What are exit fees?

Exit fees—sometimes called deferred management fees (DMF)—are charges that some retirement communities apply when you leave or sell your home.

Exit fees are often based on a percentage of the home’s sale price. Over time, they can significantly reduce the money you walk away with.

At Avington Living, we do not charge exit fees.

You’ve worked hard for what you have. We’re here to support your next chapter, not profit from your exit.

Let’s break it down

Some retirement living operators charge an exit fee as much as 4% of the sale price for each year you live there, capped at five years. This means up to 20% of your home’s value could be taken when you leave. Here’s an example…

If you buy a retirement home for $550,000 and stay for five years, then sell it for $600,000:

An exit fee could cost you $120,000.
At Avington, you’d keep the full $600,000.

That’s a $120,000 difference — money that stays with you or your family, not the operator.

It’s a choice between rewarding yourself or handing over a fifth of your home’s value.

No exit fees at Avington

Downsizing shouldn’t mean giving anything up.

At Avington, we believe your retirement years should be rewarding — not complicated by hidden costs. That’s why we’ve taken a clear stand: No exit fees. Ever.

Unlike some other retirement communities that take a cut when you leave, Avington lets you keep 100% of any capital gains. It’s your investment — and it should stay that way.

When you’re looking to downsize, every dollar counts — especially over the long term. That’s why understanding exit fees is so important.

Bedroom corner with a painting of a flower in a vase, a white table lamp on a nightstand, a teal bedding set, and a pillow against a white wall.

Modern living room with gray sofa, two beige armchairs, black coffee table, and decorative pillows. Open floor plan leads to a kitchen area. Neutral colors and minimalist design.

Modern open-plan dining and living area with a black dining table, gray chairs, hardwood flooring, white walls, colorful wall art, and large windows.

Modern bedroom with a neatly made bed featuring blue bedding, white pillows, and a beige throw blanket. A window with sheer curtains and a framed floral artwork hang above the bed. Two modern nightstands with lamps and a vase of flowers are beside th

Minimalist workspace with a computer, keyboard, plant, and chair on a white desk.

Minimalist bedroom with a bed featuring gray bedding, blue and plaid pillows, and a pink throw blanket. A dark wood nightstand holds a lamp and small decor. A window and framed wall art are in the background.

Modern kitchen interior with white cabinetry, black backsplash, and a dining area with gray chairs. Includes stainless steel appliances, an island with a dual sink, and decorative plants.

Why choose Avington?

At Avington, there are no exit fees, no surprises, and no unnecessary stress. It’s a simpler, more secure way to downsize — and one that respects what you’ve worked so hard to build.