THE TIPS YOU NEED FOR A SUCCESSFUL HOME SALE
Selling your home can be a complex process, especially in the current Australian property market. With ongoing talk of shifts in interest rates and changing buyer preferences, it’s crucial to approach the sale strategically with the right advice from experts who understand the market.
LocalAgentFinder provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to ensure your selling journey is a smooth one.
Understand the market conditions
It’s important to get the most accurate read on market conditions specific to your location and property. Speaking with a knowledgeable real estate agent who understands local trends and dynamics is one of the first steps you should take to understand how
these market shifts relate to your specific situation.
Get a professional valuation
Accurately pricing your property is key to attracting serious buyers and achieving the best outcome.
While professional valuations provide a baseline estimate, your real estate agent offers deeper, practical insights. By analysing recent sales of comparable properties, buyer demand, and shifts in the local market, agents provide a more dynamic and up-to-date perspective on your property’s value. This context is crucial – not just to setting the right price but also to shaping a sale strategy that resonates with current buyers. Engaging an experienced agent ensures your property is priced to minimise time on the market while maximising appeal to the right buyers.
Choose the right real estate agent
Choosing the right real estate agent is crucial for a successful home sale. Agents with a strong local track record, negotiation skills, and positive client reviews are key.
This is also the ideal time to appoint a conveyancer. Your agent and conveyancer work together to manage the legal and administrative aspects of the sale, ensuring the transaction progresses smoothly from offer to settlement.
“GETTING
ALL THE DOCUMENTS SORTED WELL IN ADVANCE IS KEY”
Preparing your home for sale
To attract potential buyers, it’s important to present your home in the best possible light. Start by addressing visible wear and tear, such as repairing leaky taps, replacing outdated fixtures, and fixing wall imperfections to create a well-maintained and modern look.
A skilled real estate agent with a strong brand can amplify your property’s reach by using a range of marketing channels to connect with the right buyers. Professional photography that highlights your home’s best features is crucial, and a well-established agent will know how to use their network to promote your property across multiple platforms, from traditional advertising to social media.
Setting the price and negotiating
Price your property competitively based on valuation and
market conditions to avoid deterring buyers or undervaluing your asset. Prolonged market presence can raise concerns about potential issues with the home.
Accept an offer and sign the contract
Once you accept an offer, the next step is to sign the contract of sale. Ensure all terms are clear, and both parties understand their obligations. The contract should include details like the sale price, deposit amount, settlement date, and any special conditions.
Prepare for settlement
Settlement, the final step in the selling process, involves transferring ownership to the buyer and typically takes 30 to 90 days. Having a conveyancer on board from the beginning –ideally when you appoint your real estate agent – ensures you are well-prepared to accept offers and can streamline the entire process. Early engagement allows your conveyancer to organise key documents in advance, minimising delays and keeping everything on track.
Jared Zak, Principal Solicitor and Director of Dott & Crossitt, underscores this point: “Getting all the documents sorted well in advance is key. We’ve seen that taking the time to do this properly can avoid last-minute problems and make the handover smooth and hassle-free. It not only saves time but also gives both sellers and buyers peace of mind.”
Throughout the settlement period, maintain open communication with your conveyancer, real estate agent, and the buyer’s representatives. This ensures all parties stay aligned and allows for quick resolution of any last-minute issues, facilitating a smooth transition of ownership. For more info, visit https:// www.localagentfinder.com.au.
Jared Zak, Principal Solicitor and Director of Dott & Crossitt.
A SLICE OF TRANQUILLITY
What’s so special about this property?
“Cuddy Park” is an equestrian dream with premium facilities, including paddocks, stables, a sand dressage arena, and a beautifully renovated five-bedroom home, plus a self-contained studio, all set on 6+ acres of level,
private land close to town. It’s a dream property!
Who does this property suit? This property is perfect for equestrian enthusiasts, families, or anyone seeking a peaceful, semi-rural lifestyle with exceptional horse facilities, a luxurious
home, and the convenience of being just minutes from town.
Tell us about the suburb this property is in?
