How Wayne and Marie turned a move to the coast into a lifestyle upgrade

For Wayne and Marie, downsizing wasn’t about giving something up. It was a lifestyle upgrade about the life they’d always wanted.

After years of living in a unit on the NSW South Coast, the couple were ready for a change that would give them more freedom, less maintenance, and more time to enjoy the things they love. When a neighbour recommended Lincoln Lifestyle Eden Gardens, they decided to take a look.

“We came, had a look, and the rest is history,” Wayne recalls. “We’ve lived here for a year now and love it.”

More time for the things that matter

Located just moments from Aslings Beach on the Sapphire Coast, Eden Gardens offered exactly what Wayne and Marie were looking for: a relaxed coastal lifestyle with everything close by.

These days, Wayne starts many mornings with a walk along the beach with their two cavoodles, Bronson and Toby.

“Being so close to the beach means I can walk the dogs along the sand every morning,” he says. It’s something I didn’t have time for before, but now we’re only a short drive away and I have a more relaxed schedule, it’s part of our daily routine.”

For the couple, the move wasn’t just about finding a new home. It was about embracing a more rewarding way of life.

Financial freedom and peace of mind

One of the biggest benefits of the move was the financial flexibility it created. By downsizing, Wayne and Marie unlocked additional capital while moving into a home that better suited their lifestyle today.

Just as importantly, they gained peace of mind.

“Everything is well-kept and secure, and we appreciate that you can go away and not worry about your home,” Wayne says.

“We went up to Queensland for four weeks recently and not once were we concerned about our house. “

That freedom to travel, explore and enjoy life without worrying about property upkeep has become one of their favourite parts of living at Eden Gardens.

A lifestyle that feels more rewarding

For many people, retirement is an opportunity to focus less on maintenance and more on experiences.

Whether it’s a morning walk by the ocean, meeting friends for coffee, enjoying nearby golf and bowls facilities, or heading away on a road trip, Wayne and Marie feel their move has opened the door to a richer and more fulfilling lifestyle.

“There’s no hustle and bustle, the community is quiet, private and laid back and everyone is friendly,” Wayne says.

Even their dogs Bronson and Toby have settled into coastal life.

“The dogs are enjoying the move too” he laughs. “They’re more relaxed with space to play in the yard and will follow me out to sit in the sun or chase butterflies and shadows. It’s been great for them, and us.”

Starting a lifestyle upgrade by the coast

Having the beach just moments from home has become one of Wayne and Marie’s favourite parts of their new lifestyle.

What was once an occasional outing is now part of everyday life, giving them more opportunities to stay active, unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of the coast.

Community Manager Betina Flake says the location is one of the things residents love most about Eden Gardens.

“Residents like Wayne enjoy daily walks at Aslings Beach or visits to the rock pool on the southern end of the beach,” she said.