Should You Buy Before You Sell? How to Navigate the Market With Confidence

Buying and selling a home at the same time can feel like solving a puzzle with moving pieces. Many Cincinnati homeowners face the same question: Should I buy my next home before selling my current one, or sell first and then buy?

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your finances, timing, and even the neighborhood you’re moving to all play a role. Let’s explore the advantages and drawbacks of both approaches—and strategies to make the transition smoother.

The Case for Buying Before You Sell

• Time to Shop Around: When you’re not pressured to sell first, you can take your time finding the right home, whether it’s a family-friendly spot in Mason or a trendy condo in Over-the-Rhine.

• Simpler Move: Buying first means you avoid renting in between or moving twice.

• Competitive Edge: Sellers may favor offers without home-sale contingencies, especially in desirable neighborhoods like Hyde Park or Oakley.

The Downsides

• Carrying Two Mortgages: Even for a short time, this can be stressful and financially risky.

• Tapping Into Savings: Without proceeds from your current home, you might need bridge loans or a home equity line of credit for your down payment.

• Market Uncertainty: If your current home takes longer to sell, the overlap could cost you.

The Case for Selling Before You Buy

• Financial Security: You’ll know exactly how much equity you’re working with.

• No Double Payments: One mortgage at a time means less financial risk.

• Clearer Negotiations: Buyers see you as serious and ready to close.

But selling first isn’t always ideal. You may need temporary housing, extra storage, or flexibility with timelines—none of which are fun.

Smart Strategies to Balance Both

• Bridge Loans: These short-term loans help cover a down payment while you wait for your old home to sell.

• Rent-Back Agreements: Negotiate with your buyer to stay in your current home for a short time after closing.

• Work With a Local Realtor: In a market like Cincinnati, where conditions vary neighborhood by neighborhood, a local expert can help time your move wisely.

Bottom Line: If you have strong financials, buying first can make sense. But if you’d rather play it safe, selling first reduces risk. Either way, planning with your realtor can keep the process smooth.