Miranda Woman Shatters Local Myth: First Tenant Ever to Get 100% Bond Back Without a Shouting Match

Finn Seabrook | Local Correspondent | Sutherland Shire Gazette

6 February 2025

In a groundbreaking feat that has sent shockwaves through rental communities across the Sutherland Shire, Miranda local Amy Cartwright has achieved what was once thought impossible: securing her full tenancy bond refund without having to unleash her inner Hulk on a property manager.

The 34-year-old teacher, who has just moved out of her two-bedroom unit, has now been officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the first tenant in the Shire’s history to get 100% of her bond back without a heated argument, a six-week wait, or the dreaded "mysterious cleaning fee."

"I still can’t believe it," said Amy, holding the framed Guinness certificate, which now takes pride of place above her impeccably vacuumed rental carpets.

"I was fully prepared for a fight. I had rehearsed my 'firm but polite' tone, researched tenancy laws, and even packed snacks for a potential three-hour office sit-in. But they just… gave it back. No drama, no dodgy excuses, nothing."

The record-breaking moment occurred when Amy handed over her keys and did a final walkthrough with the property manager. “I thought they’d find something—a scuff, a speck of dust, maybe claim the oven wasn’t 'sparkling enough,’” she said. “But instead, they just smiled and said, ‘Looks good. We’ll process the bond refund today.’ I almost fainted.”

Guinness officials confirmed the achievement after rigorously verifying Amy’s claim, including interviews with witnesses and an inspection of the sparklingly clean unit.

“This sets a new benchmark for tenant-landlord relations,” said a Guinness Book of World Record spokesperson. “We may even create a new category: Most Cooperative Property Manager.”

Local tenants are baffled, with many calling Amy’s success “a miracle.” One Caringbah renter, Jeff, remarked, “I lost $200 last year because there was a fingerprint on a window. Amy’s a hero.”

However, not everyone is celebrating. The Shire’s property managers are reportedly “shaken” by the event. An anonymous insider revealed: “It’s like she cracked the code. If this catches on, we’ll have tenants expecting their full bonds back. Chaos!”

Amy’s next goal? Writing a book titled “How to Get Your Bond Back (Without Losing Your Mind).” Preorders are already flying off the virtual shelves.