Buying a home is always a major event and buying your Seasons Aged Care apartment is no exception. Naturally, there is a lot that you’ll want to know about Seasons. Here are answers to some of the questions that people often ask us.

Will I own my home?

Yes. All homes are purchased by way of a lifetime lease with the added advantage of not having to pay stamp duty, as in freehold title. The Title Deed and Lease are registered in your name with the relevant state government department,* in NSW with the Department of Lands and in Queensland with the Land and Titles Office. *Registered in all states except Victoria.

Is there a general services charge or recurrent charges?

Yes. As is the case in retirement villages, Residents pay a weekly fee, which covers the costs associated with the day-to-day running of the community. These costs are apportioned to each unit on an 'equal share' basis by way of a charge known as the General Services (Recurrent) Charge.

Do I have to sell my current home before I can move into Seasons?

No. Seasons recognize that many people need support now so you can gain immediate access to your new Seasons home. In such cases, we can assist you with sales advice and can put you in touch with real estate specialists in your area who will be able to assist you.

Do I have to join in the Villages' social events?

Not if you don’t wish to. Although we have a full and popular activities schedule, we understand that not everyone has the same capacity, needs and desires to join in. You are always free to choose how much or how little - if at all - you wish to participate. Naturally, you are always welcome.

Can I dry clothes on the balcony or in the courtyard?

We have supplied fold-out clotheslines where appropriate and have installed clothes dryers in most homes. This is your home – to live in as you always have with as much normality as possible.

Can I go on holidays and leave my home empty?

Yes. However it is a good idea that you advise Seasons management that you will be away, so they can keep a close eye on your home for you. If you wish, we could also redirect your mail to you while you’re away.

Can I retain my current medical care arrangements?

In most cases yes, you can continue to use the same care service providers or family support that you currently use. Simply discuss your circumstance with your Case Manager.

Can I get transport to the doctor or specialist appointments?

Yes. If appointments match the bus schedule, you can be transported to your appointments. Otherwise, we can provide transport for a fee.

Can my personal doctor visit the community?

Your doctor is encouraged to visit any time they choose to see you in your home or in the Consulting Room in the Community Centre - which is available to local doctors and other practitioners wishing to see their patients.

Can my family still manage my medical requirements?

Yes, particularly if your family’s assistance with your medical management is important to you. If there is any change in your condition or medication requirements, we would ask that you or your family inform Seasons’ Case Manager so that we are able to help should an emergency situation arise.

Can I make alterations to my property?

Minor internal alterations and improvements can be made with Seasons’ consent. However, when the lease is assigned, the right is reserved to restore the property to its original condition at the expense of the outgoing Resident.

Can visitors stay in my home?

Of course they can. This is your home - to live in as you always have.

How is the resale price of my home decided?

Several factors add value to the resale potential of your home, including services and amenities designed to enhance aged care living, maintenance programs, security and care services. Pricing is usually guided by sales prices achieved by similar properties in our community. Another advantage is that Seasons will take responsibility for you or your estate in the resale process. The actual price set will be agreed by you or your representatives and Seasons' on-site management.

Will we receive a regular statement of the Villages' finances?

Yes. Legislation in all States requires management to provide Residents with regular statements and budgets in relation to charges levied for the upkeep of the village. A statement will be issued monthly for any additional personal services provided to Residents.

Does the Village have a Residents' committee?

Seasons communities have a Residents’ committee that works with management to maintain or enhance the quality of community living. As with many organizations, being a member of the committee is not compulsory but is your choice whether or not to be involved.

How does the emergency system work?

Emergency call buttons in each home provide a 24 hour monitoring service. The person who will attend will have the minimum of first-aid certification through to full nursing experience if required. Most villages offer to keep a confidential file record of the Resident’s medical history. The manager will ask the Resident to authorise the release of this information to medical or emergency services in the event of an emergency.

Can I bring a pet or have a new one?

We welcome pets such as cats, dogs, birds or fish - they are family too! For obvious reasons, it is essential that they are well trained and controlled in line with Council by-laws.