Sell before buying or buy before selling: which is the better choice?

24 Apr 2026

When you consider moving to a new home, a crucial question arises: should you sell your current property before acquiring a new one, or buy first and then sell? Each option has advantages and drawbacks that are essential to consider in order to make the choice best suited to your situation.

Selling before buying: a secure approach

Choosing to sell before buying offers greater financial visibility. By selling your current property, you will know exactly the amount you have available to purchase your new home. This clarity simplifies dealings with financial institutions and prevents you from bearing the costs of two homes simultaneously. Moreover, this strategy places you in a stronger negotiating position when purchasing your future property.

However, this approach has downsides. The main risk is ending up without housing if the sale of your current home goes faster than anticipated. Additionally, the real estate market can be dynamic, and you could miss out on interesting opportunities if the selling process drags on. In that case, a temporary rental can be considered to ensure housing continuity.

Buying before selling: seizing opportunities

Buying a new property before selling yours has the advantage of not letting a rare market opportunity slip by. This strategy allows you to secure the home of your dreams without waiting for the sale of your current property. It also avoids the costs associated with temporary rental and a double move.

Conversely, this approach carries financial risks. You will probably need to take out a bridging loan, a temporary financing option that can be costly and risky if the sale of your property is delayed. Moreover, banks are often reluctant to grant bridging loans without a solid file, a substantial down payment, or a signed sale agreement for your current property. Therefore, it is crucial to accurately evaluate the value of your property and to have sufficient borrowing capacity to assume two loans simultaneously.

Financial considerations and recommendations

Before making a decision, it is essential to:

Have your current property appraised: A realistic assessment of your property's value is essential to determine the budget available for purchasing your new home.
Consult a mortgage broker: A professional can help you assess your borrowing capacity, negotiate the best financing terms, and secure your financing plan, particularly regarding a bridging loan if you are considering buying before selling.
Anticipate sale timelines: The real estate market can be unpredictable. Plan transition solutions, such as temporary renting, to cover any potential delays in selling your current property.

Conclusion

The choice between selling before buying or buying before selling depends on your personal situation, your risk tolerance, and local real estate market conditions. Careful preparation, an accurate appraisal of your property, and consultation with industry professionals will help you make the most suitable choice for your needs and secure your real estate project.

Sources

The information in this article is for general purposes only and may not reflect current laws or regulations. Verify any details with a qualified professional before making decisions. Some portions may have been created with AI assistance and should be confirmed for accuracy.

Written by Karine Haché

Mortgage broker