SELLING UP? THE TIPS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Celebrity interior designer Kellie Richardson reveals the top three biggest turnoffs that make homebuyers walk away. Understanding these pitfalls can help sellers avoid costly mistakes and present their homes in the best light.
“Homebuyers are quick to judge and certain aspects of a property can leave a negative impression. Sellers need to identify and address these issues to maximise appeal and ensure a successful sale,” Richardson said.
Richardson is the founder and CEO of Kurved by Design, Australia’s leading staging and interior design business. She shares her insights to help property sellers achieve the best price possible and avoid the property languishing on the market for months.
There are three main mistakes that property sellers make and these can easily be avoided.
Fugly family photos
“Family photos should not be shared. This particularly important when trying to sell your home. No one wants to see overly personal or awkward family photos while touring a home,” Richardson said.
“Large imposing wedding photos or photos of your family on vacation wearing budgy-smugglers poolside in Bali can distract buyers and make it difficult for them to envision themselves in the space. Short of needing counselling, it is likely the potential buyers won’t come back for a second inspection.
“Replace personal photos with neutral artwork or leave walls bare to create a clean slate.
“Your home should invite buyers to imagine their future, not showcase your past vacations.”
Yukky odours
“Unpleasant odours are an immediate red flag for buyers and can ruin their impression of a property,” Richardson said.
“Some of the worst odours include bathroom and toilet odours. Ensure bathrooms are spotless and well-ventilated.
“Musty rooms and foot odour is a revolting turnoff. Eliminate musty smells and odours emanating from wardrobes or storage spaces. Put your shoes away somewhere so that they can’t be seen or smelled. Better still, pack them up into a box and put them in the shed.
“Kitchens can be very problematic. Remove old food and clean thoroughly to ensure no lingering smells in areas like the kitchen or laundry. Teenage kids are particularly good at cultivating bad smells thanks to left over lunch in their school bag or used sports gear in the cupboard.
“You may be immune to these smells if you have lived with them every day. A fresh, clean scent makes a home far more inviting and memorable for buyers.”
“YOUR HOME SHOULD INVITE BUYERS TO IMAGINE THEIR FUTURE”
Grot and grime
“Visible dirt and neglect are major turnoffs that can make a home feel uncared for and appear unclean,” Richardson said.
“Focus on ensuring that grime on taps and fixtures is removed. Polished taps and appliances instantly improve a kitchen or bathroom’s appeal. Ensure all appliances are clean and free from stains and grease.
“Wipe down or repaint walls to give rooms a fresh appearance. A little effort in cleaning and maintenance goes a long way in creating a positive impression.”
Richardson said buyers are nosey.
“Even though they are not supposed to touch anything when they visit open homes, we know they do. They open cupboards, drawers and look in the oven, microwave and other appliances and closed areas. Make sure your property is spotless and very clean,” she said.
CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE
Upcoming releases in Marian’s Mana, Oran Park
CONTACT:
Oran Park Sales Office
Jeff Webb • 9043 7500
OPEN YOUR EYES TO BEAUTIFUL ORAN PARK
What is so great about this property?
Marian’s Mana is a prestigious master-planned community offering architecturally designed residences in one of south-west Sydney’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods.
Nestled between the Oran Park Town Centre and its many amenities and the proposed Lake Pondicherry precinct, with its
foreshores, boardwalks, cafés and activity spaces, this family-friendly neighbourhood brings the best of both worlds to your every day.
With easy access to Brooking Park, Whiteman Park, DawsonDamer Park and the proposed 10-hectare lake, you’ll always find the perfect spot for a walk, picnic or quiet reading spot, moments from your front door.
Who does this property suit?
Anyone who’s wanting a more relaxed lifestyle, up-market living without many of the chores that come with premium homes.
Tell us about the suburb this property is in?
Oran Park Town is a master planned development, designed and being built for a thriving community.
Greenfields Development Company began Oran Park in 2010 and its projected to complete the Town in the early 2040s. The Oran Park Town Centre is at the heart of the master-planned development offering residential, commercial and retail offerings as well as substantial civic and community amenities for residents and daily workers. Visit today!
