Can I buy and sell at the same time?

Yes, this is something that is done regularly lets look at the Pro’s and Con’s for both options.

Buying Before Selling

  • Pros

    • You have a place to live while home shopping  
    • Less moving expenses
    • Do not need to make a quick decision (living in home)
    • Relaxing home buying experience 
  • Cons

    • Stuck with two mortgage payments 
    • Feel rushed to sell
    • In tight markets, offers with sales contingency are less competitive. 
    •   Lack of cash for down payment 

Tips for – Buying Before Selling

  • Rent out house first

  • use a contingency Clause  

     An investment in knowledge pays the best interest

Selling Before buying

  • Pros

    • You know how much equity you have (you know how much you sold your home for)
    • More cash on hand – Stronger buying position 
    • No risk on 2 mortgages – Saver  
  • Cons

    • Need a temporary place to stay (in limbo)
    • Difficult to find month-to-month (kids, pets, etc..)
    • Moving expense much higher (two moves and storage) 
    • May feel rushed to buy

Tips for – Selling Before buying

  • Temporary housing is your first priority

  • Be ready to buy – know what you want