Juggling two real estate transactions at once might sound overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. For many homeowners, the question isn’t if they’ll move, but how to buy their next home without the stress of selling first. Managing both sides of the process simultaneously can be tricky, especially when it comes to timing, financing, and finding the right home. But with thoughtful planning and the right support, buying before you sell can be a smart, strategic move that puts you in control.
In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors’ 2024 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, more people are turning to real estate agents for help managing this process—90% of home sellers used an agent, up from 89% the year prior. And as buyers grow bolder in today’s market, many are seeking creative solutions to make their next move easier. One such effective strategy is the Buy Before You Sell program, which allows homeowners to purchase their new home before selling their current one.
Why Buy Before You Sell?
Buying your next home first may sound financially risky, but with the right approach and support, it offers several unique advantages:
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More Control Over Your Move
When you buy first, you’re not racing against the clock. You can move on your own schedule, avoid temporary housing, and prep your old home for sale without having to live through open houses or showings.
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Make a Stronger Offer
One of the biggest perks is the ability to make an offer on a new home without needing to sell your current one first. In competitive markets, this is a huge advantage. HomeLight’s Q1 2025 Lender Insights Report found that 71% of loan officers saw more buyers taking bold steps, like accepting higher rates or skipping contingencies, to win bids. With no home sale contingency, your offer stands out.
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Maximize Your Sale Price
Selling without time pressure means you can list your home at the ideal time, stage it professionally, and attract stronger offers. You won’t feel forced to accept a lower price just to sync up the timing with your next move.
How HomeLight’s Buy Before You Sell Program Helps
For homeowners looking to buy before selling without the financial burden of carrying two mortgages, HomeLight’s Buy Before You Sell Program offers a streamlined solution:
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Unlock Your Home Equity Easily
HomeLight assesses your property and determines how much equity you can tap into through their affiliated lender, HomeLight Home Loans, Inc. A quick property value lookup can also give you an idea of your home's worth before you begin. This access to equity empowers you to start shopping for your next home sooner.
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Buy with Confidence
Once approved, you can make a strong, non-contingent offer, avoiding the delays and risks of contingent contracts. This can be a deciding factor in winning your dream home.
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Sell Your Old Home Stress-Free
After moving into your new home, your current property can be staged and listed while vacant, helping your agent attract top-dollar offers without the hassle of coordinating back-to-back closings.
This program removes much of the financial and logistical stress typically involved in buying before selling, offering a seamless path forward for homeowners ready to make their next move.
Final Thoughts: Making It Work
While 79% of buyers still believe that homeownership is a smart financial investment (according to NAR), executing a buy-before-you-sell strategy can make the experience even more rewarding. Programs like HomeLight’s provide a safety net that allows for confident purchasing and strategic selling.
If you're not sure what to do to sell your house while preparing to purchase your next one, working with a trusted real estate agent and considering buy-before-you-sell programs can provide clarity, convenience, and a better return in the long run.
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