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
Pendragons Abreast: supports the wellbeing of breast cancer survivors through the sport of dragon boating.
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
Come and try and have a chat over a coffee & morning tea.
Contact the membership coordinator for dates & times: 0 0407 278 384
Creating a beautiful home that can handle a busy family has never been easier
The Genero luxury vinyl collection is stylish, durable and easy to maintain.
With over 50 styles to choose from, it really is the smart choice.
Visit us in-store or view at choicesflooring.com
Choices Flooring Penrith
131 Coreen Ave, Penrith (02) 4731 4242
St Clair 39 Solander Drive
ARE YOU UP TO THE CHALLENGE?
This property presents a rare opportunity to enter the housing market at an affordable price but there is a catch. The property requires a full renovation. The bathroom has been partially renovated so this is a major plus. Set on secure private battle axe block in this much sought after location is a major plus and with imagination, creativity and work, this could become the ideal family home or investment. The home’s basic layout provides 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 living areas, inter nal laundry and open kitchen space. In addition the covered outdoor entertainment area doubles up as a generous oversized carport.
To be auctioned on site Saturday 8th March at 3:00pm
Open Home Saturday 2:30pm - 3:00pm
For more details contact
Ross Heidtmann 0407 113 039 Peter Stanford 0417 333 322
2/314 High Street, Penrith
Cranebrook 11/40 Bottlebrush Drive
A HIDDEN GEM
This well presented three bedroom Villa offers a spacious open living area with large windows to allow plenty of natural lighting, quality carpet floors and a large split system A/C unit to ensure all year comfort. The stunning galley style Kitchen offers an array of high & low cupboards, plenty of bench space, stainless steel wall oven, large fridge alcove and stainless steel sink. There are three good sized bedrooms all with ceiling fans. Outside is an open paved area which overlooks the stunning lawn & gardens complimenting the property There is a single lock-up garage with drive thru access to the backyard and easy inter nal access.
$700,00 to $730,000
Open Home Saturday 11:00am – 11:30am
For further information please call Ross Heidtmann 0407 113 039
2/314 High Street, Penrith
Claremont Meadows 250 Caddens Road
From the moment you step into the grand foyer entry, you’ll be captivated by the home’s elegant design and impressive proportions. Multiple living areas include a generously sized formal lounge and dining room, as well as a separate, spacious media/family room. A new gourmet kitchen featuring an open-plan layout that flows into a large informal dining area and a sun-filled sitting space, both overlooking the outdoor entertaining area and sparkling inground pool. Upstairs there is a rumpus room and five generous bedrooms, plus a downstairs study or optional sixth bedroom, while the ensuite and main bathroom provide a touch of luxury. Additional standout features include ducted air conditioning, a solar system, an alarm system, a built-in music system, and much more.
To be auctioned on site Saturday 15th March at 1:30pm Open Home Saturday 1:00pm – 1:30pm
Details and appointments please call Tony Liras 0425 269 611 2/314 High Street, Penrith
Kingswood 2/14a Stapley Street
Tucked away off the street, in a very small complex, is this amazing double storey townhouse that is perfect for anyone looking to purchase their first home buyer or investment. There is a great sized lounge living area with timber blinds plus manual security screen shutters and a large dining/family area at the back. For all year comfort, there is a large split system A/C unit. Upstairs you will find the three great sized bedrooms each with built-in robes. Outside is a very private courtyard with huge concrete area and built-up garden bed. This Townhouse is the only one that has a fully fenced front yard area within the complex.
Property Showcase
Open Home Saturday 12:00pm – 12:30pm
For further information please call Ross Heidtmann 0407 113 039
2/314 High Street, Penrith
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE
Iam often asked by parents considering enrolling their child into swimming lessons ‘How long will it take for my child to Learn To Swim?’. Unfortunately, it is not a question I can answer simply, as every child is different, and learning to swim is a long term, ongoing process. As to when to start, Australian experts recommend starting swimming lessons from six months, but you can and should practice early water familiarisation before this. Babies are not born with a fear of the water, instead this fear is acquired, so make sure baby has regular baths and showers, and becomes comfortable with the sensation of water being trickled and then poured over their head. Your six-month-old will then accept the water more readily, and with less fear than an older child.
