22 October 2025

Stories | Retirement Living

Many older Australians start thinking about lifestyle changes as retirement approaches. Downsizing in retirement, independent living, health and wellbeing, and finding ways to enjoy more free time often rise to the top of the priority list.

An increasingly popular option is buying into a new retirement villa. For many over-70s, the benefits of retirement communities include a mix of independence, convenience and social connection. But making the move is a big decision that involves careful consideration.

If you’re exploring senior living communities in the Dubbo area, we’ve put together some helpful tips on the process, the benefits, and why BaptistCare Kintyre Living Village just might be what you’re looking for.

Key takeaways

Buying into a new retirement villa in Dubbo is an independent living option that offers comfort, connection and convenience

Understand the contract, services and costs to find the right fit for your preferred retirement lifestyle

At Kintyre Living, you'll enjoy Dubbo's warm sense of community and the benefits of a well-located retirement community

Why choose Dubbo for retirement living?

For those considering downsizing in retirement, Dubbo offers an enviable mix of relaxed country charm and modern convenience. Located in the heart of the NSW Central West, it is big enough to have the services and amenities you want, yet small enough to feel friendly and welcoming.

Highlights include:

A strong sense of community – friendly locals, active clubs and regular events make it easy to feel connected

Great travel options – air, rail and road links mean visits from family, and trips away are within reach

Beautiful surrounds – leafy streets, open skies and the tranquillity of the Macquarie River

Everyday convenience – from healthcare to supermarkets, boutique shopping, and more

For many people, senior living communities in Dubbo make downsizing in retirement a positive step – offering a strong sense of connection and the convenience of independent living in a vibrant regional hub.

Buying into a new retirement villa in Dubbo

For many people, buying into a new retirement villa in Dubbo is about embracing a supportive, welcoming environment and enjoying a retirement lifestyle that offers both independence and connection, now and in the years ahead. Many people who choose senior living communities in Dubbo also appreciate the sense of belonging that comes with being part of one of the region’s most established retirement communities.

BaptistCare Kintyre Living Village

Just 10 minutes from Dubbo’s town centre and surrounded by beautiful gardens, Kintyre Living blends privacy, comfort and community spirit.

Kintyre Living is an independent living community designed for people who value a retirement lifestyle that embraces both social opportunities and quiet spaces.

Facilities include:

A Country Club

Indoor heated pool

Bowling green

Tennis court

Library

Hair salon

Landscaped gardens and walking paths

Life at Kintyre Living is flexible – join in village events, play a game on the bowling green, swim in the pool, or simply enjoy the peace and privacy of your own home. Here, you shape each day in your own way.

A new stage of development

Kintyre Living will soon welcome 40 brand-new architecturally designed two and three-bedroom villas, ready for move in late 2026.

These modern, low-maintenance residences feature premium finishes and thoughtful architectural design, offering comfort, style and ease – perfect for those wanting to embrace a retirement lifestyle and the benefits of living in Dubbo. Each home is designed to maximise lifestyle and entertaining opportunities, making them ideal for anyone considering downsizing in retirement.

With limited availability, now may be the time to explore Kintyre Living and discover whether an independent living community is right for you.

What does ‘buying into a retirement villa’ actually mean?

When you buy into a new BaptistCare retirement villa, you’re not buying a property in the traditional sense, nor are you renting. You’re securing the right to live in a home you can call your own within one of our retirement communities, with access to its facilities and services.

What to consider before making the move

According to the 2024 PWC/Property Council Retirement Living Census, the average age on entry into a retirement village is 75.

This suggests people move when they’re ready to prioritise comfort, community and a lifestyle that frees them from the upkeep of a larger home. For many, downsizing in retirement is about finding the moment that feels right – whether you’re looking to the future or considering making the decision soon.

Before buying into a new retirement villa, it’s important to understand the contract, so you know exactly what’s included. The contract will outline:

Facilities and services
Emergency, medical and security arrangements

Options for in-home support or aged care accommodation if your needs change

Maintenance and gardening services

Rules about pets and parking

The key financial details – such as your entry fee, recurrent fees and exit fee

How the refund process works when you leave

Understanding the costs of buying into a retirement community is also essential. At BaptistCare, we pride ourselves on our flexible financial options, which empower you to make the choices that are right for you. At BaptistCare, these include:

Entry fee (ingoing contribution) – this is the amount you pay to secure your home in the village. This fee is refunded on departure, less the Deferred Management Fee (DMF) (see below) and any agreed deductions.

Recurrent or ongoing fees – These fees cover some big-ticket expenses, such as property insurance, rates, repairs and maintenance and capital items.

Exit fee (DMF) – At BaptistCare, we pride ourselves on our flexible financial options, which empower you to make the choices that are right for you. The exit fee, or DMF, is deducted from your refunded entry fee when you leave and helps keep your ingoing contribution lower.

Your contract will explain how these fees work. We’ve outlined them in more detail in our Retirement Living Financials Explained guide.

You can also find more general information about contracts and financials, by visiting the NSW Fair Trading checklist for moving into a retirement village.

Frequently asked questions

Making the move to Kintyre Living

At BaptistCare, our retirement living communities are designed to support your independence, lifestyle and wellbeing – helping you live well, your way.

At Kintyre Living, you’ll enjoy independent living in a supportive community and a lifestyle that encourages connection and independence – a place you can truly feel at home.

To find out more, call us on 1300 275 227 or visit https://baptistcare.org.au/retirement-living/locations/kintyre-living-village/

To register your interest and be one of the first to receive updates on our new Kintyre Living villas, enquire today.

Make an enquiry

If you would like to know more, please complete the form and one of our retirement living specialists will be in touch.

Explore the good life – Buying into a new retirement villa in Dubbo