Should You Buy or Sell First? How to Navigate Both at the Same Time

by Donald Wagnon

Should You Buy or Sell First? How to Navigate Both at the Same Time

Buying and selling a home at the same time can feel like trying to stand in two places at once. It’s exciting — but it can also be a little overwhelming. For many SouthCoast homeowners, this is one of the biggest real estate decisions they’ll ever make. The good news? With the right strategy, it’s absolutely doable.

Whether you live in New Bedford, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, or Fall River, understanding your options can help you make confident, informed choices.

✨ Option 1: Sell First, Then Buy

Selling your current home before buying your next one is the most common approach.

Pros:

✅ You know exactly how much equity you have to work with.
🏦 Stronger financial position when making an offer.
🧹 Less pressure carrying two mortgages at once.

Cons:

🧳 You may need temporary housing between closings.
⏳ If your dream home hits the market fast, timing can be tricky.

🏡 Option 2: Buy First, Then Sell

This can work well if you have the financial flexibility or want to move without the pressure of selling right away.

Pros:

🕓 No rushed timeline to find the perfect home.
🛋️ Move at your own pace.
📈 If your home is in a strong market, selling afterward can still work in your favor.

Cons:

💸 Carrying two mortgages (even temporarily) can be stressful.
🏦 May require bridge financing or tapping into equity upfront.

👉 Tip: If you’re buying first, talk to your lender early about financing options like a bridge loan or HELOC.

🤝 Option 3: Coordinate a Contingent Offer

A contingent offer means you agree to buy your next home only if your current one sells. This is a great strategy in certain market conditions.

Pros:

🧭 Less financial risk.
💵 Keeps your timeline more controlled.

Cons:

🏡 Your offer may not be as strong in a competitive market.
⏰ Some sellers prefer non-contingent buyers.

👉 Tip: Working with a Realtor who can negotiate strong terms makes a big difference here.

🧭 How to Decide What’s Best for You

The best option depends on your:

Financial flexibility 💰
Desired timeline ⏳
Current market conditions in your neighborhood 🏘️

As your local Realtor, my job is to help you build a strategy that’s realistic, stress-reducing, and protects your bottom line. Every situation is different, which is why personalized guidance matters.

📲 Let’s Make Your Next Move Simple

If you’re ready to make a move but unsure whether to buy or sell first, let’s chat. I’ll walk you through your options, help you understand what’s happening in the New Bedford real estate market, and create a clear plan that works for you.

👉 Visit WagnonRealEstate.com to schedule your consultation.