Are there any special requirements to become a resident?
At the time of entry applicants generally need to be over 55 years of age and be able to cope with the day to day running of their accommodation.
Who is responsible for paying the cost of insurance premiums in the village?
The weekly service fee includes all insurance premiums with the exception of your normal household contents insurance. Residents are therefore required to insure their own personal effects.
Who is responsible for the cost of general and water rates?
The weekly service fee includes general and water rates.
What "say" will I have as a resident in the operation of The Falls Estate?
The Occupation Right Agreement provides for the setting up of a Residents Committee, which will comprise representatives from the residents and which will advise/liaise with the Directors and the management of the Estate.
What provision is there for ongoing care, as I get older?
The provision of ongoing care is of great importance to the Directors. Planning has been completed for six self care apartments, which will provide accommodation for people who require extra services such as the preparation of meals, cleaning and showering care. Should longer-term extensive medical care be required, then the Village Management will endeavour to make arrangements on behalf of residents with one of the nearby facilities in Whangarei. Only 2% of retired folk would ever require the extensive nursing care off site.
Are visitors allowed?
Yes. Your accommodation at The Falls Estate is your home and as such visitors are always welcome. The Community Centre, restaurant and recreational facilities are available for both residents and their quests.
Are there any limitations to resident’s absence from the village?
Not really. Residents live in their own homes and come and go as they please. One of the many advantages of planned residential estate living is that residents can go on their normal holidays, be it for a week or six months, with greater peace of mind regarding the maintenance and security of their homes. The only requirements are that management is advised of the intended period of absence and of any change which may occur whilst they are away. Payment of the weekly service fee must be maintained as these costs are naturally on-going whether a person is in residence or not.
Can I reserve a home or an apartment for the future?
There are always homes and apartments becoming available on the Estate. We find that most people like to familiarise themselves with the village and our concept, then record their interest with us. When a particular home of your choice becomes available we contact you. If you don't plan moving for a year or two you are still very welcome to visit the Estate now to learn more about the Estate concept and lifestyle.
Is there provision for a garden?
The grounds at the Falls Estate are beautifully landscaped in a manner, which harmonises with the total surrounding environment. The ground staff maintains all areas to a carefully planned and monitored program. Residents can change their gardens to reflect their own personality and taste, provided they continue to maintain them. Vegetable gardens are acceptable providing the resident regularly maintains them.
Are there any "hidden" restrictions?
No - quite the reverse. The Falls Estate provides much more freedom from chores and responsibilities than can be readily envisaged. The only "limitations" are those brought about by the normal considerations and courtesies, which any community of people require from one another.
How to apply
- If you wish to buy into the Estate this simply involves filling in the "Application Form" for your selected home and paying a holding deposit (held by Trustees Executors Ltd and fully refundable if unable to proceed).
- Before you sign up to the village, intending residents must take independent legal advice. Once you have signed the agreement you have 15 working days to change your mind and cancel the agreement.
- There are no registration costs. Your solicitor's fees are of course additional and a matter of private negotiation.
- When you occupy the accommodation of your choice, you pay a weekly service fee (paid monthly). This provides for all rates and taxes, including council rates, rubbish disposal, water and sewerage rates, insurance of all structures and public liability cover, maintenance and security patrols, administration and operation of the community facilities including staff employment costs. The weekly residential fee will only be increased when necessary where increased costs are experienced (primarily due to inflation), and after reference to the Statutory Supervisor, and the Residents Committee.
- The Village Management Company operates the daily running expenses of the Estate on a non-profit basis, with detailed annual budgets carefully administered by the Whangarei Falls Village Ltd.
- Applications will only be accepted on the application form contained in the Registered Occupation Right Agreement.