Selling Tips
Author:
Onsite Real Estate
Date:
07/06/25

How to Time Your Sale When You’re Also Buying

Buying and selling a home at the same time can feel like a high-stakes balancing act—but with the right strategy, it’s completely doable. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or relocating within Pierce County, careful planning can help you avoid double moves, extra costs, or housing gaps. At Onsite Real Estate Group, we help clients coordinate both sides of the transaction with confidence. Here’s how to make the timing work in your favor.

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Understand Your Market Conditions

Timing depends heavily on whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market. Your agent can help assess the current landscape and recommend the right sequence based on your priorities.

  • In a seller’s market, your current home may sell quickly—so you’ll need a plan for temporary housing if your next home isn’t secured.
  • In a buyer’s market, finding your next home may take longer, but you’ll have more flexibility on the sale side.
  • Use Contingencies Strategically

    One of the most common tools is a contingent offer, which allows you to buy a new home only if your current one sells. While not always ideal for sellers, it can give you the buffer you need. You can also accept an offer on your current home contingent on finding a replacement property, giving you some breathing room on your next move.

    Consider a Rent-Back Agreement

    If your home sells before you’ve closed on your new one, a rent-back lets you stay in your home for a short period after closing (usually 30–60 days). This gives you more time to complete your purchase without having to move twice. It’s a popular tool in competitive markets like Bonney Lake and Puyallup.

    Explore Bridge Loans or HELOCs

    If you need access to your current home’s equity to fund your next down payment, a bridge loan or HELOC (home equity line of credit) might be a solution. These options help you buy first, then sell—reducing stress but adding short-term financial complexity. It’s important to work with a lender experienced in simultaneous transactions.

    Have a Backup Plan

    Even with the best timing, surprises happen—buyers back out, closings get delayed, or homes don’t pass inspection. Make sure you’ve considered backup options like:

  • Short-term rentals
  • Storage units
  • Staying with friends or family
  • Flexible moving companies that offer temporary holding
    • 71% of homeowners say the process of buying and selling at the same time was “more stressful than expected”
    • 43% of sellers in 2024 used a rent-back to ease the transition
    • Homes listed with proper timing strategies sold 19% faster on average

    Need Help Coordinating Your Move?

    At Onsite Real Estate Group, we specialize in helping clients navigate both sides of the deal—from prepping your home for sale to finding your next dream space. Let us help you time it right and make the move with confidence.

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