Frequently Asked Questions

What is Riverbend?

Riverbend is a secure, coastal resort-style residential community consisting of affordable, newly constructed homes that have been purpose designed for active residents aged from 55 years.

Where is Riverbend located?

Riverbend is located at the south western edge of Ballina, approximately 200 metres from West Ballina shopping complex, about 4 kilometres from the beach and a short drive or walk from the river. We are 20 minutes by road from Byron Bay, 50 minutes from the Gold Coast and 2 hours from Brisbane.

What facilities does Riverbend have?

Riverbend offers a large, fully equipped community clubhouse with a gymnasium, library, craft room, dance floor, full kitchen and recreational facilities. There is also a 20m heated swimming pool, bowling green, landscaped grounds, picnic and BBQ areas. There is a secure, caravan and boat storage compound, video security, wide, well lit streets and walkways. Seated areas, community gardens and secure electric gate entrance complete the picture.

How much do Riverbend homes cost?

Norfolk Homes is the preferred builder on Riverbend and offers a selection of 2 and 3 bedroom homes starting at around $280,000.

What are the ongoing costs?

Riverbend Homeowners pay a weekly site fee which is reviewed annually. The site fee is paid to Riverbend via direct debit from the Homeowners bank or credit union account.

Some homeowners may be eligible for Federal Government Rent Assistance. In order to check your eligibility contact Centrelink the local office is located in Tamar St, Ballina.

At Riverbend there are no council rates or body corporate fees, no stamp duty or legal fees payable. The only additional cost will be a one-off payment of $15.00 for a security pass. It is important to note too that there are NO exit fees.

Each Homeowner is responsible for the upkeep of their home and the cost of utilities such as power, gas, water and phone. Last, not least, any public liability insurance.

The village has security access. How do my visitors contact me?

For security reasons, the entrance to the Riverbend is by card or access code. The pedestrian gate has an intercom system allowing visitors to contact you. New residents will be provided with a numbered access card for the gates, and an information leaflet for the use of your telephone / intercom system.

I have a small dog, are pets allowed?

Small dogs (under 10 kilos) that you already own can live with you at Riverbend providing that they do not disturb other residents. As Riverbend has a general no pet policy, this animal may not be replaced.

Will all the homes be owner-occupied?

Riverbend  accepts only owner / occupiers. Homeowners are expected to occupy their home as their principal place of residence. Owners are not permitted rent out their home at Riverbend.

How does the lease work?

Riverbend Homeowners sign a standard lease as approved by the Manufactured Homes Association. This lease is designed to help keep Riverbend a place for everyone to enjoy.

Remember, as a Riverbend resident you own your own home - but you lease the land it stands on. This allows Riverbend to maintain a good quality of life in the community by making it possible to terminate the lease of a resident who, for example, disturbs other residents or does not keep up the payment of site fees.

What if I want to sell my home?

Should you decide to sell your home at Riverbend you can either engage a local real estate agent to act on your behalf or request that Riverbend act on your behalf. If Riverbend acts as an agent in the sale of your home and makes a sale, a commission of 3% plus GST is paid.

 If you sell your home yourself, a transfer charge is payable to cover the evaluation and establishment of accounts / leases / village rules / village access for the incoming homeowner. This charge is based on the time taken to carry out these processes. Riverbend has NO exit fees.

I want to live at Riverbend … what do I do now?

Call us at Riverbend on 02 6681 2000, we will be happy to assist you with further information and explain which sites are available.

When you’ve chosen a site, we will take a $2,000 deposit to hold the site for you for up to 3 months. You then will proceed to sell your current property using this time to finalize the details of your new home design. This will ensure a smooth transition into Riverbend for you.  Of course, if your property is already sold, matters can proceed much faster. Remember to contact us or plan a visit to Riverbend - we are here to help you get the lifestyle you deserve!

Visit Us: Pacific Highway, Riverbend Drive, West Ballina.

Click here to view map

Email: info@riverbend.com.au