purchase of a home, and no exit or deferred management fees, homeowners retain more of their equity to enjoy their next chapter.

Stage 2 homes now selling, don’t miss your chance to secure your home. Book a tour today and find your dream home at Parkside, Yamba.