Frequently Asked Questions

What is Riverbend?

A secure, coastal resort-style residential community consisting of affordable newly constructed homes that have been purpose designed for active residents from 50 years of age.

Where is Riverbend located?

Riverbend is located at the immediate south western edge of Ballina, approximately 200 metres from West Ballina shopping complex, a few kilometers from the beach and a short drive or walk from the river.

What facilities does Riverbend have?

Fully equipped community clubhouse with a gymnasium, library, craft room, dance floor, stage, fully equipped kitchen and recreational facilities. There is also a 20m heated swimming pool, bowling green, landscaped grounds, picnic and BBQ areas, caravan and boat storage compound, video security, walkways and seated areas, community gardens and secure electric gate entrance.

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 $245,000.

What are the ongoing costs?

Riverbend Homeowners pay a weekly site fee (currently $121.60 per week for the 2008/2009 year), which is reviewed annually. Homeowners may be eligible for Federal Government Rent Assistance to help pay the site fee. The site fee is paid to Riverbend via direct debit from the Homeowners bank or credit union account.

There are no council rates or body corporate fees, no stamp duty or legal fees payable. The only additional costs will be $15.00 for a security pass. Each Homeowner is responsible for the upkeep of their home and the cost of utilities such as power, gas, water, phone and any public liability insurance.

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

For security purposes, entrance to the village 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 10kg) 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 dog may not be replaced.

Will all the homes be owner-occupied?

Riverbend will only accept Homeowners who intend occupying their homes as their principal place of residence. You may not rent out your Riverbend home.

How does the lease work?

Riverbend Homeowners sign a standard lease as approved by the Manufactured Homes Association. This lease is designed 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's on. This allows Riverbend to maintain the 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 payments of their site fees.

What if I want to sell my home?

As a service, Riverbend can sell your home for you. If Riverbend acts as an agent in the sale of your home and Riverbend makes a sale, a commission of 3% including GST is paid. If you sell your home yourself, a transfer charge is payable to cover the evaluation and establishment of the incoming homeowner. This charge based on the time taken to carry out this process.

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

Call Riverbend on 02 6681 2000 and speak with our sales team, who would be happy to assist you with further information and site availability. When you’ve chosen a site, a $2,000 deposit can be taken to hold the site for you for up to 3 months. Once paid, generally you proceed to sell your home (if applicable) and during this time finalise the design of your new home. This will ensure the smoothest transition into Riverbend.

Visit Us: Pacific Highway, Riverbend Drive, West Ballina

Click here to view map

Email: info@riverbend.com.au