The suburb combines natural beauty, privacy, and a semi-rural
atmosphere, offering a tranquil lifestyle with easy access to town amenities. It’s ideal for horse lovers, families, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat while staying well-connected to local services and schools.
hard flooring and window furnishings – there are significant discounts across some of our most popular lines.
GIZZELLE P OWELL M: 0428 934
GIZZELLE P OWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au
Ma rian’s Mana is a pre stig iou s maste r-plan ne d pre ci nct offer i ng prem iu m land lots and a rchite ct ural ly des ig ne d res idence s i n one of South-West S yd ney’s faste st-g rowi ng com mu nities.
PR ICES START FROM $554, 50 0
FE AT URES MANICURED GARDENS AND GREEN SPAC ES , ALL MAIN TA INED UNDER A CO MMUNIT Y TITLE SCHEME
WELL PO SITIONED NE AR THE RA PI DLY EX PA NDING OR AN PA RK TO WN CENTRE
Located near Oran Park ’s most popular amenities and shopping precinct, Marian’s Mana invites you to enjoy an addres s that blends nature with urban conveniences. It ’s a place you’ll want to call ho me
*Artist impression
CALL FOR RENT CHANGE
Renters should only have to pay a bond once in their lifetime and could be earning thousands of dollars in interest, under a new proposal the McKell Institute is urging the Federal Government to consider.
potentially build a small safety net over time.
McKell Institute Chief Executive Edward Cavanough said the policy would relieve significant cost-ofliving pressure and stress from renters and he is urging
A National Portable Bond Scheme, recommended by the McKell Institute in its new Rewarding Renters report, would allow renters to transfer their bond between leases rather than scrambling to come up with a second deposit before their previous one is refunded.
Under the National Portable Bond Scheme, renters would also earn interest on their bond which would
the government to take it to an election in which the vote of renters will be pivotal.
“Renters are under enormous financial strain and the current need to double-up on bonds to move often traps people in unsuitable housing,” he said.
“A National Portable Bond Scheme would put real money back into the pockets of people who often desperately need it. We know
106/36-46 Cowper Street, Parramatta
One Bed Unit
the ‘Australian dream’ of property ownership is out of sight for many, yet our entire political class remains obsessed with the interests of homeowners. Renters are overlooked and treated as a minority or pitied for their inability to achieve homeownership.
“Renters need to be treated seriously with practical reforms that offer them real benefits today while laying the groundwork for longterm change.”
By earning interest on their bonds, The McKell Institute estimates renters could accumulate up to $2,600 in interest over 10 years, which could provide much-needed emergency savings if required.
Open: Sat, 10-10:30am | Auction: Sat, 8th Feb |10:00am
Approx 350m to the train station & 750m to Westfield
One bedroom apartment offfering: -Combined living and dining space -North-facing balcony -Open
1503/36-46 Cowper Street, Parramatta
Two Bed Unit
Open: Sat, 10-10:30am | Auction: Sat, 8th Feb | 10:30am
Positioned on level 15 with district views, this modern 2 bedroom home offers:
-West facing with district views
-Open plan kitchen with gas cooking -2 bedrooms with built-in robes
RESISTANCE TRAINING CAN HELP OLDER LOCALS
As the global population ages, maintaining health and independence later in life has become a priority.
Resistance training is recognised as a vital component of healthy aging for older adults. This form of exercise, involving working against a force such as weights or resistance bands, offers a multitude of benefits that go far beyond building muscle.
One of the most significant advantages of resistance training is its ability to combat age-related muscle loss, known as sarcopenia. After the age of 30, muscle mass naturally declines at a rate of 3-8 per cent per decade. This loss accelerates after age 70 to 3-5 per cent per year, leading to decreased strength, mobility, and independence. Regular resistance training helps slow or even reverse this decline, allowing older adults to maintain their physical capabilities and perform daily tasks with ease.
Bone health is another critical area where resistance training
shines. Osteoporosis, a condition characterised by weakened bones, affects millions of older adults, in particular, women.
Additionally, the benefits extend to metabolic health.
Weight-bearing exercises stimulate bone remodelling and increase bone density, reducing the risk of fractures and falls.
