Selling your house before buying: What is the best strategy in 2025?

It’s the eternal real estate dilemma—the equivalent of the classic “chicken or the egg” question. If you’re a homeowner thinking about moving, this question is probably keeping you up at night: “Should I sell my current property before buying the new one, or the other way around?” On one hand, the fear of ending up with two mortgages at the same time. On the other, the anxiety of selling too quickly and finding yourself “out on the street” without having secured your dream home.

The truth? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right strategy depends on your risk tolerance, your financial health, and—above all—the current state of your local real estate market. Let’s break down the scenarios to find the one that fits you best.

Scenario A: Buying First (Comfort Above All)

Advantages:

• Smooth transition: You only move once the new home is ready.
• No pressure to buy: You won’t settle for a “default” house just because you’re running out of time.
• Possible renovations: You can paint or renovate before moving in.

Disadvantages:

• Financial burden: If your old home doesn’t sell quickly, you may end up carrying two mortgages plus the costs of two homes (taxes, heating, insurance).
• Sales pressure: You may be tempted to accept a lower offer out of desperation to sell.

Scenario B: Selling First (Financial Peace of Mind)

Advantages:

• Clear budget: You know exactly how much money you have available for your next purchase.
• Stronger negotiating power: As a buyer who has already sold, you come across as serious and reassuring to sellers.
• Zero risk of double mortgage.

Disadvantages:

• Housing gap: If you don’t find a home quickly, you may need to rent an Airbnb, stay with family, or store your furniture (moving twice).
• Buying pressure: The ticking clock of the notary date may push you to buy a property that’s not a perfect fit.

The Hybrid Solution: How to Protect Yourself?

• Offer conditional on the sale of your property: A common way to protect yourself, but it significantly weakens your negotiating position when sellers hold the advantage.
• Occupancy clause: Sell your home but negotiate with the buyer to remain as a tenant for 30 or 60 days while you find something else. Often the miracle solution!
• Coordinating dates: Your broker’s role is to try to align the signing dates at the notary.

Every situation is unique. Before putting up a “For Sale” sign or visiting homes, it’s essential to assess the market value of your current property. This will help determine the strategy with the least risk for you. The brokers at Équipe Bourgon have the tools and expertise to guide you through this important step.