Five of the best homes in Melbourne for downsizers

September 11, 2026 — 7:00pmLow maintenance, a convenient location near amenities, and an accessible layout make for ideal downsizing properties.Whether you are retiring, an empty nester, or simply looking for something more manageable, here are five of the best Melbourne homes for downsizers.25/120 Cambridge Street, Collingwood VICSet for auction in early October, this Collingwood apartment offers plenty for downsizers.Located in the landmark former Foy & Gibson factory buildings, the two-bedroom residence features a contemporary design that nods to its warehouse origins, with 4.3-metre-high ceilings, expansive proportions, and exposed brick.The open-plan living and dining area captures northern light, while a kitchen with Italian marble benchtops, splashback, and quality appliances connects to a balcony.Other features include a north-facing terrace and a location close to Brunswick and Johnston Streets and to Fitzroy Gardens.Penthouse, 705 Orrong Road, Toorak, VICDesigned by Christopher Doyle, this penthouse apartment at Lascelles Grange offers panoramic city views.The open-plan interior opens to wrap-around north-east and western balconies, creating ideal indoor-outdoor living.The kitchen is a standout with Carrara marble benchtops, a butler’s pantry, fully integrated Miele appliances and a wine fridge.With access to a private gym and landscaped gardens, the apartment is also conveniently located near the Yarra River and Como Park.Sub Penthouse, 1177 High Street, Armadale, VICWith High Street directly below, this Armadale apartment has cafés, restaurants, schools and transport on its doorstep.Located in the Heirloom building, the sub-penthouse has been designed by Woods Bagot in a style inspired by the area’s Victorian and Edwardian architecture.The property offers 180-degree views across the city to the eastern ranges, with full-height glass and an outdoor terrace, while a northern terrace at the rear provides southern views.There are three bedrooms, including a main bedroom with a dressing room and ensuite.Inside, quality fixtures and features are used throughout, including oak floors, high ceilings, natural stone, motorised blinds, Philips Dynalite automated lighting, and smart-lock entry.505/216 Bay Road, Sandringham VICEnjoy low-maintenance bayside living in this Sandringham apartment.‘The Precinct’ building itself offers a range of resident facilities, including entertaining and dining rooms, private workspaces, a wine room, parcel lockers, bike storage and a private cinema, with a gym and a golf simulator arriving in stage three of the development.The apartment has lift access, with open-plan living and dining areas filled with natural light, thanks to 3-metre ceilings and wall-to-floor windows.The location is convenient, close to Sandringham Village and Southland Shopping Centre.101/65 Beach Street, Port Melbourne VICWith a waterfront position, this Port Melbourne apartment is in the Nautica development and offers views of the foreshore, Princes Pier and Port Phillip Bay.Resident features include an outdoor entertainment area and a heated pool, and the location is close to Bay Street cafés, public transport to the city, and schools.More:Victoria residential propertyProperty marketProperty pricesArmadaleCollingwoodPort MelbourneToorakMelbourne house pricesProperty downsizingResidential propertyProperty listingsFrom our partners