Resistance training improves insulin sensitivity, helping to manage or prevent type 2 diabetes. It also boosts resting metabolic rate, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight – an
essential factor in reducing the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions.
Mental health and cognitive function also see improvements with resistance training. Studies have shown that strength training reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety, while also enhancing memory and executive function. The increased blood flow and release of endorphins during exercise contribute to better overall mental well-being.
Importantly, resistance training is adaptable and safe for older adults when done correctly. Starting with light weights or resistance bands and gradually increasing intensity under professional guidance can minimise the risk of injury.
If you’re looking to begin resistance training and not sure where to start, you can book an assessment with one of our Exercise Physiologists. We’ll conduct a thorough evaluation and create an individualised plan to get you on track safely.
Nepean
REMAIN ON ALERT
LONG WEEKEND
The Christmas tree is well and truly packed away, however we still have a few weeks of summer holidays remaining before children return to school and the usual day to day family routine recommences, plus Australia Day and many more weekends before summer is over. Which means there are lots of opportunities remaining for time to be spent by the pool, at the beach, and in and around our waterways – which also means the potential for more drowning tragedies to occur. At least one person drowned every day during last summer, 10 per cent of which were children aged 0–14 years.
Royal Life Saving Australia research shows a consistent peak in drowning cases during the summer months, with the deadliest time being between Christmas and New Year, and December and January recording the highest numbers of drowning deaths. Public Holidays are also heavily represented in stories of drowning. In an effort to understand the increased risks at this time of year Royal Life Saving Australia annually compiles drowning data in real time from December 1 to the end of February.
This year’s data from December 1 2024 to date paints a concerning picture. 66 drowning deaths have been recorded in Australia
since December 1, an increase of four cases as compared to this time last year (62 recorded) and increase of 12 cases on the five-year average (54). This year’s recorded drownings were across all age groups, states, and locations, including the beach, rivers, lakes and swimming pools. No one is immune to drowning.
There are many reasons for the increased number of drowning deaths during this period, including holiday time to spend recreating, warm temperatures, over crowding at popular locations, alcohol consumption, lack of supervision, lack of adequate swim skills, rip currents, rough ocean conditions and other natural hazards, just to name a few.
Drowning is preventable! This Australia Day weekend please focus on your family’s swim safety when around water by supervising children at all times, ensuring all pool fences and gates are secure and self latching, using safety equipment such as life jackets when boating or participating in other water activities, swimming between the flags and following all instructions from lifeguards at the beach, being mindful of hazards when swimming in natural bodies of water such as the ocean, rivers or lakes, and never consuming alcohol before swimming or swimming alone.
Of course, swim skills remain vitally important all year round, so if you or any member of
UNDERSTANDING AND MANAGING HOT SPOTS
Hot spots, also known as pyotraumatic or acute moist dermatitis, are more than just a superficial skin issue – they can rapidly escalate into a painful and distressing condition for dogs. These red, inflamed, and often oozing lesions are typically found on the head, legs, and hips but can develop anywhere on a dog’s body.
Left untreated, they can grow alarmingly fast, turning a small irritation into a large, raw wound within hours.
Hot spots often originate from a simple itch. Dogs instinctively scratch, lick, or chew the irritated area, leading to self-trauma. This triggers a destructive “lick-itch-lick” cycle, where the constant licking exacerbates the irritation, causing the lesion to grow larger.
Moisture from saliva, combined with the natural bacteria in a dog’s mouth –Staphylococcus intermedius – creates an ideal environment for infection. While this bacteria is naturally found in dogs and is harmless to humans (so you can enjoy those doggy kisses worry-free!), the combination of saliva and trapped moisture under the fur is what kickstarts the skin infection.
The location of a hot spot often provides valuable clues to its underlying cause. For example, a hot spot over the hip might indicate arthritis, while one near the ear could
be linked to a painful ear infection. In fact, approximately 30 per cent of pets with hot spots have another underlying skin condition, such as a deeper infection or a bite wound. Hot spots can arise very quickly –just 10 minutes of chewing can create a significantly large lesion.
