Moving & Relocation

How do I sell and buy at the same time?

By Bob Millaway July 26, 2026

Short Answer

Selling your current home and buying your next one at the same time requires careful coordination. Your options include: making your offer contingent on the sale of your current home, using a bridge loan or home equity line to access your equity early, negotiating a rent-back agreement with the buyer of your current home, or using a trade-in program that guarantees the sale of your home. Each option has tradeoffs that depend on your financial situation and timeline.

Coordinating a simultaneous sale and purchase is one of the most complex real estate transactions. The most common approach is a sale contingency, where your offer to buy includes a clause stating that the purchase depends on the successful sale of your current home. This protects you but makes your offer less attractive to sellers, especially in competitive markets. A bridge loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC) allows you to access the equity in your current home before it sells, giving you cash for a down payment on your new home without waiting for the sale to close. This is a stronger position when making an offer. A rent-back agreement lets you sell your home and then rent it back from the new owners for a specified period, giving you time to close on your new home. Trade-in programs, including the one I offer, guarantee the sale of your home so you can buy your next home with certainty.

Bob Millaway

Bob's Advice

Redfin Senior Agent · AI Certified Agent

Selling and buying at the same time is stressful, but it does not have to be. I have helped many families navigate this transition smoothly. My Trade-In Program guarantees the sale of your current home so you can buy your next home with confidence, no contingencies needed. If you are facing the challenge of buying and selling at the same time, let us talk. I will explain your options and help you choose the path that minimizes stress and maximizes your outcome.

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