Every time you relocate within a village - whether it's to a different unit or to receive care - there are some costs to be aware of. Here's how they typically work:
If you're shifting between independent living options (for example, downsizing to a smaller unit), a transfer fee is usually charged. This is most commonly a fixed percentage of your original licence fee, and it generally ranges from 2-15%. You don't have to pay this fee upfront. The fee is simply deducted from the final settlement that's paid to your or your estate when you exit the village.
If you're moving to receive care within the village, this is still considered a transfer. While you won't have to pay a transfer fee, you will need to terminate your Occupational Right Agreement (ORA) and enter into a new contract for residential care, which means a second Deferred Management Fee (DMF) will apply.
If you're moving from one care suite to another, any difference in price (if any) between the two suites will need to be covered.
If you'd like to explore this topic further, learn more about the cost of living in a retirement village here.
Updated: 1 Dec 2025