Drowning happens quickly and silently and the impact on families is devastating. Children aged 0-4 years are at high risk of drowning. Young children are naturally curious and attracted to water but do not yet understand the concept of danger. The earlier a small child can get to the side of the pool after a jump or fall into the water and pull themselves out, the better and the safer they will be. Acquiring this skill takes time and practise but is worth every effort to master. Consistency is the key to the development
and maintenance of swimming skills, so attending lessons should become an established part of your child’s weekly routine throughout their infant, preschool and early
school years. Regular lessons all year round allow your child to practise the swimming skills appropriate to their developmental stage and learn at their own pace.
Not seeing much progress this month? As with any skill, it is normal for the child to go through periods of plateau, regression and developmental leaps throughout the process of learning to swim, but over time constant progress is being made. Patience and encouragement is the key.
We usually say (as general guide) that your child has become a capable swimmer when they are able to swim 400 metres with good technique, without stopping, and without becoming exhausted. This level of skill may take children individual amounts of time to reach, but it establishes a strong swimming foundation. These swimming skills should then be retained in children over seven years of age, whereas younger children need consistent reinforcement to maintain their competency.
It is important to remember that swimming is not just another option on the list of sports and activities available to children – it is an invaluable lifelong skill that may just save their lives. We offer swimming lessons seven days a week. Jump onto the website www. nepeanaquaticcentre.com.au or give us a call.
THE RISING STAR IN THE AI ARENA TALKING
The field of AI has a new major player: Deepseek. Founded in 2023, DeepSeek AI is a Chinese artificial intelligence company that has demonstrated performance comparable to that of other leading LLMs like OpenAI’s GPT-4 and Google Gemini.
What does this mean?
DeepSeek was developed at a fraction of the cost of other models. Being open source means that the code used to create it is freely available on the Internet. Rather than using the cloud version, you can download it locally on your PC and use it as a standalone AI. It has made AI available to everyone. You can take the code, modify it, and change it to suit your requirements.
Its open-source philosophy also fosters a more collaborative and accessible AI ecosystem. By sharing its models and training data, DeepSeek enables researchers and developers worldwide to build upon its work. However,
this is a double-edged sword as it can also be modified to use as a weaponised version for cyber security.
What is it like when using it? Like most AI tools, it has its strengths and weaknesses. Being new, it, like its predecessors, will have some issues that will be ironed out over each release. It has full access to the Internet and will provide relevant and up-todate information. Like other models, you need to verify everything. For businesses, access to the Deepseek API is a fraction of the cost of its competitors. This means that if you are developing a tool using AI, Deepseek will cost you significantly less. Comparing it to the other major models, I have found it to be as good as the other major models for most of the queries I raised. For responses requiring any calculation or justification, Deepseek lists out the reasoning and justification for its answer prior to the actual answer, which I found
The Experts
DAVID NORRIS
Nortec IT 9894 9514
to be very helpful. It can do mathematical calculations and generate programming code in multiple languages. It can tackle complex tasks, think critically, and draw logical conclusions.
Security risks: The primary concern is that Deepseek is Chinese-owned. Like many AI companies, it collects user data to train and improve its models. The problem is that the Chinese government could access this data.
My thoughts: Deepseek is a great alternative for everyday individual use. For business, at least for now, I would recommend using one of the other models.
OUTRUNNING DEMENTIA
The positive effects of physical activity and exercise on cognition and brain function has been well documented over recent years. Dementia describes a collection of symptoms that are caused by disorders affecting the brain. It is not one specific disease. Dementia affects thinking, behaviour and the ability to perform everyday tasks. Brain function is affected enough to interfere with the person’s normal social or working life. The hallmark of dementia is the inability to carry out everyday activities as a consequence of diminished cognitive ability. In addition, affected patients have memory loss and lack of insight into their problems. Dementia is generally associated with age, but early onset dementia also occurs. There is around 500,000 Australians living with dementia and almost 1.6 million Australians involved in their care. Of all the lifestyle changes that have
been studied, partaking in regular exercise appears to be one of the best things that you can do to reduce your risk of getting dementia.
