Buy First or Sell First? How to Successfully Coordinate Your Move

Buying and selling a home at the same time can feel overwhelming, like trying to move two puzzle pieces at once. My goal as your Concierge Realtor is to help you coordinate the process so you can make one smooth move without unnecessary stress.

If you’re wondering whether you should buy first or sell first, there are several strategies that can make the process easier. Understanding how each step looks from a seller’s point of view can help you make smart, confident decisions.

Making an Offer Before Your Home is Sold

When you find your next dream home before your current one sells, you may make an offer with a home sale contingency. This means your purchase depends on successfully selling your home first.

From the seller’s side, each stage of your selling process carries a different level of risk. Here’s how those scenarios typically look:

     1. “I’ll sell my home if I can find the right next home.”

          Buyer’s situation: You haven’t listed your home yet but want to make an offer. 

          What the seller hears:
          “Maybe this buyer will buy my home… maybe not.”

          Risk for the seller: ~90%

💡 Tip: This is the hardest type of offer for sellers to accept. Listing your home first shows readiness and motivation

     2. “My home is on the market and I’m looking for a buyer.”

          Buyer’s situation: Your home is listed and showings are happening.

          What the seller hears:
          “If this buyer finds someone for their home, we might be able to move forward.”

          Risk for the seller: ~50%

 💡 Tip: Having your home on the market demonstrates you’re serious and proactive, two things sellers appreciate.

   3. “I’ve accepted an offer on my home.”

          Buyer’s situation: You’re under contract and coordinating timing.

          What the seller hears:
          “This buyer already has a deal in motion — they just need to align dates.”

          Risk for the seller: ~25%

💡 Tip: This situation builds seller confidence. Flexibility with your closing date can make your offer stand out even more.

 4. “We're closing on our home soon.”

          Buyer’s situation: Your sale is nearly complete and funds will soon be available.

          What the seller hears:
          “This buyer’s financing is solid, and their move is ready.”

          Risk for the seller: ~10%

💡 Tip: This is the best-case scenario. Your offer is strong, reliable, and much more appealing to the seller.

So… Should You Buy First or Sell First?

There’s no single right answer. It depends on your timeline, financial comfort, and market conditions.

Consider:

• Market trends: Are homes in your area selling quickly, or taking longer?
• Financial flexibility: Can you buy before selling, or would that stretch your budget?
• Lifestyle preferences: Do you want one seamless move, or can you handle a short-term rental between homes?

Working with a Realtor who understands how to strategically time your sale and purchase can make all the difference in reducing stress and maximizing opportunity.

Final Thoughts

Successfully buying and selling at the same time takes planning, coordination, and communication — but it is possible with the right strategy.

As your Concierge Realtor, I guide clients through every step of the process, helping them make informed decisions that align with both their financial and personal goals. Together, we’ll create a plan that gives you confidence and clarity — whether that means buying first, selling first, or making both happen in perfect harmony.

If you’re thinking about making a move, let’s talk through your options and design a plan that fits your timeline and lifestyle.