The new appeal of lakeside living for over-50s buyers

Downsizing today looks different from what it did a decade ago. 

It’s less about giving things up and more about gaining the lifestyle people have worked towards.

According to the 2025 Downsizing Australia Report, co-authored by realestate.com.au and GemLife, buyers over 50 are prioritising design, access to nature, and lifestyle-rich communities when downsizing.

“There’s definitely been a national shift,” says Andrew Coulter, chief operating officer of GemLife, one of Australia’s fastest growing over-50s lifestyle resort operators. 

“People aren’t just looking to reduce maintenance – they want beautiful homes, social connection, wellness amenities, and a real sense of place.  

“It’s about living well, not just living smaller.”

For these reasons, more buyers are turning to premium over-50s resorts like GemLife Moreton Bay.

Inside the lifestyle shift at GemLife Moreton Bay

Set in the Moreton Bay Region, just north of Brisbane, GemLife Moreton Bay offers a blend of convenience and charming natural surroundings.

Residents can access the beaches at Redcliffe and Scarborough, plus nearby shopping centres, healthcare, and public transport.

GemLife Moreton Bay’s latest residential release, part of its premium Emerald Collection, promises stunning lakeside views, top-notch facilities and architecturally designed homes.

“It’s one of our larger resorts, so there’s a great sense of space and connection, but also privacy, thanks to features like no rear neighbours and generous home sizes up to 254.64sqm,” says Mr Coulter.

“With our lakeside homes, the outlook over the water adds a real sense of calm, and the lifestyle amenities are a standout.  

“Homeowners are already enjoying the Summer House, with outdoor pool and barbecue area, and currently under construction is an $18 million Country Club.”

A wellness facility and more summer houses are also on the cards as the resort develops.

How residents are making the move to lakeside 

Danny and Gail Spendiff, 75 and 66, were attracted to the lakeside views and natural setting of GemLife Moreton Bay.

The pair had previously lived at GemLife Pacific Paradise on the Sunshine Coast. 

“We’ve been spoilt with previous homes that we’ve owned – we’ve had real estate on lakes, ocean views, hinterland, rivers,” says Ms Spendiff.

“When we found out about GemLife Moreton Bay, we took a drive down there and we fell in love straight away.” 

Eager to live closer to their grandchildren in Brisbane, the Spendiffs purchased a three-bedroom property on Brolga Lake. 

“We know the quality of GemLife. The homes are absolutely second to none and the finishes are amazing,” says Ms Spendiff. 

“We’re just so excited to think we will sit on our alfresco every morning and overlook this beautiful lake, which is massive, and see the birdlife. 

“The first time we went there and had a look, Danny and I got quite emotional. It’s a breath of fresh air.”

Frank and Astrid Van Der Laan, 64 and 61, were drawn to the lakeside views and sense of community. 

“You’re surrounded by nature, lots of walking paths and birdlife,” says Ms Van Der Laan.

“It’s completely different from other over-50s communities in regard to how spacious and out in nature you are.”

The semi-retired couple lived in an over-50s development on the Gold Coast before deciding to build a new life at GemLife Moreton Bay. 

“We’ve been in an over-50s before and we really like the community spirit of it,” says Ms Van Der Laan. 

“We’re both quite sporty, so we tend to use the sporting facilities, but there’s also a lot of people who go for the art classes or the mahjong or whatever is organised. 

“There’s something for everyone and you can do as much as you want or put your feet up.”

Design for lifestyle: space, outlook and privacy

GemLife Moreton Bay homes are designed to embrace the Queensland lifestyle, with open-plan living, floor-to-ceiling windows and generous outdoor entertaining areas that create a seamless flow between inside and out.  

Premium touches such as Gaggenau appliances elevate the kitchen, blending luxury with everyday functionality. 

“It’s all about light, space, and easy living,” says Mr Coulter. 

“We’re seeing stronger interest in high-quality finishes, thoughtful design, and locations that offer both natural beauty and everyday convenience.  

“It’s no longer just about downsizing – it’s about upgrading a lifestyle.”

More than a home 

Properties start at $1.4 million, and under the land lease model, homeowners enjoy all the benefits of owning their home, without paying stamp duty, entry or exit fees, or sharing capital gains. 

The first stage of lakeside homes is currently under construction, with buyers set to move in from early 2026. 

“The key demographic at GemLife Moreton Bay is active over-50s who are looking for more than the traditional downsizer experience,” says Mr Coulter. 

“They’re young at heart, lifestyle-focused and value quality – not just in their home, but in the way they live day to day.”

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