How To Buy Your Next Home Before Selling

By Justin Croft

Justin Croft has a passion for buying and selling residential real estate that is contagious. He is a skilled negotiator and problem solver who thrives on going above and beyond for his clients.

Lately, I’ve been getting a lot of calls from homeowners asking the same thing: “How can I buy my dream home without selling my current house first?” It’s a fair concern. No one wants to rush into a decision or settle for a home that doesn’t feel right. And let’s be honest, trying to time everything perfectly can feel overwhelming. But if you’re in this position, there’s a clear, simple strategy that can help you move forward with confidence.

Start by understanding your numbers. Before looking for your next home, you need two key pieces of information. First, determine how much money you’ll earn after selling your home. This is your net proceeds, and it helps you understand what you can comfortably afford for your next purchase. Second, look at how long it typically takes homes like yours to sell and close in today’s market. These two data points provide a solid foundation for planning your next steps.

The next step is to connect with a trusted local lender. Local lenders often offer more flexible and creative loan options than larger banks. One example is using a 401k loan to help with your down payment. After your current home sells, you can repay that loan and even remove private mortgage insurance, saving you money.

Some lenders also offer portfolio loans that allow a higher debt-to-income ratio for a short time. This is perfect for people who still own their first home while buying the next. On top of that, local lenders often work with several major banks, which means they can shop around to get you the best rate and terms.

With the right data and the right lender, you can make your move without pressure. You stay in control, avoid costly mistakes, and give yourself time to find the right home, not just the available one. You’ll reduce stress, close on time, and align with your financial goals.

If you’re ready to talk strategy or want a personal introduction to a great local lender, I’m here to help. I’ll review your numbers, walk you through the process, and help you take the next step. Call me at 214-213-7200 or email justin@croftrealestategroup.com to get started. This approach works, and I’m happy to walk you through it.