Downsizing
Should I Buy Before I Sell?
There are really only four ways to sequence a move. Each one trades money for certainty in a different way.
Almost every established homeowner faces this question, and the answer depends on how much certainty you want to buy with your equity.
The four common paths
- Sell first, then buy — strongest negotiating position, but you may need an interim place to live
- Buy first, then sell — most comfortable move, requires carrying two properties briefly
- Sell with a leaseback — you stay in your home after closing while you find the next one
- Sell and rent for a season — best when you're moving to an unfamiliar area and want to try it first
How Fred helps you choose
The right path depends on your equity position, how distinctive your next property is, and how tolerant you are of moving twice. Waterfront and acreage buyers often need to be ready to move quickly when the right property surfaces, which pushes toward selling first or securing financing in advance.
Your lender and CPA should weigh in on the financial mechanics. Fred's role is to make the real estate sequencing clear and to coordinate the two transactions so they don't collide.
This article is general education, not legal, tax, insurance, financial or engineering advice. Please confirm details with qualified professionals and the appropriate local authorities before making a decision.