Buying or Selling in a Retirement Village.

Legal Advice for Retirement Village Living

Buying into a retirement village is different from purchasing a typical home. We provide clear, independent legal advice to help you understand your rights, responsibilities, and what to expect before you sign.

Understanding Your Rights

Before entering a retirement village, it is important to be clear about:

• How a licence to occupy works and what rights it gives you

• The ongoing service fees, what they cover, and how they are adjusted

• The village rules and bylaws, and how they may affect your daily life

• What happens when you leave, including exit fees, resale processes, and any deductions

We help you understand your legal position before you commit, so you can make confident decisions about your future.

Reviewing the Paperwork

Do you need legal advice before signing an Occupation Right Agreement?

Yes. Legal advice is required by law before entering a village, and a lawyer must certify that advice was provided. We guide you through the documents and explain what they mean in plain language.

This includes:

• The disclosure statement and what must be legally revealed

• The Occupation Right Agreement (ORA) and its terms

We highlight any areas that may affect your rights or financial position. If you are transferring or exiting an ORA, we can support that process as well.

Supporting Informed Choices

We aim to help you make decisions with clarity and confidence. Our advice is:

• Practical and tailored to your personal situation

• Focused on your legal and financial responsibilities

• Designed to support you from start to finish, without pressure

Whether you are moving into a village or planning to leave one, we provide clear legal guidance every step of the way.

Where We Work

Our life planning team is based in Wellington, Lower Hutt, and Masterton. We assist clients across the Wellington region, including Kapiti Coast, and throughout New Zealand. Whether you're planning ahead or helping a loved one, we deliver clear, practical legal advice that reflects your goals.

Questions We Often Get Asked About Retirement Villages

What is an Occupation Right Agreement (ORA)?

An ORA is the main legal document between you and the village operator. It outlines your rights as a resident, including entry terms, ongoing fees, and what happens when you leave.

What are the typical exit fees or deductions?

Most villages charge a deferred management fee and may deduct costs for refurbishment or resale. We review your agreement and explain what charges will apply in your situation.

Can the disclosure statement override terms in the ORA?

Yes. The disclosure statement contains statutory protections that may override less favourable ORA terms. We explain how these documents work together and what takes precedence.

What should I check in village rules or bylaws?

Rules may affect pets, guests, renovations, or use of shared facilities. We review these with you and explain how they could impact your lifestyle and future plans.

Do I need legal advice before signing an ORA?

Yes. It is a legal requirement. We ensure you understand the terms, risks, and long-term implications before signing, so you are fully informed.