Should You Sell Before You Buy?

One of the most common questions homeowners ask when planning a move is:

Should I sell my current home before buying my next one, or buy first and sell later?

There’s no single right answer. The best option depends on your finances, your appetite for risk, and — crucially — local market conditions.

In this guide, we break down the pros and cons of selling before buying, explain when buying first can make sense, and share practical advice for homeowners in Wokingham.

Option 1: Selling Before You Buy

Pros of Selling First

1. You become chain-free
Once you’ve sold your property, you’re in a strong position. Chain-free buyers are attractive to sellers, especially in competitive markets.

2. You know exactly what you can afford
Selling first removes uncertainty. You’ll know your equity position, mortgage redemption figure, and realistic purchase budget — making you a more credible buyer.

3. Reduced financial risk
You avoid managing two properties, dual mortgages, or expensive bridging finance. For most homeowners, this is the lowest-risk route.

4. Less stress if the market slows
If the market changes, you’re not committed to a purchase while still trying to sell your existing home.

Cons of Selling First

1. Temporary accommodation may be required
If you don’t find your next home immediately, you may need short-term rental accommodation or to stay with family.

2. Risk of missing the ideal property
In areas with limited stock, some buyers worry about losing out on a home they love.

3. Double moving costs
Selling first can mean two moves, plus storage costs.

Option 2: Buying Before You Sell

Pros of Buying First

1. You secure the right property
If a rare or highly desirable home comes to market — particularly in a popular school catchment — buying first can make sense.

2. One straightforward move
Buying first can allow for a single, direct move, which many families prefer.

3. More time to prepare your sale
You can stage or refurbish your existing home to maximise value before selling.

Cons of Buying First

1. Higher financial exposure
You may need bridging finance, let-to-buy mortgages, or to carry two properties temporarily — all of which increase cost and risk.

2. Stamp Duty considerations
If you own two properties at completion, the higher rate of Stamp Duty may apply (even if reclaimable later).

3. Pressure to accept a lower offer
Once you’ve bought, you may feel forced to accept a lower offer on your existing home to keep your purchase on track.

What Usually Works Best in Wokingham?

In Wokingham and surrounding areas, we typically see:

 - Strong demand for family homes

 - Buyers prioritising chain-free or well-positioned purchasers

 - Timing sensitivity around school catchments

As a result, selling before buying often places buyers in the strongest negotiating position, particularly if you’re upsizing or relying on mortgage finance.

That said, buying first can still work in specific circumstances — such as downsizing, cash purchases, or when a truly rare property becomes available.

Alternatives Worth Considering

If neither option feels ideal, there are alternatives:

 - Short-term renting between moves

 - Let-to-buy or bridging finance (with professional advice)

 - Flexible or extended completion timelines

An experienced local agent can often help structure a move creatively to reduce risk and stress.

So, Should You Sell Before You Buy?

For most homeowners, selling before buying offers the safest and most controlled route, particularly in uncertain markets.

However, the right decision depends on your financial position, your appetite for risk, and local market conditions at the time.

Thinking of Moving in Wokingham?

At Quarters, we help homeowners plan their move strategically - not just list their property.

Thanks for reading, if we can be of any assistance please e-mail Nick Harris or Teresa Ling on hello@quarters.agency – we’re here to help!