Deciding the Best Approach: Sell or Buy Your Calgary Home First?

Deciding the Best Approach: Sell or Buy Your Calgary Home First?

When embarking on a new home search as a current homeowner, a significant question arises: should you sell your existing home before seeking a new one, or vice versa? Let's delve into both strategies to determine which might be best for your unique circumstances.

The Case for Selling First

Advantages: Selling your current home before diving into the housing market can offer clarity and negotiation power. With the proceeds from your sale, you'll have a clear budget, enabling you to focus on homes within your price range. This certainty empowers you to make compelling, unconditional offers, which sellers often prioritize. As a result, you may secure a better deal or snag your dream home before others.

Considerations: The main concern with selling first is the potential gap between the sale of your old home and the purchase of a new one. This could mean seeking temporary housing, which may not be ideal for everyone. Before choosing this route, assess the feasibility of temporary living situations and weigh the potential inconveniences against the benefits.

Reasons to Buy First

Advantages: Choosing to buy before selling might stem from stumbling upon a rare property or an incredible deal that's too good to pass up. By securing your next home, you avoid missing out on exceptional real estate opportunities.

Considerations: This approach is not without risk. If you face delays selling your old home, you might be burdened with two mortgages. While a home evaluation provides an estimate, the final selling price can be unpredictable. Shouldering the costs of two properties may strain your finances, and in worst-case scenarios, force a hasty sale at a discounted price. Evaluate your financial resilience and risk appetite before opting to buy first.

Navigating Conditional Offers

Overview: Another strategy is placing a conditional offer contingent upon selling your current home within a defined timeframe. This middle-ground approach can offer some flexibility and security. However, it's worth noting that conditional offers may not pack the same punch as firm offers in sellers' eyes, potentially reducing your negotiation leverage.

Drawbacks: Sellers may perceive conditional offers as less serious, meaning you may have to augment your offer to secure the property. Additionally, even if your offer is accepted, there's always a risk another buyer could outbid you before you complete your sale. Moreover, you're bound by the timeframe set in the conditional offer, potentially sidelining you from better deals.

In conclusion, whether you decide to sell or buy first, ensure you're well-informed, consider all scenarios, and consult with professionals to make a decision that aligns with your needs and financial well-being.