RETIREMENT VILLAGES AND HOME OWNERSHIP

A QUESTION OF CONTROL 

Who actually holds and retains the title deeds to homes in retirement villages? Does the title deed holder have absolute control over the house allegedly ‘bought’ by the occupier?

In retirement villages, the holder of the title deeds typically depends on the specific ownership model of the village. Here’s how it generally works:

1. **Title Deed Holder**:

– In **leasehold arrangements**, the title deeds are usually held by either the developer or the management company of the retirement village. The residents do not hold title to the property; they have a right of occupancy based on the lease agreement.

– In **freehold arrangements**, the individual homeowners will hold the title deeds and thus have ownership rights to their property.

2. **Control over the Property**:

– If the title deeds are held by the developer or management company (as in leasehold arrangements), they indeed have significant control over the property. This can include decisions regarding maintenance, management fees, renovations, and, in some cases, even rules governing the occupancy of the property.

– If residents own their homes outright (in freehold or strata title arrangements), they have more control over their property and can make decisions regarding the home, subject to any applicable community or strata regulations.

### Conclusion

In summary, the title deed holder often has substantial control over properties in retirement villages, especially in leasehold arrangements. Residents should be fully aware of who holds the title deeds and the implications for their rights and responsibilities before entering into any agreements.