As Australia's over-50s demographic continues to grow, there's a rising demand for premium living solutions that blend luxury, lifestyle, and community, and GemLife is leading the way.
GemLife offers bespoke homes strategically located in some of the country's most coveted holiday destinations, including Sunshine Coast, Tweed Heads, and Rainbow Beach on the NSW Mid North Coast.
Designed for the discerning over-50s, these residences exemplify an unparalleled living experience that redefines retirement.
"Our homes break the mould of what people think a retirement home should be," said Andrew Coulter, GemLife’s sales and marketing director.
"We don’t skimp on quality – we design homes that allow people to downsize without compromise – low maintenance, secure, and beautifully finished.
“We do a lot of research into where this demographic wants to move and have selected locations with that perfect mix of lifestyle appeal – beautiful natural surroundings but also access to modern amenities like health services, shopping, and entertainment."
Focus on luxury and design excellence
The Emerald Collection is the premium offering from GemLife, with each home meticulously crafted to meet the needs of a design-conscious demographic, with single-storey, split-level, and two-storey layouts.
“We ensure that every home has the modern inclusions you'd expect from any premium new home in Australia today – stone benchtops, high-end appliances, and beautiful alfresco entertaining spaces,” explained Mr Coulter.
The Emerald Collection raises the bar even further by including Gaggenau appliances in its premium kitchens, alongside Smeg fittings in other home designs.
With a high level of inclusions, GemLife residences are designed to meet the standards of discerning buyers.
Additionally, energy-efficient technology is a key feature, with GemLife Gold Coast residences achieving a 7-star energy rating.
In its commitment to sustainable development and to protect homeowners from rising power costs, GemLife is also rolling out a virtual power plant solar energy program with community batteries across its communities.
Lifestyle and community advantages
The Emerald Collection is more than just real estate; it's a gateway to a vibrant, active lifestyle within a secure, like-minded community.
"A lot of people think moving into a lifestyle community means slowing down, but it's actually the opposite," Mr Coulter explained.
"Our resorts are designed to energise residents. There's a strong social atmosphere, with shared spaces for fitness, arts, and leisure."
Being part of dynamic and vibrant communities is a major feature of GemLife's homes.
Residents can enjoy a range of resort-style amenities, including state-of-the-art gyms, indoor and outdoor pools, wellness centres, arts and crafts studios for painting and pottery, along with social hubs like cinemas, ten-pin bowling alleys, and elegant lounges.
"We see residents embrace a whole new lease on life here," said Mr Coulter.
"From Friday drinks in the country club to yoga and water aerobics, there's always something happening – but there's also space for those who prefer a quieter lifestyle."
Financial benefits: Smart living for savvy retirees
GemLife has a financial model which eliminates stamp duty, entry fees, and exit fees.
"We get mistaken for a retirement village, but we’re not," Mr Coulter clarified.
"Traditional retirement villages use a deferred management fee model, which can be complex and costly.
“GemLife offers a completely transparent land lease model with no hidden costs."
Under this model, buyers purchase their home but lease the land, paying a weekly site fee, and that site fee covers resort maintenance, community facilities, and landscaping.
When selling, homeowners keep 100% of capital gains, without exit fees.
"It’s a very clean and easy-to-understand model," Mr Coulter explained.
"Our buyers appreciate that they can unlock capital from their previous home while moving into a premium, low-maintenance lifestyle."
Real-life stories: Embracing the Emerald lifestyle
Mr Coulter said that demand for premium over-50s housing is at an all-time high.
"We’re seeing more buyers who want a bit more – larger homes with top-tier upgrades, beautiful waterfront or lake views, and architecturally designed living spaces," he said.
"The Emerald Collection was born from this demand, and it’s been incredibly well received."
According to GemLife data, around 135,000 Australians currently live in land lease communities valued at approximately $13.5 billion, making it one of the fastest-growing housing options for downsizers in the country.
This sector has seen a significant increase in the number of land lease communities over the past decade, with some estimates showing a 30% growth rate.
Residents have a number of motivations for moving into GemLife communities, including seeking a better lifestyle without compromising on the size of their homes.
GemLife's Emerald Collection home allow for an easy lifestyle in beautiful natural surrounds.
They also want to live in an easy-to-manage home which still has prized access to nature.
Homeowners like Christine and Guy Yeldham have embraced the lifestyle shift, finding a renewed sense of freedom and community.
“One of the things that attracted us to GemLife was the lifestyle – the opportunity to engage with like-minded people, and the world-class facilities.
"Everything from the pools, the barbecues, the spa, and getting a haircut in the salon for just $17 to having the gardening and maintenance done for you is extraordinary,” they said.
“The beauty of our Emerald Collection home is the bush views – we have 180 degrees of privacy. You can’t help but just go, gee, we’re so fortunate to be here.”
English (US) · 