By CM Lawyers – Strata & Property Law Experts in Marrickville, NSW
Selling a strata apartment in Marrickville isn’t just about timing the market—it’s about understanding the legal, financial, and presentation details that help you achieve the highest possible price. Strata properties come with shared ownership, community rules, and legal obligations that differ from selling a freestanding home.
At CM Lawyers, we’ve helped countless Inner West apartment owners navigate this process successfully. Here, our property law specialists share expert tips to help you maximise your sale price while ensuring your transaction remains fully compliant with NSW strata and conveyancing law.
Understand the Marrickville Strata Market
Marrickville’s property scene has transformed dramatically in the last decade. Once known for its industrial heritage, it’s now one of Sydney’s most in-demand suburbs for young professionals and investors. Apartments near Marrickville Metro, Illawarra Road cafés, and transport links to the CBD attract the most competition.
Before listing, understand who your likely buyers are—first-home buyers, downsizers, or investors—and what they value most: modern interiors, outdoor space, parking, or low strata levies. Tailoring your marketing and contract details to these expectations can immediately increase buyer appeal.
Our team at CM Lawyers works with Marrickville agents and vendors to structure contracts strategically, balancing legal protection with buyer incentives that boost offers.
Prepare a Legally Sound Contract for Sale
Before you can advertise, NSW law requires that a Contract for Sale of Land be completed. Without it, your agent cannot legally list your apartment.
Your contract must include:
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Current title search and strata plan
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Zoning certificate (s10.7) from Inner West Council
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Sewer and drainage diagram
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Strata by-laws and management statement
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Section 184 certificate showing levies, insurances, and arrears
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Details of special levies or capital works plans
At CM Lawyers, we ensure your contract is watertight and compliant, reducing risk of disputes or buyer withdrawals. Having this documentation ready early signals professionalism and trustworthiness—two factors that directly influence buyer confidence and final price.
Get Your Strata Records in Order
Buyers of strata apartments want transparency. A strata records inspection can make or break their decision, so make sure your building’s records are up-to-date.
Check that:
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All levies and fees are paid.
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No pending building defect or legal disputes exist.
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The Owners Corporation has adequate insurance coverage.
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Meeting minutes show good maintenance and financial management.
We work directly with strata managers to ensure your Section 184 Certificate reflects a stable and well-run scheme—something that reassures buyers and adds value.
Make Smart Pre-Sale Improvements
Small upgrades can deliver major returns. In strata apartments, improvements should focus on what’s visible to buyers and what’s permitted by by-laws.
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Refresh paintwork with neutral, modern colours.
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Update lighting and fixtures to brighten interiors.
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Declutter and stage the apartment to emphasise space.
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Ensure balconies and common entry points are spotless.
For any upgrades that may affect common property—like flooring or air-conditioning—confirm they comply with strata by-laws before proceeding. Our lawyers can review by-laws and advise if approval from the Owners Corporation is required.
Understand Your Disclosure Obligations
Under the Conveyancing Act 1919 (NSW), strata sellers must disclose:
- Any unpaid levies or special levies planned.
- Known building defects or legal proceedings.
- By-law restrictions affecting renovations, pets, or parking.
- Insurance and financial status of the Owners Corporation.
Failure to disclose these properly can allow a buyer to rescind the contract—costing you the sale and potentially exposing you to damages. CM Lawyers ensures your disclosures are complete and compliant, protecting your sale from challenges.
Price Strategically
Overpricing can alienate buyers; underpricing risks leaving money on the table. Your agent will suggest a range based on recent sales, but your lawyer ensures your contract terms and conditions support your price point.
Flexible settlements, clear inclusions, and upfront disclosure all contribute to buyer trust—often translating into higher offers. In Marrickville’s fast-moving apartment market, the goal is to attract multiple qualified buyers and let competition drive up the price.
Time Your Sale Wisely
Strata apartments tend to perform best when demand from first-home buyers and investors peaks—typically in spring and early autumn. Listing when interest rates are stable and auction clearance rates are high can add tens of thousands to your result.
We coordinate settlement timing to suit your financial needs, ensuring your sale and any onward purchase align seamlessly.
Avoid Legal Pitfalls That Can Reduce Your Sale Price
Even small legal missteps can cost sellers dearly. Common issues include:
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Out-of-date by-laws or missing Section 184 certificates.
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Unapproved renovations affecting common property.
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Special levies not disclosed before exchange.
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Mortgage discharge delays causing settlement penalties.
By engaging CM Lawyers early, these risks are identified and resolved long before they affect buyer confidence or price negotiations.
Coordinate Seamlessly Between Agent, Strata Manager & Lawyer
Selling a strata apartment requires strong communication between all parties. Your property lawyer ensures documents flow smoothly between the agent, lender, and strata manager, keeping the process on schedule.
Our team at CM Lawyers liaises with every stakeholder, ensuring your sale progresses efficiently while meeting every legal deadline. This reduces the likelihood of costly delays that could weaken your negotiating position.
Pre-Settlement Checks and Final Steps
As settlement approaches, your lawyer will:
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Confirm your mortgage discharge authority with your bank.
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Check that all levies and fees are paid.
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Calculate council and water adjustments.
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Verify that settlement figures are correct.
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Complete the transfer electronically via PEXA for fast and secure payment.
A flawless settlement process leaves a lasting impression on the buyer and their solicitor—helping preserve goodwill and reputation for future property transactions.
Why Legal Preparation Directly Increases Your Sale Price
Buyers pay more when they feel confident. A well-prepared legal file signals professionalism and trust. At CM Lawyers, we prepare your sale so thoroughly that buyers and their solicitors have fewer reasons to delay or negotiate down the price.
Our clients consistently achieve faster sales, fewer fall-throughs, and higher prices because every legal element—from compliance to documentation—is handled proactively.
Why Marrickville Apartment Owners Choose CM Lawyers
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Local Expertise: We understand Marrickville’s diverse strata landscape.
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30+ Years Experience: Trusted by Sydney homeowners for over three decades.
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Fixed-Fee Transparency: Clear costs, no hidden extras.
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Full Legal Protection: From contract drafting to final settlement.
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Personal Guidance: We keep you informed every step of the way.
When you sell with CM Lawyers, you don’t just get conveyancing—you get a legal strategy that maximises value and minimises risk.
Final Word: Sell Smart, Sell Secure, Sell with CM Lawyers
Selling a strata apartment in Marrickville is about more than marketing—it’s about preparation, compliance, and expert legal guidance. By getting your contract right, disclosing accurately, and coordinating efficiently, you can achieve the best possible sale price without stress or setbacks.
At CM Lawyers, our experienced strata and property lawyers ensure every legal detail is managed with precision—so you can move forward confidently and profitably.
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