By Jason Aussem · Agent Aussem Real Estate · Updated September 27, 2026
Should you sell first or buy first?
There is no single best order for every move. Selling first may clarify what you have available for the next purchase, but you need a place to stay if you have not found the next home. Buying first may give you more time to move, but only works if the financing and overlapping expenses fit your situation. Start by asking your lender whether the next purchase depends on completing your sale.
For a move within Davis or Weber County, or between Utah communities, write down both your preferred dates and the dates you cannot change. Work, a lease ending, moving help and property access can all affect the sequence.
Compare three possible sequences
Sell, then buy
Discuss this if you need the sale proceeds or want to resolve the sale before committing to a purchase. Include temporary housing, storage and a possible second move in the plan. A completed sale does not guarantee the next loan or that the right home will be available.
Buy, then sell
Ask your lender to evaluate whether you can purchase while still owning your current home. Decide how long you could handle overlapping costs and what you would do if your home took longer to sell. Do not assume expected equity is cash available for a down payment.
Coordinate a sale and purchase
Discuss whether an offer dependent on your sale, coordinated dates or a separately negotiated occupancy arrangement could fit. Each option depends on the other parties, the signed agreements and any lender requirements. Build a backup plan before relying on the dates lining up.
Put the money questions on one page
- What might remain from the sale after the mortgage payoff, selling costs and agreed credits? Ask for a written estimate with its assumptions.
- How much cash will the next purchase require, and when must it be available? Review your lender’s estimated cash to close.
- What is a comfortable total monthly housing cost, including applicable taxes, insurance and HOA costs?
- What will you keep available for moving, temporary housing and unexpected expenses?
The CFPB Loan Estimate explainer can help you review a lender’s payment and cash-to-close figures. Discuss financing and the source of purchase funds directly with your lender; a sale-price estimate is not loan approval.
Keep these dates separate
Ask your agent and title or escrow team to confirm the settlement deadline, completion of closing, when sale funds can be used and when possession is delivered. Signing paperwork is not a reason to assume you can collect keys or use the proceeds immediately. Review the actual contracts and addenda before committing to movers or housing.
Would a cash offer make the move simpler?
It is an option to evaluate using a real offer. Jason can seek cash-offer options from buyers he knows. Compare the actual price, expected net proceeds, fees, conditions, closing requirements and possession date with a traditional listing plan. Neither a cash offer nor a particular price or closing date is guaranteed. The useful question is which verified terms fit your move.
Leave the conversation with a next step
Jason can help organize the real-estate side of both transactions and identify the questions for your lender and title team. Start with your rough timeline and biggest concern. You do not need to put financial statements, account numbers or loan documents in the website form.
Request a free Seller Game PlanIn the request, mention that you are also buying. After your inquiry is saved, you can choose an available free Game Plan time.