Homes from $415,000

Set amidst natural surroundings with a peaceful private pond, Sweetwater Grove provides the perfect setting for those over 50 seeking an affordable, low-maintenance lifestyle. Conveniently located near local shops and essential amenities, this vibrant community offers everything you need.

Hear from our residents

“Since moving to Sweetwater Grove, I’ve felt a real sense of belonging. My husband passed shortly before I moved to here and one of his biggest wishes was to know I would be safe and supported without him, and I can honestly say I feel that here.

There’s always a friendly face to chat with, and plenty of opportunities to be involved, while still enjoying my own space and independence. The community is welcoming and friendly, and it’s easy to connect with neighbours who quickly become friends. I can go away knowing my neighbours will water my plants or keep an eye on my home.

The staff are wonderful too -always approachable and ready to help when needed. I couldn’t be happier calling Sweetwater Grove home, I feel lucky to be here.”

-Dawn

Aspen Group Retirement Communities and Lifestyle Resorts 

Last Updated: June 2026 

Author: Villages.com.au Retirement Living Specialist 

Aspen Group is an Australian lifestyle resort operator offering over-50s communities across New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia and South Australia. Residents typically own their homes and enjoy access to recreational facilities, social activities and a low-maintenance lifestyle. This guide explains Aspen Group locations, amenities, ownership structures, costs and frequently asked questions to help you determine whether an Aspen Group community is right for you. 

About Aspen Group 

Aspen Group is an Australian property company that develops and operates residential, tourism and lifestyle communities. Its over-50s lifestyle resorts are designed for people seeking a more relaxed, community-focused way of living after downsizing or retirement. 

Aspen Group's lifestyle communities focus on providing modern homes, quality shared facilities and opportunities for residents to stay active and connected. The company operates communities across multiple Australian states, including New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia and South Australia.

Unlike traditional retirement villages, many Aspen Group communities are built around a lifestyle resort model that emphasises home ownership, community living and access to recreational amenities. 

What Makes Aspen Group Different? 

Quick Summary 

• Purpose-built communities designed for over-50s living 

• Home ownership opportunities within lifestyle resort settings 

• Modern facilities that encourage active living 

• Secure, community-focused environments 

• Low-maintenance homes and lifestyle benefits 

• Pet-friendly options available at many communities 

• Opportunities for social connection and community engagement 

Where Does Aspen Group Operate? 

Aspen Group Communities by State 

*Community locations may change over time. Always check the latest Aspen Group listings on villages.com.au. 

What Is Living at Aspen Group Like? 

Lifestyle and Social Activities 

Aspen Group communities are designed to support an active and social lifestyle. Residents often have opportunities to participate in organised activities, meet neighbours and enjoy a strong sense of community. 

Depending on the location, activities may include: 

• Resident social clubs 

• Community events and gatherings 

• Fitness and exercise classes 

• Walking groups 

• Arts and crafts activities 

• Hobby and interest groups 

• Games and recreation programs 

• Seasonal celebrations and community functions 

Many residents value the balance between maintaining independence and having opportunities to connect with others when they choose. 

Wellness and Recreation Facilities 

Facilities vary between communities but may include: 

The facilities available at each community should always be confirmed before purchasing. 

Home Ownership at Aspen Group 

Do Residents Own Their Homes? 

Many Aspen Group communities operate under a land lease model, which differs from a traditional retirement village. 

In an Aspen Lifestyle community, residents typically: 

• Purchase and own their home 

• Lease the land on which the home sits through a long-term site agreement 

• Have the right to occupy their site and use community facilities 

• Retain ownership of their home when they choose to sell 

• Benefit from protections provided under state land lease legislation 

This model is designed to provide the benefits of home ownership while reducing some of the costs often associated with traditional property ownership. 

Land Lease vs Retirement Village 

Prospective buyers should always review the specific agreement for their chosen community, as arrangements can vary between locations. 

