Published June 11, 2025
What if I need to sell my house before I can buy?

Navigating the process of selling your current home while buying a new one can feel like a juggling act, but with the right strategy, it can be a smooth transition. Here’s what you need to know if you find yourself in this situation:
1. Understand Your Financial Position:
Before making any moves, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of your financial situation. Determine how much equity you have in your current home and how it will impact your purchasing power for the new home. Consulting with a financial advisor or mortgage broker can provide clarity on what you can afford.
2. Consider a Contingency Offer:
One common approach is to make an offer on a new home contingent upon the sale of your current home. This means your purchase is dependent on successfully selling your existing property. While this can provide peace of mind, be aware that not all sellers are open to contingency offers, especially in a competitive market.
3. Timing is Key:
Coordinating the sale of your current home with the purchase of a new one requires careful timing. Ideally, you want to close on your current home and the new home around the same time to avoid temporary housing. Working with an experienced real estate agent can help you navigate these timelines effectively.
4. Financing Options:
If you find your dream home but haven't sold your current one yet, a bridge loan might be an option. This short-term loan can provide the funds needed to purchase the new home while you wait for your current home to sell. However, it's important to understand the terms and interest rates associated with bridge loans. A recast option might also work well in this scenario. Working with a good lender partner will help you navigate this in a strategic way for your personal needs. Ask us about the options our lender partner, Envoy offer to solve this pain point. There are several options that they offer to help eliminate the need for a contingent offer.
5. Prepare Your Home for Sale:
To expedite the sale of your current home, ensure it's market-ready. This includes decluttering, making necessary repairs, and possibly staging it to appeal to potential buyers. A well-presented home can attract more interest and lead to a quicker sale.
6. Work with a Skilled Real Estate Agent:
Having a knowledgeable real estate agent by your side can make all the difference. They can help you price your home correctly, market it effectively, and negotiate the best terms for both selling and buying. At Dauby Real Estate, we're here to guide you through each step of the process. When you're trying to both sell a home and buy a home, and coordinate it all to go smoothly on a certain timeline, it's crucial to have an experienced real estate professional in your corner.
If you have more questions or need personalized advice, feel free to reach out to us at 812-777-4611. We're committed to helping you make this transition as seamless as possible!