Options for Buying AND Selling a House at the Same Time

Not sure what comes first—selling your current home or buying your next one? You’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions I get from homeowners getting ready to make a move.

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best approach depends on your finances, timeline, and comfort level. Some people buy first, some sell first, and others try to line it all up at once. Let’s walk through the three most common strategies so you can better understand your options.

Option 1: Buy First, Sell Second

If you’re able to qualify for your next mortgage while still owning your current home, this route gives you more flexibility and peace of mind. We can begin the house hunt right away, find your next place, and get you closed—before we ever list your current home.

If your equity is tied up in your existing property, a bridge loan could be a helpful tool. It allows you to tap into your home equity upfront so you’re not stuck waiting to sell before making your next move.

This strategy can reduce stress by avoiding temporary housing—but it does require strong financing and the ability to carry two mortgages temporarily.

Option 2: Sell First, Then Buy

This approach flips the order. We list your home, get it under contract, and then find your next home afterward.

In the meantime, you’ll need a short-term solution—whether that’s staying with friends or family, or lining up a short-term rental. It’s a little more transitional, but for many, it’s the most financially secure path forward.

This route eliminates the risk of owning two homes at once and can make your offer more competitive when you’re ready to buy.

Option 3: Prep to Sell, Then Buy with a Contingent Offer

This is the middle-ground strategy—and the one I see work best for most homeowners navigating both sides of the move.

Here’s how it works:
We get your current home photo-ready—decluttering, deep cleaning, making small repairs—and behind the scenes, I prepare all the marketing and paperwork. Then we begin the home search.

When we find the one, we submit a contingent offer, meaning your purchase is dependent on your current home selling. If the seller accepts, we go live with your listing, price it to move, and get it under contract as quickly as possible.

The goal? Two closings on the same day. No storage units. No gap. No second move.

This strategy can require more patience—especially in a competitive market where you’re up against cash or non-contingent buyers—but with the right prep and a strong plan, it can absolutely work.

Choosing the Right Move for You

At the end of the day, it’s all about choosing the strategy that works best for you. Every situation is different, and the key is understanding your options before jumping in. Once you do, the whole process starts to feel a lot more doable—and a lot less stressful.

🎥 Want to dive deeper? Watch the full video here on YouTube