In today’s housing market, buying a new home while selling your current one isn’t just possible — it’s becoming a smart, strategic move. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) 2024 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 74% of buyers financed their home purchase, and 79% believe homeownership is a solid investment.
For homeowners looking to move, the ability to buy first provides breathing room, especially when using tools like the Buy Before You Sell program to bridge the gap.
The Benefits of Buying Before Selling
Purchasing your next home before listing your current one offers key advantages. You gain the flexibility to house hunt without pressure, can submit offers without a sale contingency — which makes you more competitive — and avoid the hassle of moving twice.
And with today’s buyers increasingly open to non-traditional financing methods — including higher-rate loans and unconventional property types — the momentum is shifting toward flexible, buyer-first strategies. HomeLight’s 2025 Lender Insights & Predictions shows that 71% of loan officers have noticed more buyers willing to take financial risks, including accepting higher mortgage rates or leveraging creative loan options to win in competitive markets.
How HomeLight’s Purchase Before You Sell Program Works
HomeLight offers a structured process to help homeowners purchase confidently and sell smoothly. The program includes:
- Unlock Equity From Your Current Home
HomeLight evaluates your property and determines how much equity can be used toward your next purchase through HomeLight Home Loans, Inc. - Buy Your Next Home Without a Contingency
You make a strong, non-contingent offer, improving your chances of getting your dream home while avoiding the need to move twice. - List and Sell Your Current Home Vacant
With your new home secured, your agent can list your now-empty property, making it easier to show and attract higher offers.
This approach allows you to remain in control of both transactions and reduces the financial and logistical pressure of buying and selling simultaneously.
Navigating the Process Smoothly
To make this transition work in your favor:
- Partner with an experienced real estate agent who understands simultaneous transactions and can coordinate both timelines effectively.
- Know your property’s worth by using a free home value estimator. This will give you an idea of how much your home is valued, helping you budget and understand your equity before discussing options with a lender.
- Get pre-approved early to understand your financing options and demonstrate your readiness to buy.
- Stage your current home ahead of time, so it’s ready to list quickly once you’ve moved into the new one.
Final Thoughts
Purchasing your next home before selling your current one can seem like a tricky balancing act. However, with the right strategy and support—buying a new home before selling your current one—it can be a manageable and often more profitable option. By tapping into your home’s equity and eliminating contingencies, you gain flexibility and leverage in a competitive market.