🏡 Should You Sell Before You Buy? A Michigan Homeowner’s Dilemma

Buying and selling a home at the same time can feel like trying to jump from one moving train to another — exciting, but tricky. If you’re a Michigan homeowner thinking about upgrading, downsizing, or relocating, one of the biggest questions you’ll face is this:
Should you sell your current home before you buy your next one?

Let’s break down both sides, with a few local insights to help you make the move confidently.

🔄 Option 1: Sell First — Then Buy

The Pros:

• You Know Exactly What You Have to Spend: Once your home sells, you’ll have a clear picture of your net proceeds and can confidently shop within your true price range.

• Stronger Offer Power: Sellers love clean, non-contingent offers. If your current home is already sold (or at least under contract), your next offer carries more weight — especially in competitive markets like Grand Blanc or Davison.

• Less Financial Pressure: Without two mortgage payments at once, you’ll have breathing room if the next purchase takes time.

The Cons:

• Temporary Housing May Be Needed: You might need to rent or stay with family between closings — not ideal if you’re juggling school schedules or commutes.

• Market Risk: If prices rise or inventory tightens after your sale, your dream home might cost more or be harder to find.

Pro Tip:
Some sellers negotiate a “post-closing occupancy”, allowing them to stay in their home for 30–60 days after closing while they secure the next property. It’s a common win-win strategy here in Genesee County.

🏠 Option 2: Buy First — Then Sell

The Pros:

• No Moving Twice: You can move directly from your current home into the new one, saving time, storage, and sanity.

• More Control Over Timing: You won’t feel rushed to accept the first offer on your current home just to line up closings.

• Ideal for Low-Inventory Markets: When great homes move fast, buying first can ensure you don’t miss out.

The Cons:

• Carrying Two Mortgages (Temporarily): Unless you qualify comfortably for both, this can add short-term financial strain.

• Pressure to Sell Quickly: Once you’ve closed on the new property, you’ll likely want your current home sold fast to ease cash flow.

• Risk of Market Shifts: If your home takes longer to sell than expected, you could be stuck making dual payments longer than planned.

Pro Tip:
Ask your lender (or your Mortgage Superhero) about bridge loans or HELOCs that can help you use your current home’s equity toward your next down payment — even before you sell.

🧭 Finding Your Best Path

Every move is unique. If your current home will sell quickly (as many do in popular Michigan neighborhoods like Warwick Hills, Atlas Township, or Swartz Creek), selling first can be the simpler, safer path.

If you’ve already found your next dream home and have the financial flexibility to carry both for a short period, buying first can mean less stress and more convenience.

Either way, the key is coordination — between your Realtor®, your lender, and your closing timelines.

💡 Final Thought

The right choice depends on your comfort level, financial readiness, and local market conditions.
A strong plan, paired with expert guidance, can help you move seamlessly — without feeling like you’re living out of boxes for months.

Whether you’re selling, buying, or both, let’s talk strategy.
Your next move deserves a smooth transition — and a team that knows how to make it happen right here in Michigan.