Sell First or Buy First? Navigating Your Next Move
If you're planning to move this year, one of the biggest questions you'll face is whether to sell your current home before buying your next one. There's no one-size-fits-all answer. The best strategy depends on your financial position, local market conditions, and your timeline.
Understanding your financial position
Before making any decisions, start with the numbers. A conversation with a trusted lender can help determine whether you can carry two mortgages at once, or whether you’ll need proceeds from your current home to purchase the next one.
At the same time, I’m happy to meet with you to clarify priorities for your next home—your must-haves and nice-to-haves—so we can align your wish list with a realistic budget and coordinate strategy with your lender.
If you must sell first
When carrying two mortgages isn’t an option, timing is everything. Often your current home needs to close before (or on the same day as) your next purchase. This is where planning and negotiation matter most.
In many cases, listing your home before you start house hunting gives you an advantage. When you find a home you love, an active listing—or, ideally, an accepted offer—shows sellers you’re serious and already in motion. Without that progress, a contingent offer can feel risky to the seller, and they may prefer a non-contingent buyer even at a similar price.
In competitive markets, a non-contingent offer often wins. If homes are moving quickly, getting your home under contract first can make the difference between landing the right next home and missing out.
If you can buy first
If you have the flexibility to purchase before selling, you’ll have more breathing room. You can focus on finding the right home without the pressure of a pending sale, and you can make stronger, non-contingent offers that sellers prefer.
The trade-off is the possibility of carrying two properties for a period of time—two mortgage payments, plus insurance, utilities, and maintenance—until your current home sells.
The risk of selling too soon
If you sell and close before you find your next home, you may face a gap that requires temporary housing, moving twice, or making a rushed decision under time pressure. This is why timing, contract terms, and backup plans matter.
Creating your custom strategy
Every move is unique. The right approach depends on today’s market, your finances, and your timeline. If you’re considering a move this year, let’s talk through your options and build a plan that supports a smooth transition while keeping you in the strongest negotiating position.
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If you’d like to map out a plan for 2026—whether you’re moving, refinancing, or simply want an updated home value—reach out anytime. I’m here as a resource.