If you’re a homeowner planning to move, you’ve probably asked yourself a big question:
Should I find my next home first, or sell my current one before I start looking?
It’s a common dilemma — and the truth is, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. What’s right for you depends on your personal goals, finances, and the current Texas real estate market.
That’s where working with an experienced local agent really makes a difference. A trusted agent understands neighborhood trends, market timing, and what’s working for other homeowners in your area right now. They can help you create a strategy that keeps you financially comfortable and confident every step of the way.
That said, in many cases today, selling your current home first can put you in a stronger position. Here’s why that approach often makes sense — and how an agent can guide you through it.
1. You’ll Unlock the Power of Your Home Equity
Selling your current home before buying your next allows you to access the equity you’ve built over time. And for most homeowners, that number is significant.
Recent data from Cotality (formerly CoreLogic) shows the average homeowner is sitting on $302,000 in equity right now. That’s money you can use toward the down payment on your next property — or even to buy your next home outright if your equity is strong enough.
For many Texans, this equity can also help pay off debt, fund renovations, or cover closing costs on the new home. In a market like Texas, where property values have appreciated steadily in recent years, that built-up equity can be a major financial advantage.
2. You’ll Avoid Juggling Two Mortgages
Trying to buy a new home before you sell your current one can lead to a stressful — and expensive — overlap. You could end up paying two mortgages at once, even if it’s just for a few months.
And while that might sound manageable at first, the added costs from utilities, insurance, property taxes, and potential maintenance or repair expenses can add up fast.
That’s why most experts, including Ramsey Solutions, recommend selling first:
“It’s best to sell your old home before buying a new one to avoid unnecessary risks and possible headaches.”
Selling before you buy frees you from the pressure of timing two major transactions at once. You’ll know exactly how much cash you have to work with, and you’ll move forward with less financial stress — something every Texas homeowner can appreciate.
3. You’ll Strengthen Your Offer When You Find Your Next Home
When you’ve already sold your home, your next offer instantly becomes more appealing to sellers. Why? Because your offer won’t need to be contingent on your current home selling.
That means fewer delays, fewer conditions, and less uncertainty for the seller — all things that make your offer stand out in a competitive market.
In Texas real estate, where desirable homes in cities like Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio often attract multiple offers, being a “ready buyer” can be the edge you need to win your dream home.
Your agent can also help position your offer strategically — highlighting your strong financial standing and flexible timeline to make you even more attractive to sellers.
A Possible Tradeoff: Temporary Housing
Of course, selling first isn’t without its challenges. The biggest one? Timing.
If your house sells before you’ve found your next home, you may need a short-term place to stay. That could mean renting for a few months or staying with family or friends while you shop for your next property.
The good news is that a skilled real estate agent can help you plan ahead. They can negotiate terms like post-closing occupancy, where you rent your sold home back from the buyer for a short period. They can also structure flexible closing dates to give you extra breathing room during the transition.
So, What’s Right for You?
Every homeowner’s situation is unique. The best choice depends on your financial comfort level, how much equity you have, and what’s happening in your local market.
If you’re unsure where to start, talk to a trusted Texas real estate agent. They’ll walk you through your equity, market conditions, and timing strategy so you can decide what’s right for you — whether that means selling first or buying first.
In many cases, selling first gives you more clarity, more financial freedom, and more control over your next move. It can help you buy with confidence instead of pressure — and that’s exactly how you want to feel when you’re stepping into your next chapter.