How to Buy a Home When You Still Have One to Sell: A Step-by-Step Guide

Buying and selling a home at the same time can feel overwhelming — but with the right plan, you can do it smoothly. Realtor Katie Roberts explains how Ohio homeowners can successfully juggle both transactions.

For many Ohio homeowners, buying a new house while selling their current one at the same time feels like walking a tightrope.

You're caught between two challenges: avoiding double mortgage payments and ensuring you've found the right new home before selling your current one.

But don't worry — with proper planning and guidance, you can navigate this successfully.

Here's how Katie Roberts, a seasoned Realtor serving Centerville, Dayton, and surrounding areas, helps clients coordinate both transactions smoothly.


Step 1: Know Your Options

While every situation is unique, here are the main approaches:

  • Selling first, then buying: The financially conservative choice, though temporary housing may be needed.
  • Buying first, then selling: More flexibility in house hunting, but requires bridge loan or dual mortgage qualification.
  • Coordinating a same-day close: Complex but achievable with expert agent coordination.

Katie guides each client to the ideal strategy based on their financial situation, timeline, and market conditions.


Step 2: Get Pre-Approved (and Know Your Numbers)

Before house hunting, make sure to:

  • Get pre-approved for your next mortgage
  • Calculate your current home equity
  • Determine if you qualify to carry two mortgages temporarily

Katie connects her clients with trusted local lenders who outline all financing options, from bridge loans to home sale contingencies.


Step 3: Prepare Your Current Home for Sale

To ensure a swift timeline, be ready to list fast by:

  • Decluttering and deep-cleaning
  • Making small repairs or upgrades
  • Gathering important documents (like warranties or utility costs)

Katie provides customized prep checklists and market insights to help sellers maximize their home's appeal.


Step 4: Shop for Your Next Home Smartly

Keep these guidelines in mind during your search:

  • Focus on homes that match both your needs and your timeline
  • Look for flexible sellers open to extended closing periods
  • Resist making hasty decisions to meet sale deadlines

Katie helps buyers maintain focus and competitiveness while managing both transactions.


Step 5: Work With a Pro Who Can Coordinate Both Sides

Managing concurrent transactions requires:

  • Synchronizing negotiations, timelines, and contingencies
  • Coordinating inspections, appraisals, and repairs for both properties
  • Maintaining clear communication with lenders, title companies, and agents

Katie's expertise in handling back-to-back deals provides clients a significant advantage — minimizing surprises and ensuring smooth transitions.


Ready to Tackle a Move? Let's Build a Custom Plan.

Coordinating a sale and purchase doesn't have to be overwhelming — not when you have the right guide by your side.

Reach out to Katie Roberts today for a personalized move strategy. She'll help you plan timelines, understand your options, and synchronize both transactions seamlessly.

Let's make your next chapter exciting, smooth, and stress-free.