When you start thinking about simplifying life and embracing a more relaxed lifestyle, the options can sometimes feel overwhelming. Two of the most common choices for those who are looking to downsize are land lease communities and retirement villages—but what many people don’t realise is just how different they are! When deciding between a land lease community and a retirement village, whatever your preference is, it's important to have all the necessary information to determine which living model works best for you.

What is a Land Lease Community?

In a land lease community like Solana, you own your home but lease the land it sits on. It’s a simple, secure, and affordable way to enjoy resort-style living..

At Solana, your weekly site fee covers the use and upkeep of all common facilities—think pools, gyms, security, gardens and more. There are no entry or exit fees, no stamp duty, and you keep 100% of your home’s capital gain if and when you choose to sell.

How Does a Retirement Village Differ?

In a typical retirement village, the setup is quite different. While it varies between operators, many retirement villages involve:

Paying an entry or exit fee
Sharing any capital gains which can potentially impact the percentage of capital gain.
Paying government charges, such as stamp duty or council rates
Paying a deferred management fee (DMF) upon departure, which can be as high as 30% or more of your home’s value
Covering additional refurbishment costs

Additionally, residents in retirement villages are often required to pay below a specific threshold to qualify for rent assistance. As a result, most people living in retirement villages do not usually receive rent assistance.

When selling, this structure often means that the legacy you leave behind for your family is less than desired.

Why More Over 50s Are Choosing Land Lease

The land lease model is growing rapidly in popularity, and it’s easy to see why:

Financial Freedom and Transparency

At Solana you know exactly what you’re paying—and more importantly, what you’re keeping. You stay in control of your investment and any future profits. This gives you (and your family) peace of mind and preserves the legacy you’ve worked hard to build.

No Stamp Duty, No Council Rates

Because you lease the land, you don’t pay stamp duty. Plus, your council rates are covered within your site fee, along with all common area maintenance . It’s designed to keep life simple, affordable, and stress-free.

Stay Independent

At Solana, you own your home outright. You decide when and how to sell, and you appoint your own agent if you wish.

Resort-Style Living

Our Solana communities are crafted for living well every day—with Livewell Centres offering pools, gyms, libraries, cinemas, craft rooms, cafés, BBQ terraces, and more. Whether you love getting active, relaxing with friends, or trying something new, it’s all here at your doorstep.

A Real Community with Real People

Solana is designed to be the perfect size—big enough for generous amenities, small enough to foster real friendships. .

Security and Peace of Mind

Gated entry, on-site management, and caring neighbours all contribute to a safe, welcoming environment. Whether you’re heading off in your caravan or enjoying a slow Sunday at home, you can relax knowing everything is looked after.

Why Solana Lifestyle Resorts?

At Solana, we’re proud to offer a lifestyle that’s real, refreshing, and genuinely rewarding.

With no hidden fees, no deferred management costs, and no loss of your hard-earned equity, you can move in with complete confidence.

You’re not just buying a home—you’re choosing a life that’s simpler, fuller, and ready for you to enjoy. A place to make new memories, new friendships, and leave a real legacy for your family.

If you’re ready to downsize without compromise, it’s time to discover Solana Lifestyle Resorts.

Find your perfect home today—where life’s a little easier, a lot more fun, and full of real possibilities.

The Benefits of a Land Lease Community Compared to a Retirement Village