Should You Sell Your Home Before Buying a New One?

Introduction

If you're planning to move house, you’re probably wrestling with a big decision: Should you sell your current home before buying a new one?

At My Own Move, this is one of the most common dilemmas we hear from homeowners. While both approaches have pros and cons, the right answer depends on your finances, goals, and tolerance for risk.

In this guide, we’ll break it all down for you—so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

The Pros of Selling First

1. You Know Exactly How Much You Can Afford

Selling first means you’ll know your budget before house hunting. You won’t be guessing or relying on valuations—you’ll have cash in hand or a precise equity figure.

This can make you a more confident buyer, especially in a competitive market.

2. You Become a Chain-Free Buyer

In today’s UK market, being a chain-free buyer is like having VIP status. Sellers love it because there’s less risk of the sale falling through. You can often negotiate better prices or terms simply because your sale won’t hold up their move.

3. Less Financial Pressure

If you buy before selling, you might end up paying two mortgages—or taking out a bridging loan. Selling first removes this stress and gives you time to consider your next move without rushing.

The Cons of Selling First

1. You May Need Temporary Accommodation

Once your house sells, where do you go? If you haven’t found your next home, you’ll need to rent or stay with family. This can be disruptive, especially with kids or pets in tow.

2. The Market Could Change While You Wait

If the property market rises between your sale and your purchase, you might lose out—meaning you get less house for your money.

3. Pressure to Find a New Home Quickly

Sometimes, people feel pressure to buy quickly after selling, which can lead to poor decisions. Without a place lined up, you might settle for a property that’s not ideal.

The Pros of Buying First

1. You Move Straight From One Home to the Next

Buying first makes the transition smooth. No moving twice. No storage units. No temporary housing.

You find the perfect place, line up your timelines, and move with ease.

2. You Can Take Your Time Selling

Some homeowners buy first, then spend time getting their current property staged and marketed for maximum value. You don’t feel rushed to accept a low offer.

3. You Might Avoid Rising Prices

If the market is climbing quickly, locking in your new home now could save you money—even if your old home takes a bit longer to sell.

The Cons of Buying First

1. You Might Struggle with Financing

Not everyone can afford two mortgages. You’ll need to prove you can cover both to your lender. Or, you might need a bridging loan—which can be expensive and hard to qualify for.

2. You Could Get Stuck in a Chain

If your new purchase depends on selling your current home, any delay or issue can put the whole deal at risk. Sellers might not wait, especially if they get a chain-free offer.

3. You Could Be Forced to Sell for Less

Needing to sell quickly to complete your purchase? That desperation can lead to lower offers. You lose negotiation power.

When Selling First Makes Sense

• You're not in a rush and can afford to wait

• You want a strong buying position

• The market is cooling, and prices may drop

• You need the proceeds from your sale to fund your next purchase

When Buying First Makes Sense

• You’ve found your dream home and can’t risk losing it

• You have the financial means (e.g., savings or approved bridging finance)

• The market is rising, and you want to get ahead

• You’re moving to a specific school catchment or location with limited availability

Tips from My Own Move

• Talk to an advisor early: Understand your borrowing limits and what your current home is realistically worth.

• Get your home market-ready now: Even if you plan to buy first, line up professional photos, valuations, and marketing to avoid delays.

• Consider renting: Selling first and renting short-term gives you freedom to find the perfect home without pressure.

• Use experienced estate agents: At My Own Move, we keep chains moving and minimize risks with strong communication and strategy.

Conclusion

So, should you sell before buying? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your finances, goals, market timing, and personal situation.

Selling first gives you clarity, power, and less stress—but buying first can secure your dream home if the stars align.

At My Own Move, we’re here to help you make the smart move. Whether you decide to sell first or buy first, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

FAQs

Can I put in an offer on a new home before selling my current one?
Yes, but sellers may prefer buyers who have already sold or don’t need to sell. It could weaken your negotiating position.

What is a bridging loan?
It’s a short-term loan that “bridges” the gap between buying and selling, but it can be expensive and risky.

How long do property sales take in the UK?
On average, 8–12 weeks from offer to completion—but delays can happen if you're part of a chain.

Is it risky to rent after selling?
Not necessarily. Renting gives you flexibility, especially in a fast-moving market, and can relieve pressure to buy in a hurry.

Can My Own Move help manage a buy-and-sell transaction?
Absolutely! Our expert team coordinates both sides of the move, helping you stay in control and stress-free throughout the process.

Visit Us: https://myownmove.co.uk/