The triggers for hot spots are varied and often point to an underlying issue. Allergies (environmental or food-related), flea bites, ear infections, poor grooming, boredom, and orthopaedic issues are common culprits. For instance, matted fur can trap moisture after swimming or rain, fostering bacterial growth. Dogs with arthritis might chew at painful joints, inadvertently creating a hot spot.
Prompt veterinary attention is essential when addressing hot spots to minimise discomfort and prevent further complications. Your veterinarian may discuss:
• Stopping the self-trauma
• Use of an Elizabethan collar to prevent licking and chewing.
• Clipping the fur around the lesion to allow airflow, aiding in drying and healing.
• Cleaning the area with a dilute chlorhexidine solution to disinfect and soothe the skin.
Veterinarians may also prescribe antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or pain relief depending on the severity. Identifying and treating the root cause – whether it’s a flea allergy, food sensitivity, or another issue – is crucial for preventing recurrence. Dogs prone to boredom may need additional exercise and mental stimulation, while those with dense coats might benefit from regular grooming. Hot spots are a stark reminder of how quickly minor issues can escalate. By staying vigilant, addressing underlying causes, and seeking veterinary care promptly, you can ensure your dog remains happy and healthy.
If you notice signs of a hot spot, call the friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital at (02) 4736 2027 for advice and support.
Come and try and have a chat over a coffee & morning tea.
Contact the membership coordinator for dates & times: 0 0407 278 384
my name: Vinnie my proud owner: Jess i live in: Cranebrook
Email alison.hall@westernweekender.com.au with your favourite picture of your pet, and include your name, pet’s name, suburb and a blurb about your favourite furry friend. a bit about me: I’m a three-year-old 70kg Great Dane and I was the goodest boy last year! I was super excited to tell Santa what I wanted for Christmas, but I had to do it from a distance because I was too big for Santa’s lap!
At Pendragons Abreast we encourage fitness, wellness, fun and camaraderie. We empower individuals and educate on the benefits of an active lifestyle after breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Our inclusive team consists of breast cancer survivors and supporters of various ages, from a variety of backgrounds and athletic abilities.
Pendragons Abreast Penrith was formed in 2004 and we are also members of the Pendragons Dragon Boat Club, Penrith.
We race and train at the Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) Penrith Lakes and Nepean River at The Nepean Rowing Club Penrith. With opportunities to participate in regattas, travel and race against other breast cancer survivor teams.
Want to know more?
Find us on Facebook: Dragons Abreast Penrith Or contact our Membership coordinator 0407 278 384 Take a look at Dragons Abreast Australia website: www.dragonsabreast.com.au Pendragons Dragon Boat Club: pendragons.online
Relax & Unwind
JOANNE
MADELINE MOORE
Boho Astro
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
There are four planets transiting through your sign – the Sun encourages creativity, the New Moon signals a fresh cycle of growth and learning, and the Mercury/Pluto conjunction boosts concentration. However, with Mars reversing through your wellbeing zone (until February 24), your health and fitness may have taken a backward step. It’s a good time to reboot your diet and exercise program, but make sure you are realistic and take baby steps.
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
You’ll be in the public eye in some way as the Sun, New Moon, Mercury, Jupiter and Pluto stimulate your reputation/ career zone. So you could shine at work, at school or in a volunteer position. When it comes to your job, do you need to improve your skills? Are you looking for employment or is it time to change vocation? The winds of change are blowing so prepare to pivot, Bulls! The lucky Sun/Jupiter trine is terrific for work, finances and self-confidence.
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
Wednesday’s New Moon is about beginnings involving love, marriage, a joint venture or a business partnership as you communicate and cooperate with family, friends and colleagues. It’s also one of the luckiest weeks of the year, as prosperity planet Jupiter trines the Sun (your patron planet). So make the most of any fortuitous opportunities that come along. Your motto is from Oprah Winfrey (who turns 71), “Luck is a matter of preparation meeting opportunity.”
