Strata Sales: What's Holding Most Owners Back (And How to Get Unstuck)

Across Sydney, hundreds of ageing apartment buildings sit on valuable land — perfectly positioned for redevelopment.

Yet many of these buildings never progress to a collective sale, even when the financial upside is obvious.

So what's stopping people? Why do so many owners hesitate — and how can these roadblocks be overcome?

Let's break down the common barriers — and how Konsensus helps buildings move forward confidently and fairly.

1. Fear of Change and Emotional Attachment

For many owner-occupiers, an apartment isn't just an asset — it's home. The idea of selling and relocating can stir up real anxiety, especially for long-term residents or retirees.

This emotional connection is completely natural. But sometimes it clouds decision-making, causing owners to dismiss collective sale opportunities without fully understanding them.

How Konsensus helps:

• We emphasise that exploring doesn't mean committing.
• We show what's possible with the uplifted value — better lifestyle options, financial security, or a chance to downsize with surplus funds.
• We share real-life stories of owners who've successfully transitioned after a collective sale.
• Our role isn't to pressure — it's to provide clear information, support, and space to think.

2. Misinformation About the Process

Many owners aren't aware that under NSW law, a collective sale can proceed with 75% owner support (by unit entitlement) — not 100%. Others fear they'll be "forced out immediately" or worry about unfair valuations.

The reality? The process is tightly regulated under the Strata Schemes Development Act 2015 to protect all owners, including minority voices.

How Konsensus helps:

• We provide clear, easy-to-read resources about the legal process.
• We engage independent valuers (not agents) early, ensuring fair, unbiased assessments.
• We recommend specialist strata lawyers to guide owners through every step.
• No surprises. No hidden agendas. Just clear, transparent advice.

3. One or Two Vocal Opponents

Every building has its personalities. Sometimes, just one or two loud voices can derail meaningful discussions — even if the majority are interested. These voices often come from fear, misunderstanding, or a desire for control.

How Konsensus helps:

• We use formal, structured communication (not informal side conversations).
• We keep discussions factual — zoning, valuations, uplift potential — rather than emotional.
• We act as a neutral, independent guide — ensuring everyone's voice is heard respectfully.
• When appropriate, we can also work alongside trusted real estate agents later in the process to attract competitive offers — but only once owners are ready and empowered.

4. Lack of Leadership on the Committee

Even if a building is a strong candidate for a collective sale, nothing moves without someone leading the charge. Strata committees are made up of volunteers — often with limited time, energy, or clarity on where to start.

How Konsensus helps:

• We guide committees through every stage, step-by-step.
• We run no-obligation info sessions and provide early feasibility assessments (without agents).
• When it's time to engage the market, we can coordinate trusted agents to help — but Konsensus always stays the owner's advocate.
• Early momentum is everything — and we're here to make it easier.

5. 'It's Too Hard' Mentality

Let's be honest — strata decisions can feel exhausting. If you're already chasing quotes for gutter repairs, fighting over parking, and reviewing by-laws, a collective sale might sound like 'one more thing.'

But the reality? Handled properly, the process is structured, manageable, and professionally supported.

How Konsensus helps:

• We break the journey into clear stages: Awareness → Feasibility → Consensus → Sale.
• We manage project timelines, communications, and negotiations — so owners aren't burdened.
• We partner (when needed) with agents, legal teams, and valuers — ensuring the right experts are engaged at the right time, without owners losing control.
• You don't have to do it all. You just have to start the conversation.

Why It's Worth It

It's natural to feel cautious. But staying still can sometimes be riskier than moving forward. Buildings age. Levies rise. Markets shift. Development zoning tightens.

Collective sales allow owners to:

• Exit before major maintenance costs hit
• Access a sale price often 20–35% higher than selling individually
• Avoid the stress, cost, and uncertainty of solo sales

Konsensus exists to make the process simpler, safer, and fairer — every step of the way.

Let's Talk About It

You don't need to decide today. But starting the conversation opens the door to real opportunity.

Konsensus is here to:

• Educate owners
• Support strata committees
• Protect your interests
• Partner with agents when it adds value — but always stay your independent guide

Because at the end of the day, it's your building. Your future. Your choice. Let's explore what's possible — together.