As we get older or face mobility challenges, the question inevitably arises:
“Should I downsize to a single-level home… or make my current home work for me?”
At Access Lift & Electrical, we hear this question all the time. And more often than not, after running the numbers, people are surprised to discover that installing a home lift or stairlift is not only the smarter option — it’s often the more affordable one, too.
Let’s break it down.
💰 The Hidden Costs of Selling & Moving in Cairns and FNQ
Downsizing sounds simple — but moving is rarely as cost-effective as people expect. Here’s where your money really goes:
1. Real Estate Agent Commission
Most agents in FNQ charge 2–3% commission on the sale price. On a $500,000 home, you’re paying $10,000–$15,000, just to sell. On an $800,000 home, you’re paying $16,000-$24,000!
2. Stamp Duty on Your New Home
Stamp duty in Queensland adds up fast — even on a cheaper home. You could be looking at $10,000–$20,000+ in government fees alone. On an $800,000 in QLD this equates to $25,000!
3. Moving Costs
Packing, removalists, cleaning, temporary accommodation — it all adds up. Expect to spend at least $2,000–$5,000, and that’s without considering the physical and emotional stress.
4. Renovations & Adjustments
Most “downsized” homes still require updates — ramps, rails, bathroom modifications — to suit your long-term needs. These can run into the thousands.
🏡 A Smarter, Simpler Alternative: Install a Home Lift
Rather than leaving the home you love, you could future-proof it with a home lift or stairlift — often for less than the total cost of downsizing.
✨ Why Choose a Home Lift?
✔ Stay in the home you love, surrounded by memories, community, and comfort
✔ Avoid costly fees like stamp duty and agent commissions
✔ Maintain your independence by moving between floors effortlessly
✔ Increase your home’s value with a stylish, functional accessibility upgrade
✔ Enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re set up for the future
And thanks to a range of options — from compact stairlifts to elegant through-floor lifts — there’s something for nearly every budget and home layout.
🔍 What Does a Home Lift Cost in FNQ?
At Access Lift & Electrical, our residential lift solutions start from as little as $5,500 for a straight stairlift, while more advanced home lifts range between $35,000–$90,000, fully installed. That can be significantly less than the combined cost of selling and buying a new home.
Even better? Many of our clients are eligible for GST exemptions, NDIS funding or Home Care Package support, which can dramatically reduce your out-of-pocket expense.
🛠️ Real FNQ Homes. Real Results.
We’ve helped hundreds of local residents from Bundaberg to Thursday Island, Cairns, Townsville, Innisfail, Port Douglas, and surrounding areas stay in their homes comfortably with reliable, safe, and beautifully integrated lift solutions.
Whether you need a Swift Pro lift for elegant multi-level access, a Compact Home Lift to fit into tight spaces, or a heavy-duty stairlift for daily ease — we’ve got the right solution for your lifestyle and layout.
📞 Ready to Explore Your Options?
Downsizing isn’t your only choice. Before you sell the home you love, talk to the friendly team at Access Lift & Electrical. We’ll guide you through all your lift options, help you access funding if you’re eligible, and provide a stress-free installation experience.
🔗 Get in Touch Today:
📧 Email: info@accesslift.com.au
📞 Phone: 07 4000 4893
📍 Servicing Cairns & all of Far North Queensland
👉 Request a Quote
📄 Download Our Brochure
#CairnsHomeLifts #FNQMobilitySolutions #AccessLiftAndElectrical #NDISHomeModifications #StairliftsCairns #HomeLiftCostsFNQ #AgeInPlaceFNQ #CompactLifts #StayInYourHome #FutureProofLiving
