Downsizing Insights · Updated October 2026
What Downsizers Want: Lifestyle, Location and Low Maintenance
We hear from downsizers right across Australia. Most share the same wish list: a home that suits the life they want now, close to what matters, with far less to look after.
Here is what our clients are choosing, and why.
Who Is Downsizing, and Where To
Many of our enquiries come from owner-occupiers whose family home has outgrown them, whose home is becoming too expensive to maintain, or who simply want to sell up and enjoy retirement with capital in the bank and a new lock-up-and-go home.
The strongest demand is for apartments, townhouses and similar homes closer to the city, the coast or family. Our clients want lifestyle, generous internal space and two or three bedrooms, in locations they choose and at a budget that works.
Why So Many Choose New
Most of our clients want a new home. They want to be the first to live in it, and new comes with builder warranties and very low maintenance. Buying off the plan also means:
- a far wider choice of homes and locations to suit your budget and lifestyle;
- time to plan: improve and sell the family home before your new home settles;
- no rushing between open inspections or bidding at auction against deeper pockets and stronger emotions.
Off the plan is only as good as the developer and builder behind it. Check their track record, the contract, the sunset date and the finishes schedule, and get the contract reviewed by your solicitor.
Live, Thrive and Give Back
Newer homes are also far more energy efficient, which keeps more money in your pocket. Heading into retirement, keeping running costs low protects your budget and your lifestyle.
Many of our clients also look for buildings with a gym, pool, shared gardens or a rooftop: places to live, stay active and be part of a community.
No obligation
Share Your Downsizing Wish List
Tell us what you are after: location, size, budget and timing. We will help you find the home you really want, saving you time, stress and money.
Prefer to call? 0413 108 125
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Part Of The properT network Family
Downsizing for Retirement is one specialist site within the properT network group: the same independent advisory approach, applied across states and property types.
