🏡 Buy First or Sell First? What’s the Right Move for You?
It’s one of the questions we hear time and time again, “Should I sell my home first or find somewhere to buy before putting mine on the market?”
To help you make a confident decision, here’s a friendly guide to the pros and cons of each option.
The truth is, there’s no single right answer. Every move is different, and the best approach depends on your finances, the current market and, most importantly, what feels right for you.
Selling First: Clarity and Confidence
For many homeowners, selling first offers a sense of certainty.
✔️ You’ll know your exact budget - Once you’ve agreed a sale, you’ll have a clear idea of what you can comfortably spend on your next home - no guesswork or stretching too far.
✔️ Less financial pressure - You won’t need to cover two mortgages, arrange temporary finance or worry about property chains behind you.
✔️ Stronger negotiating position - With your sale secured, sellers see you as a proceedable buyer, which can give you an edge when negotiating on your next purchase.
Things to keep in mind: If your onward purchase takes time, you may need temporary accommodation. It’s not ideal, but many clients tell us it’s a small price to pay for less pressure overall. And in some situations, options like leasebacks can keep things simple.
Buying First: A Smoother Move with Less Disruption
Buying first can be a great choice for those who want a more seamless moving experience.
✔️ Avoid the double move - No temporary rentals, no storage, and no squeezing everything into family spare rooms. You move straight into your new home when you’re ready.
✔️ Time to find “the one” - You can take your time without the pressure of having already sold your home.
✔️ Avoid missing out - If the perfect house appears before you’ve put yours on the market, buying first lets you secure it confidently.
Things to consider: You’ll need to be comfortable covering the financial overlap if your home hasn’t yet sold.
Our in-house mortgage team can guide you through your options and explore the safest approach for your circumstances.
How to Decide What’s Best for You
If you’re still feeling unsure, here are a few points to help you decide:
🔍 Review your financial position - Would selling first give you peace of mind, or do you have the flexibility to buy before selling?
📊 Consider the current market - In a busy seller’s market, selling first can put you in a strong position. In a slower market, buying first can work well, as you’re less likely to be rushed and more properties tend to be available.
🛟 Have a backup plan - Temporary accommodation, leasebacks or short-term finance solutions are all options that can smooth the process if timescales don’t line up perfectly.
We’re Here to Help Every Step of the Way
Whether you choose to buy first or sell first, you don’t have to make the decision alone. Our team is here to offer honest, practical advice based on your circumstances.
And if you're not quite ready to move yet, we can get you Market Ready, so everything is lined up for when the right home appears.
đź“… Click here to book your appointment for expert guidance and an up-to-date valuation.
We care about property, we care about you.