Understanding Exit Fees

Ardency is the premium residence brand from Keyton, one of Australia’s leading retirement living providers.

At Ardency, life begins with informed choices. For many residents, the path to luxury living includes a financial model that enables freedom upfront, with the costs deferred until later. Commonly known as a Deferred Management Fee (DMF), or exit fee, this financial model is available within our retirement villages and is arguably one of the most common sought contracts in Australia.

Exit fees, or the DMF, is payable when you leave your residence and is based on the contract you select at the time on entry. Typically, the DMF is calculated as a percentage of your ingoing contribution or final sale price, with your contract clearly outlining how contributions or deposits are returned.

If your contract includes a DMF, the Ardency team will support you through every step of the resale process. From reinstatement works like fresh paint or lighting updates to managing more substantial refurbishments. We will assist you with making your apartment market ready.

Under the DMF model, you can enjoy the benefits of a beautiful home and extraordinary lifestyle now, and pay for it when you exit. For many residents, this approach provides greater flexibility in how they spend while they enjoy living in an Ardency residence.

The final DMF amount is influenced by factors such as (not limited to):

• The value of your residence;
• The length of time in your residence; and
• Whether or not you opt to share in capital gains.

Some residents benefit from capital gains on the sale of their property. If refurbishment is required before sale, any uplift in value may also result in a capital gain shared with the departing resident.

At Ardency, the DMF is just one of several financial pathways available. If you prefer a different structure, you might consider:

• Prepaid plan: Management fees are paid upfront, offering peace of mind and the benefit of no Deferred Management Fee (DMF).
• Refundable Contribution: Pay a higher Refundable Contribution and a one-time Establishment Fee, with no Deferred Management Fee (DMF). Your Refundable Contribution is returned in full 60 days after contract completion and vacant possession is provided, offering clarity, simplicity, and security for your future.

Your Ardency Sales Manager will be able to provide you with estimated costs, both at entry and at exit of your apartment, which is dependent upon length of occupancy, to assist you.

Our expert team is here to guide you through your options and ensure your move to Ardency is as seamless as it is exceptional.