Considering a move to a retirement village? Whether you’re downsizing, seeking community, or looking for more support in your lifestyle, understanding how retirement living in Sydney works can help you make an informed decision. At Marston Living, we understand that choosing the right home is about comfort, security, and clarity.
Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about our luxury retirement communities, incorporating insights from across the industry to guide your journey.
1. What is retirement village living really like?
At Marston Living, retirement living is about enjoying life on your terms. You’ll become part of a like-minded community in a peaceful, semi-rural setting, surrounded by resort-style amenities, beautifully maintained gardens, and 24/7 on-call staff for peace of mind.
Marston Living stands out by offering luxury retirement living with resort-style amenities, modern villas, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Located in Galston, Dural and Beacon Hill, Marston Living combines the tranquillity of a rural setting with proximity to urban conveniences.
3. What is the community like?
You’ll find a welcoming community of like-minded individuals, fostering opportunities for lasting friendships.
4. What types of homes are available at Marston Living?
Marston Living offers a range of modern, spacious villas designed for comfort and accessibility. Each home features contemporary finishes, open-plan living areas, and private outdoor spaces.
5. Are pets allowed in the community?
Yes, Marston Living is pet-friendly. Residents can have pets, subject to approval by the village manager to ensure the comfort and safety of all community members.
6. What amenities are available to residents?
Residents enjoy a variety of resort-style amenities, including landscaped gardens, communal lounges, fitness centres, and organised social activities. These facilities promote an active and engaging lifestyle.
7. Do I pay stamp duty on retirement homes?
No, stamp duty is not payable when you move into a retirement village like Marston Living. This is a major cost-saving advantage compared to traditional property purchases.
8. What does the cost structure look like?
There are three main components:
- Ingoing contribution (purchase price)
- Recurring service fees (for upkeep of shared spaces and services)
- Exit fee (deferred management fee)
Rosella & Galston offer a low exit fee model of 30% over 4 years (8%, 8%, 7%, & 7%), keeping initial prices lower and offering financial clarity.
9. What’s included in the service fee?
Your recurring fee covers communal maintenance, insurance, staffing, and more. Unlike traditional strata, you don’t pay council rates or body corporate fees, and a Residents’ Committee ensures transparency and input.
10. Can I modify my home?
Yes, with approval. Personalising your home is encouraged, provided it doesn’t impact neighbours or safety. You’re responsible for the cost of any approved changes.
11. What healthcare facilities are available?
Marston Living supports independent living, but staff can connect you with in-home aged care services, medical practitioners, meal deliveries, and more, ensuring you can age in place with support as your needs evolve.
12. Can my family and pets visit?
Absolutely. Guests are welcome (including overnight), and pets are permitted with manager approval, because family includes furry friends too.
13. What happens when a resident decides to leave?
Residents or their estates can appoint the village operator or a licensed real estate agent to handle the sale of their home. During the resale period, recurring service fees continue to apply.
14. How is the exit fee calculated?
For our Galston and Rosella (Dural) developments, the exit fee is calculated based on the resale price of your home. Rosella & Galston offer a low exit fee model of 30% over 4 years (8% in the first year, 8% in the second year, 7% in the third year, & 7% in the fourth year). This helps keep the initial purchase price more affordable.
15. Why a 99-year lease instead of a freehold title?
The 99-year lease allows the operator to maintain control and responsibility for the ongoing maintenance and services of the village, ensuring consistent quality and responsiveness to residents’ needs. You are a “Registered Interest Holder” on the property title, giving you many of the same rights as freehold owners, including the ability to choose your own sales agent and receive the full capital gain.
16. Can a guest stay overnight?
Yes, your place is your home, and guests are welcome. For extended stays, please inform village management for emergency preparedness. Similarly, inform management of any extended absences.
17. What public transport is available?
For Marston Living Beacon Hill, there is a public bus stop on McIntosh Rd, within a 3-minute walk from the village. Buses depart to Mona Vale, Manly, Chatswood, Cromer Heights and Wynyard.
For Marston Living Galston, there are public bus stops 170 metres away on Galston Road and 20 metres away on Mid Dural Road, within a few-minute walk from the village. The buses link Berowra Waters and Berrilee to Pennant Hills, and Glenorie to Castle Hill.
For Rosella Retirement Resort, there are public bus stops on Kenthurst Road that depart to either Castle Hill Station or Rouse Hill Station on your doorstep. Allowing you easy access to Castle Towers or Rouse Hill Town Centre.
18. Who keeps the capital gain of my residence?
You retain all the capital gain on your residence but are also exposed to any capital loss. Irrespective of whether you enjoy a capital gain or incur a loss, you pay an exit fee calculated on the resale price of your residence.
19. What are the benefits of living in a retirement village compared to staying in my own home?
Living in a retirement village like Marston Living offers a lifestyle upgrade, free from the burden of home maintenance, with added security, a sense of community, and access to resort-style amenities. You’ll also benefit from on-call support, social activities, and a low-stress environment designed specifically for your stage of life. In contrast, staying in your own home may mean ongoing maintenance costs, isolation, and limited access to support services.
20. Do I own my home in a retirement village?
At Marston Living, residents hold a 99-year lease and are considered Registered Interest Holders, which gives you many of the same rights as a freehold owner, including control over the resale process and the ability to keep 100% of any capital gains. This model ensures long-term security while allowing the operator to maintain high standards across the village.
21. What happens if I begin to struggle with independent living?
Marston Living is designed for independent, active retirees, but we understand that needs can change over time. If you require additional support, the village team can help connect you with external healthcare providers, home care services, and visiting medical practitioners. This flexibility allows many residents to remain in their homes longer, with the care they need brought to them.
Final Thoughts: Discover the Marston Living Difference
At Marston Living, retirement isn’t just about downsizing; it’s about upgrading your lifestyle. Nestled in peaceful surroundings, our community offers the perfect balance of tranquillity, security, and social connection. With resort-style amenities, beautifully designed villas, and a focus on independent living, you’ll enjoy the freedom to live life on your terms, with support available as your needs change. Whether you’re seeking luxury retirement close to Sydney or simply a place to belong, Marston Living invites you to experience retirement the way it should be, relaxed, enriching, and worry-free.
Visit our website to arrange a tour or request more information today.
