Blog > Should You Sell Before You Buy? Pros and Cons Explained
If you own a home and want to move, you're probably asking the classic question: "Should I sell my current home before buying the next one?" The answer depends on your finances, timeline, and risk tolerance.
✅ The Pros of Selling First
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More Buying Power: You’ll have cash in hand and a better debt-to-income ratio, making your next offer stronger.
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No Double Payments: Avoid juggling two mortgages, property taxes, and utility bills.
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Less Stress During Negotiations: You'll feel more empowered negotiating on your next purchase without needing a contingency clause.
❌ The Cons of Selling First
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Temporary Housing May Be Needed: You may need to rent or stay with family if you don’t find your next home quickly.
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Feeling Pressured: With your old home sold, there’s urgency to buy, which can lead to rushed decisions.
What About Buying First?
It can work if:
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You qualify for a new mortgage while still owning your current home.
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You have enough savings for a down payment without selling.
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You’re buying in a slow market with plenty of inventory.
At the Southern Homes Team, we often help clients navigate buy/sell simultaneously using bridge loans, home sale contingencies, and creative timelines. It’s all about planning — and we’ve done this hundreds of times.
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Tracy Mathis
Broker Associate | License ID: 995680747
Broker Associate License ID: 995680747