Research has shown positive effects that exercise can prevent or delay the onset of dementia, by slowing down the cognitive decline.
Exercise can help to improve the thinking and
mood of people with dementia, which in turn can reduce the need for medication and encourage social interaction. Exercise may in some patients have a positive impact on the behavioural and psychological symptoms of the condition.
People with dementia are at higher risks of falls. A physiotherapist or exercise physiologist can help reduce
the risk of falls through advice/education as well as through strength training and balance exercises. They can also advise carers or family members on strategies to prevent falls.
Physiotherapists are trained in providing care to clients at all stages of the dementia journey to enable independent living for as long as possible, prevent hospital admissions and reduce the burden on carers.
Home visit physiotherapy is particularly useful for this client group to enabling safe, familiar surroundings and the ability to practice activities that are used every day at home.
Get exercising now!
DEALING WITH KNEE LIGAMENT INJURIES IN DOGS
Unfortunately, knee ligaments are one of the most susceptible parts of the body to injury – whether in humans or animals. Just as NRL players frequently suffer from knee ligament injuries due to the intense strain placed on their joints, dogs are also prone to similar injuries, even if they aren’t running around on a field. One of the most common knee ligament injuries in dogs is a rupture of the cruciate ligament, a crucial stabiliser of the knee joint.
How do I know if my dog has a knee ligament injury?
If your dog is showing signs of a knee ligament injury, early diagnosis and treatment are key to ensuring the best possible outcome. Some common symptoms include:
• Limping on one of the hind legs
• Yelping or whimpering when placing weight on the affected leg
• Reluctance to run, play, or go for walks
• Noticeable muscle loss in the injured leg (it may appear thinner than the other leg)
If you notice any of these signs, take your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Left untreated, a knee ligament injury can lead to chronic pain, joint swelling, and eventually arthritis in the affected leg.
What causes knee ligament injuries in dogs?
Several factors can contribute to knee ligament injuries in dogs, and while some are preventable, others may be beyond an owner’s control.
• High-intensity exercise: Active dogs that engage in sudden or excessive movement – like jumping, turning sharply, or running on uneven ground – are at higher risk of knee ligament injuries. Even a minor trauma can destabilise the knee joint, leading to ligament strain or rupture.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on a dog’s joints, increasing the likelihood of ligament injuries. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight through proper diet and regular exercise can significantly reduce the risk.
• Breed susceptibility: Certain breeds are more prone to knee ligament injuries, especially those with a genetic predisposition to ligament degeneration. Medium to large dog breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, and Shepherds, are particularly susceptible to cruciate ligament damage.
How is a knee ligament injury diagnosed?
Diagnosing a knee ligament injury requires a veterinary examination. Your veterinarian will assess your dog’s gait, perform joint manipulation tests, and may administer pain relief to ease discomfort. In some cases, sedation or a general anaes-
thetic is necessary to conduct a thorough examination. X-rays are often taken to evaluate joint health and rule out other conditions.
Treatment options for knee ligament injuries
Surgery is the primary treatment for cruciate ligament injuries, with the best approach determined based on your dog’s size, activity level, and severity of the injury. Various surgical techniques, such as Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) may be recommended. Rehabilitation, including physiotherapy and controlled exercise, is crucial for a full recovery.
Relax & Unwind
JOANNE
MADELINE MOORE
Boho Astro
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
Adventurous Aquarius: are you feeling restless and rather impetuous? This week you may feel impatient as you continue exploring the long and winding road to more personal freedom. The future beckons, and you’re in a mad hurry to get there. But Venus is now reversing through your local travel zone, so slow down and savour each special moment along the way. On Saturday, get your adrenaline going with some vigorous physical exercise in the fresh air.
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
With Venus now in retrograde mode for six weeks, you may feel restless, stressed or just out-of-sorts. Mercury and retro Venus are both visiting your solitude zone, so you’ll also feel like being on your own. Privacy and self-reflection are paramount, and activities like meditation, contemplation and relaxation are recommended. As actress/writer Shirley MacLaine (a fellow Taurus) observes, “The most profound relationship we will ever have is the one with ourselves.”