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
The Mercury/Pluto conjunction is about intense communication and powerful conversations, especially with family members and/or housemates. And the New Moon encourages you to patch up a troubled relationship with a relative, as you demonstrate endless patience and hold out the olive branch of peace. Mars is reversing through your holiday zone so make sure you doublecheck all travel arrangements and allow plenty of time to get from A to B.
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
Wednesday’s New Moon lights up your spirituality and solitude zone. So put aside some special ‘me time’ where you can meditate, contemplate, ruminate, slow down, calm down and re-calibrate. Then the Sun/Jupiter trine is wonderful for manifesting dreams – especially involving creative projects, family plans and domestic matters. Your motto is from birthday great Oprah Winfrey, “The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams.”
GEMINI
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
You’re super busy and raring to go but are you achieving anything of substance? This week your ruler Mercury hooks up with meticulous Pluto, so make sure you double-check details and leave plenty of time to get to appointments. If you focus and prioritise (plus tackle tasks in regular short bursts) then you’ll gradually get things done. Wednesday night’s New Moon heralds an insightful realisation about yourself or a welcome mid-week getaway.
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
The Sun, New Moon, Mercury and Pluto all highlight your health and wellbeing zone, so strive to be the fittest and most vibrant Virgo you can be. Get your body moving ASAP! Reinvention is the name of the game, as the planets encourage you to reboot your daily routine with innovation and determination. The best way to manage stress is with relaxing indoor pursuits (like meditation or yoga) and vigorous outdoor activities (like running, cycling or hiking).
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
Wednesday’s New Moon inspires you to contribute your versatile Sagittarian talents to a worthy cause within your local community. Then on Thursday there’s a Sun/Jupiter trine, which is terrific for romantic and platonic relationships, as your humour and generosity charm the birds out of the trees. Ask for what you want, and you shall receive! Be inspired by Oprah Winfrey (who turns 71 on Wednesday), “You get in life what you have the courage to ask for.”
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
The Sun/Jupiter trine and New Moon (in Aquarius) shake up your peer group and networking zone, so you could meet a fabulous new friend or a colleague (or neighbour) from the past could boomerang back into your world! Whatever happens, surround yourself with positive people who encourage your talents and support your dreams. As birthday great Oprah Winfrey observes, “Surround yourself with people who are going to lift you higher.”
CANCER
JUNE 22 TO JULY 22
Crabs are sentimental creatures and can spend too much time in the past. Resist the urge to brood over a relationship gone wrong. This week’s stars help heal your hurt feelings so you can finally let go and move on. The New Moon also signals a major shift in the areas of intimacy or money. Perhaps a passionate new affair or the start of a promising financial partnership? But plenty of patience is required, as Mars reverses through your sign until February 24.
LIBRA
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
Wednesday’s New Moon fires up your family and friendship zone, so focus on the important people in your life who make your world go ‘round. Make sure you love, nurture, and appreciate them to the max! But – with Mars reversing through your professional zone – things are moving slowly on the career front. Perhaps you’re having problems at work or you’re looking for a new job? Be patient, as things will feel twice as hard and take twice as long as usual.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
The New Moon stimulates your cash zone, so take stock of your financial situation and initiate some smart strategies. And don’t forget to do an inventory of your inner wealth, which includes your self-esteem and core values. Remember – you are more than your job, what you earn and what you own. Mars is reversing through your partnership zone so – attached or single – relationships will be extra tricky until Mars finally moves forward on February 24.
65. National
66.
68. Puts
72. Magi’s
Word Search
Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally.
Theme: ANNIVERSARIES
SILVER
SPECIAL DAY
TRIENNIAL
Last week’s solution
Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge about Aussie music in our special trivia quiz this week.
1. Who released the smash hit album ‘Don’t Ask’ in the 1990s, which included hits like ‘Chains’?
2. Greg Ham and Colin Hay were part of which band that dominated the Aussie music scene in the 1980s?
3. Which Aussie country star sings ‘True Blue’?
4. Where is Australia’s popular country music festival held each January?
5. John Farnham and Anthony Warlow toured ‘The Main Event’ concert with what other Australian performer?
6. What was the highest selling single in Australia in 2004, released by Shannon Noll?
