You’re ready to move… but should you sell your home first or buy your next one first? 

The Decision That Got Real Fast

A few weeks ago, I was helping a couple in the Georgia suburbs who had outgrown their home. They were ready for more space, a bigger yard, and less chaos—but the question that had them frozen was this:

“Do we sell our house first, or buy a new one and hope it all works out?”

It’s a common worry. You don’t want to end up homeless… but you also don’t want two mortgages.

They weren’t alone and if you’re feeling the same, trust me, you’re in good company. After 7+ years in Georgia real estate world, I’ve walked dozens of families through this exact dilemma.

Let’s talk about the pros and cons of both options and how you can protect your finances, your sanity, and your timeline. 

Tip #1: The Pros and Cons of Selling First

Selling your current home first is the most traditional route and for many, it makes a lot of sense. But there are trade-offs.

✅ Pros of Selling First:

• You’ll know exactly how much you’re working with for your next purchase.

• You can avoid carrying two mortgages (aka: way less financial stress).

• Offers from buyers may come in stronger when your next move is already planned.
  

❌ Cons of Selling First:

• You may need temporary housing if you haven’t found your next home yet.

• There’s pressure to buy something quickly—and that’s not always ideal.

• Moving twice (first to a rental, then to your next home) can be exhausting.
  

🧠 Pro Tip: If you go this route, try negotiating a lease-back agreement with your buyer. This lets you stay in your current home for a short time after closing, giving you breathing room to shop for your next one.

Tip #2: What Happens If You Buy First?

On the flip side, buying your new home before selling your current one can feel like a luxury move. But it can work—with a strategy.

✅ Pros of Buying First:

• You can take your time finding the right home.

• You avoid temporary housing or rushed decisions.

• Your move is more seamless - no storage units or hotel living.

❌ Cons of Buying First:

• You may need to qualify for both mortgages at once.

• It’s financially riskier if your current home takes longer to sell.

• You might feel pressure to accept a lower offer just to sell faster.
  

This route tends to work best if you have strong finances or extra equity in your current home. But if you don’t love the idea of juggling two properties, there are ways to ease the burden…

Tip #3: Want to Buy Before You Sell? Consider a Cash Offer Solution

This is the part that most folks don’t know about but it could be a game-changer.

What if you could unlock the equity in your home now... without waiting to sell it the traditional way?

That’s where programs like Green Portal Offers come in. Here’s how it works:

1. You request a cash offer for your current home.

2. You use that cash to buy your next home without contingencies or stress.

3. Once you're settled, the old home gets listed or sold directly.
   

No juggling timelines. No double mortgages. And no scrambling to move out before you’re ready.

This option is especially helpful in fast-moving markets like Georgia, where the right home can get snapped up before you’ve even scheduled a showing. With the power of a cash offer in hand, you can compete like a boss. 💪

👉 Explore Green Portal Offers here

So… Which Should You Do First?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on:

• Your financial comfort zone

• Your loan approval situation

• Your timeline and flexibility

• The pace of the market in your neighborhood

But here’s the good news: There are real strategies to make both paths easier.

Final Thoughts

Moving is a big decision. But it doesn’t have to be a stressful one.

Whether you decide to sell first, buy first, or go the cash offer route—I’ve got your back. After over 7 years of helping families buy, sell, and move all around Georgia, I’ve seen it all, and I’ll walk you through it like we’re friends grabbing coffee.

Before you make your next move, take a few minutes to check out The Ultimate Guide to Buying or Selling Real Estate. It’s packed with tips and steps to help you make smart, confident decisions at every stage.

👉 Download the Guide here

And as always, feel free to reach out with any questions. I’m just a message away.