April Strauss has achieved $1.95 million for a two-bedroom apartment on Carrington Road, Randwick – $135,000 above the suburb’s typical high-end of $1.815 million.
The result came through an unconventional strategy that allowed a prospective buyer to rent the apartment first, building emotional attachment over one and a half months before committing to purchase.
The two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment with one car space was marketed through realestate.com.au, domain.com.au and social media over 89 days, generating two offers.
Rent-first strategy creates emotional connection
The price guide for this near-new apartment was above Randwick’s typical high-end for two-bedroom apartments, which limited the initial buyer pool.
When the eventual purchaser expressed interest but wasn’t ready to commit, April persuaded the vendor to accept a rental arrangement.
“The buyer had already been renting the apartment while her nearby family home was under repair,” April said.
“During that time, she grew to feel secure and comfortable in the space, but she hesitated to buy it. Her attachment to her long-time family home ran deep, filled with memories that were hard to let go.”
The buyer had experienced two significant personal challenges during the year, making the decision about where to live next deeply emotional rather than purely practical.
“I didn’t push her to buy at all,” April said.
“I believed that the longer she stayed in the apartment, the more she would come to love it.”
Competing interest drives decision
While the tenant considered her options, April continued showing the apartment to other potential buyers. When another buyer expressed serious interest, the dynamic shifted.
“When she learned that another buyer was interested, everything changed,” April said.
“With the support of her children, she made the decision to purchase the apartment immediately, choosing the home that had quietly become her sanctuary.”
The property’s design suited downsizers, offering level access from the street and lift access to all floors, including the car park. It has a large courtyard and serene ocean views, creating the perfect blend of comfort, security, privacy and coastal living.
The tenant secured the property through private treaty on 21 November 2025.
“The vendor appreciated that I secured the best possible price for the property,” April said.
“My rent-first, buy-later strategy proved highly successful, ensuring both the vendor and the buyer achieved a positive outcome.”
About the agent
April Strauss, a dedicated property partner at The Agency Eastern Suburbs, prioritises her clients’ interests and aims for results above market value. Her attention to client needs, sale details, negotiation skills, and professionalism ensure optimal outcomes, earning trust and recommendations. A local with extensive area knowledge and a broad network of buyers, including in Asia, she speaks English, Mandarin, and Cantonese, bridging eastern and western clients for seamless service. For an agent who exceeds expectations, choose April Strauss. Visit April’s website or call April on +61 414 690 218.
