What it really costs to downsize
Understanding the true costs to downsize means looking beyond the monthly fee. When people investigate retirement communities, they often compare it to what they think they’re paying now. But staying at home isn’t free — it just doesn’t feel that way. Watch the video to hear Allison’s story and Rachel’s explanation. 🎥 Watch the video […]
Selling an exempt asset
When you sell your family home to downsize, it can affect your aged pension. Your home is an exempt asset — but the equity you free up isn’t. Watch the video to hear Rachel explain what this means for you. 🎥 In this video, Rachel Lane explains why selling your family home can trigger the […]
Stamp duty and downsizing — when you have to pay it
Many people assume: “I’ll have to pay stamp duty, so downsizing isn’t worth it.” But depending on the type of move you’re considering, that may not be the case. Understanding your options can open up more pathways than you might expect. 🎥 Watch the video to hear John’s question and Rachel’s explanation. What you need […]
What to consider when downsizing from a large property
When moving from a larger home, it’s important to look beyond the headline numbers. As Rachel explains, it’s important to consider the ingoing, ongoing and outgoing costs before making a decision. 🎥 Watch the video to hear Susan’s full story and practical insights. Key factors to think about include: A real reminder for downsizers One of the […]
Downsizing traps — why the numbers don’t always add up
On paper, downsizing looks simple. Sell your home for $1 million.Buy a new one for $500,000.Pocket the $500,000 difference. But in reality, it doesn’t work like that. 🎥 Watch the video below to understand what to look out for. In this short video, Rachel Lane explains the financial traps that can catch downsizers off guard […]
Tiny homes and downsizing
Tiny homes are back in the headlines — with flat-pack versions now available from major retailers. But are they really a smart downsizing option? In this short video, Rachel Lane, founder of Aged Care Gurus and co-author of Downsizing Made Simple, explains what downsizing means from a financial point of view — and why it’s […]
Christmas conversations about care & downsizing
Christmas often brings families together — and with that, important conversations about care, ageing, and future living arrangements. In this ABC radio interview, Rachel Lane shares practical guidance on how to start these discussions, why planning early matters, and the common myths around aged care assessments, downsizing, and exit fees. This conversation is helpful for […]
Plan your move the smart way with a Village Guru Report
Most people spend months searching for the right retirement village — inspecting units, comparing locations, thinking about lifestyle. But the biggest source of regret often isn’t the village itself… it’s discovering after they’ve moved in that the financial side works very differently to what they expected. Exit fees, ongoing charges, changes to pension or rent […]
See the true cost of retirement living before you move
Downsizing is one of the biggest lifestyle and financial decisions you’ll ever make. But when it comes to retirement living, it can be difficult to understand what you’ll really pay — and what you’ll get back when you leave. That’s why Village Guru has partnered with Downsizing.com.au to bring you the TrueCost Report. This report […]
Living well after 50 — insights from the GemLife Lifestyle Forum
Held in Brisbane on 23 July 2025, the GemLife Over 50s Lifestyle Forum brought together a powerhouse panel of speakers to share practical, inspiring advice across wellness, finances, and retirement living. Hosted by Jamie Durie, the event was a celebration of living well — helping over 50s plan their next chapter with confidence. 🎥 Watch […]