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
Venus (the planet of love and relationships) is now retrograde until April 13. So expect other people to annoy, puzzle or frustrate you, as they make odd decisions, stir your emotions or confuse your mind. Don’t try to work out where they are coming from! Aim to be understanding and open-minded. As Swiss psychiatrist (and fellow Leo) Dr Carl Jung observed, “The shoe that fits one person pinches another. There is no recipe for living that suits all cases.”
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
Watch out for stubbornly holding a fixed position: you’re probably not seeing the full picture. If you listen to family, friends and colleagues then you’ll gain a much wider perspective. If you are at the receiving end of some stern words from a loved one, accept the criticism with good grace and then move on. Your quote for International Women’s Day is from fellow Scorpio, Vogue editor Anna Wintour, “I try to remain very open to what others have to say.”
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
This week the Sun, Mercury, Saturn and Neptune are all transiting through your sign. So it’s time to be the most creative, communicative, wise and compassionate Piscean you can be. Your motto is from writer (and fellow Piscean) Dr Seuss, “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.” However – with Venus reversing through your money zone – be extra careful with financial matters.
GEMINI
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
Jupiter is jumping through your sign, which encourages you to tap into your inner confidence and build bridges with others, especially at work. But has an old relationship finally run out of steam? Or is a fair-weather friend criticising your behaviour and holding you back? Retrograde Venus pushes you to review your partnerships and peer group, discard negative influences, and surround yourself with positive people who support your Gemini dreams.
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Mercury and retrograde Venus stimulate your intrigue zone, so no secret is safe as you uncover clues and pick up on cues that other people miss. Be careful what you unearth because you could stir up current issues or problems from the past. Lust and loot also loom large, as you work through matters involving trust, intimacy, shared possessions or joint finances. Be extra patient, as retro Venus complicates communication, frustrates plans and stymies progress.
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
Venus is retrograde for the next six weeks, which will boost your temperamental tendencies, and you could end up alienating an authority figure (like your boss) or a loved one (like your partner). Hopefully you won’t put too many noses out of joint, as Jupiter encourages you to be more philosophical when communicating with others. Sometimes you need to lose a minor battle in order to win the war! The weekend’s a good time to go on an adventure with a relative.
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
Venus (the planet of love, money and relationships) is now reversing through your sign. So expect a tricky time when you may feel as if an area of your life is stalling or even going backwards. Weigh up the pros and cons of any choices you make. And – if you can – delay making important decisions until after April 13, when Venus turns direct and things will run more smoothly. Saturday is good for sporting activities and physical pursuits in the great outdoors.
CANCER
JUNE 22 TO JULY 22
Tread extra carefully with work colleagues and acquaintances Crabs, as Venus is now reversing through your career/reputation zone. Deft diplomacy and clever cooperation will get you a lot further than sulky moods and emotional manipulation. Vigorous physical exercise and proactive goal setting are encouraged, as dynamic Mars charges through your sign. Saturday’s terrific Sun/Mars trine favours leadership, ambition, travel and adventure.
LIBRA
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
With Venus (your ruler) now reversing through your relationship zone, the next six weeks is not the best time to join a dating site, start a romance, propose, move in together, get married or renew your wedding vows. Be patient and wait until after April 13. Expect to be more introverted and your social life will be quieter than usual. You’re in the mood for solo leisure activities like walking in the park, reading a book, journal writing or listening to music.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
Retrograde Venus pushes you to adjust your home/work ratio so it’s much more balanced and family friendly. But loved ones won’t behave in predictable ways this week, so don’t even try to anticipate what they will do next. And avoid butting in, being a bossy Goat, and offering (well-intentioned) advice. Close friends and relatives need to make their own
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THEME: BONNIE & CLYDE
SEX APPEAL
SMALL STORES
Last week’s solution
Trivia Quiz
Which two clubs merged to form the Wests Tigers?
5. Canberra entered the first grade competition in what year?
6. Which club is expected to make its NRL debut for the 2028 season?
7. How many seasons did the Cumberland club compete in the NSWRL first grade competition?
rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells
