🏡 Move-Up Strategies to “Buy First Then Sell”

How to Move Up to Your Next Home with Ease – Week 5

This is the final post in my 5-part series on how to move up to your next home with as little stress as possible. Whether it’s your first time moving up or you’ve done it before, this guide has been designed to make the process smoother, smarter, and easier.

For many homeowners, the dream scenario is buying your new home first and then selling your current one. It gives you time to find the right fit without feeling rushed. But here’s the catch—it’s not always easy to do financially. That’s why it’s so important to know your options and plan ahead.

💳 Step 1: Meet with Your Lender

Before you start scrolling through listings or touring open houses, talk to your lender. They’ll let you know if you’re approved to buy first or if you’ll need to sell first. This decision comes down to your debt-to-income ratio and overall financial picture.

👉 If your lender says you need to sell first, go back to last week’s article on Move-Up Strategies to Sell First Then Buy.
👉 If you’re approved to buy first—keep reading!

💰 Step 2: Figure Out Your Down Payment

Where will the cash come from? Here are a few options:

• Home Equity Loan / HELOC: Tap into the equity you’ve built in your current home.
• Cash-Out Refinance: Refinance your current mortgage and use the cash for your new purchase.
• Borrow from Yourself: Use savings or investments with the help of your financial advisor.
• Bridge Loan: A short-term option offered by some lenders, though usually the most expensive.

⚠️ Every situation is different, so lean on your lender (and me!) to help you choose the right option for your long- and short-term financial goals.

🗓️ Step 3: Timing It Right

Buying before selling means you may own two homes at once for a short period of time. That’s why timing is everything:

• Study the local market to know when homes typically sell fastest.
• Avoid slow seasons (holidays, late summer) if possible.
• Prep your current home well in advance so you can list it quickly once you’re under contract on the new one.

📦 Step 4: Prep Your Current Home to Sell

Even though you’re focused on your new home, don’t forget about the one you’re leaving. Start now: declutter, make repairs, and get it market-ready. That way, when the time comes, you can list quickly and sell faster—limiting the time you’re juggling two mortgages.

🔑 The Big Takeaway

Buying first and selling later can work beautifully if you:

• Plan ahead 🗓️
• Know your financial limits 💵
• Have your home ready to sell 🏡
• Work closely with your lender and your agent 🤝

This wraps up my How to Move Up to Your Next Home with Ease series. My goal has been to show you that with the right strategies, moving up doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

If you’re thinking about making a move—whether that’s in 6 months or 2 years—let’s talk. Planning early is the key to making your next move as stress-free (and profitable!) as possible.