From tiny homes to share flats - unconventional ways to downsize

For those looking for something different, there are plenty of less conventional options available from apartments and villas to tiny homes.

Havenn Tiny Houses offers a range of housing options that are cheap, fast to build and mobile.

Co-founder Pravin Kandeepan said Havenn's tiny homes cost between $80,000 and $130,000, depending on size and design.

"They (clients) can sell their existing property and still be able to call something home by purchasing something more affordable," he said.

Homes take just two to three months to build once a sale has been finalised.

Mr Kandeepan said tiny homes also offer a great deal more freedom.

All homes are built on wheels, so clients can choose where they want to live, whether it be on purchased or rented property, a property they already own, or one that is owned by a relative.

He said tiny homes offer more options to those who wish to live in rural areas where housing options are more scarce and construction or renovation is more difficult.

They are also a highly sustainable option due to their size and capacity for off grid living.

Havenn's team works to assess each client's needs in order to determine the design that is most suitable for them.

The company offers discounts of up to $20,000 for specific models and is always running different promotions. Deliveries are available throughout Australia. Those who are interested can contact the company directly to find out what's currently on offer.

If a tiny home isn't your cup of tea, property website downsizing.com.au is well worth a visit.

The site connects older Australians with a wide range of housing options, catering for all needs and budgets.

Chief executive and co-founder Amanda Graham said the site's Senior Flatmates section offers free advertising to people aged 50 and older who are looking to share with others of a similar age.

People who are looking to share their property, those who are looking for a property, and those looking for groups of co-tenants are all welcome to use the service.

While many might think of flat-sharing as an arrangement for younger people, Ms Graham said there are plenty of benefits for retirees and baby boomers.

"For a lot of people it's about cost and finding a rental that's affordable," she said.

"On the other side of things, people may have a house and be looking for other people to help occupy the space and provide a social network."

Another option that is growing in popularity is land lease communities, which allow tenants to lease land from a community operator for their demountable or mobile homes.

Ms Graham said not only is this a very affordable option, it's also a great lifestyle choice, with many communities located in beautiful ocean side locations.

"If you like to fish, or swim, or go to the beach, these are second to none in terms of locations," she said.

For details visit www.havenn.com.au or www.downsizing.com.au.