Buying a Home in an Aspen Group Community 

The buying process is generally straightforward: 

1. Explore available communities and homes. 

2. Visit the community and inspect facilities. 

3. Review the site agreement and disclosure documentation. 

4. Seek independent legal and financial advice. 

5. Purchase your home. 

6. Enter into the site agreement for the land. 

7. Move in and enjoy the community lifestyle. 

Because residents purchase the home rather than the land, entry costs can often be lower than purchasing a comparable freehold property in the same location. 

What Does It Cost to Live at Aspen Group? 

Home Purchase Costs 

The purchase price of an Aspen Lifestyle home varies according to: 

• Community location 

• Home size and design 

• Number of bedrooms 

• Garage configuration 

• Upgrades and inclusions 

• Local market conditions 

One of the key financial advantages of the land lease model is that residents purchase the home without purchasing the underlying land. This can make home ownership more affordable compared with traditional residential property purchases. 

Many Aspen communities also promote: 

• No stamp duty 

• No council rates 

• Lower entry costs than comparable freehold homes 

These benefits can help free up capital from the sale of a family home for travel, investments or lifestyle spending. 

Ongoing Fees and Charges 

Residents generally pay a recurring site fee for the right to occupy their site and access community facilities. 

Site fees typically contribute towards: 

• Community facilities 

• Shared gardens and landscaping 

• Streetscapes and common areas 

• Community management and administration 

• General village upkeep 

Eligible Age Pension recipients may also qualify for Commonwealth Rent Assistance to help offset site fees. 

Are There Exit Fees? 

One of the major differences between many Aspen Lifestyle communities and traditional retirement villages is the approach to exit fees. 

Many Aspen land lease communities advertise: 

• No deferred management fees (DMFs) 

• No large exit fees 

• Retention of 100% of capital gains 

• Retention of the home's resale value (less any applicable selling costs) 

However, exit arrangements can vary between communities. Some established Aspen communities may have a modest exit fee structure, while others advertise no exit fees at all. Buyers should always review the disclosure documents and site agreement for their chosen community before purchasing. 

Why This Differs From a Retirement Village 

Traditional retirement villages often charge a Deferred Management Fee (DMF), which is usually deducted when a resident leaves or sells. Depending on the contract, this can represent a significant percentage of the resale value. 

By contrast, the Aspen land lease model is generally designed around: 

• Home ownership 

• Simpler contractual arrangements 

• Greater retention of capital gains 

• Reduced exit costs 

• Transparency around ongoing fees 

For many downsizers, this can make it easier to understand the long-term financial outcome of their move and retain more of their equity when they eventually sell. 

Who Is Aspen Group Best Suited For? 

Ideal Resident Profiles 

Aspen Group communities may suit: 

• Active retirees 

• Downsizers seeking lower-maintenance living 

• Travellers wanting a secure home base 

• Couples looking for a lifestyle-focused community 

• Singles seeking social connection 

• Homeowners wanting access to shared facilities 

• People seeking community living without the upkeep of a larger property 

Potential Considerations 

Before choosing an Aspen Group community, consider: 

• Preferred location and proximity to family 

• Community rules and regulations 

• Ongoing fees and budget requirements 

• Home ownership structure 

• Lifestyle preferences 

• Available facilities 

• Future care and support needs 

Comparing multiple operators and communities can help you make a more informed decision. 

Find an Aspen Group Community 

If you're considering downsizing or exploring over-50s lifestyle living, Aspen Group communities may offer a combination of home ownership, lifestyle facilities and community connection. 

You can: 

• Browse Aspen Group communities 

• View available homes 

• Compare locations across Australia 

• Request information directly from communities 

• Arrange inspections 

• Compare Aspen Group with other retirement living operators 

Start exploring Aspen Group communities on villages.com.au and find the lifestyle community that best suits your next chapter. 

View all villages and aged care facilities of Aspen Group