Smart Downsizing: Empty Nesters' Guide to Luxury Off-The-Plan Living
A Premium Downsizing Journey
With children moved out and retirement approaching, many homeowners are discovering the appeal of luxury off-the-plan apartments. Here's how we helped one couple transition from their family home to a premium low-maintenance lifestyle.
Meet Robert and Diana
Robert (63, Semi-retired Business Owner) and Diana (61, Retiring Teacher) lived in their 5-bedroom family home for 28 years. With their children now moved out and retirement on the horizon, they wanted to transition to a luxurious, low-maintenance lifestyle without compromising on space and quality.
The Downsizer's Challenge
The couple faced several key considerations:
- Emotional attachment to their family home
- Uncertainty about apartment living
- Desire to maintain entertaining space
- Need for adequate storage solutions
- Concerns about body corporate living
- Managing the sale timing of their existing home
- Maximizing superannuation contributions
- Preserving treasured furniture and belongings
Our Strategic Solution
1. Lifestyle Transition
- Premium location selection
- Social connectivity planning
- Amenity accessibility
- Entertainment space optimization
- Storage solutions
2. Financial Strategy
- Downsizer super contribution planning
- Capital gains tax minimization
- Investment of surplus funds
- Body corporate budget planning
- Retirement income structuring
3. Property Selection
- Premium developer research
- Luxury apartment criteria
- Future resale consideration
- Quality assurance measures
- Design customization options
4. Transition Support
- Property decluttering assistance
- Furniture planning service
- Moving coordination
- Interior design consultation
- Settlement timing management
The Implementation Journey
Preparation Phase (Months 1-3)
- Comprehensive downsizing consultation
- Financial planning coordination
- Property preparation strategy
- Developer shortlisting
Selection Phase (Months 4-6)
- Luxury project evaluation
- Design customization planning
- Contract negotiation
- Deposit structuring
Transition Phase (Months 7-24)
- Family home sale timing
- Construction monitoring
- Interior design planning
- Downsizing preparation
The Results
Property Details:
- Purchase Price: $1,850,000
- Configuration: 3 bed + study, 2.5 bath
- Internal Space: 180sqm
- External Space: 35sqm terrace
- Views: Ocean view aspects
- Level: 20th floor
Financial Outcomes:
- Family Home Sale: $2,450,000
- Downsizer Super Contribution: $300,000 each
- Investment Portfolio Addition: $200,000
- Body Corporate: $1,500/quarter
- Customization Budget: $85,000
Lifestyle Benefits:
- Resort-style facilities
- 24/7 concierge
- Wine cellar storage
- Guest suite access
- Private dining room
- Wellness center
In Their Words
"The thought of leaving our family home was daunting, but the opportunity to create a sophisticated new lifestyle was exciting. The process was seamless, and we now enjoy a luxurious, lock-and-leave lifestyle with every amenity we could want. We wish we'd done it sooner!"
Key Success Factors
Location Selection
- Proximity to favorite cafes and restaurants
- Access to cultural venues
- Medical facilities nearby
- Public transport connections
- Familiar neighborhood
Design Priorities
- Generous entertaining spaces
- Premium finishes
- Ample storage solutions
- Smart home technology
- Energy efficiency
Essential Considerations for Downsizers
Lifestyle Benefits
- Lock-and-leave convenience
- Premium facilities
- Reduced maintenance
- Enhanced security
- Social connectivity
Financial Advantages
- Downsizer super contributions
- Reduced utility costs
- Lower maintenance expenses
- Capital release opportunities
- Lifestyle fund creation
Looking Forward
Robert and Diana's experience showcases how downsizing can enhance lifestyle while maintaining luxury and comfort. Their journey demonstrates that with proper planning, the transition to apartment living can be both exciting and rewarding.
Ready to Start Your Downsizing Journey?
Consider these essential questions:
- What aspects of your current lifestyle are most important to maintain?
- How can you maximize the financial benefits of downsizing?
- What location would best support your desired lifestyle?
- What level of luxury and amenity suits your needs?