Buying and Selling a Home This Fall

 

                                                          Image by wirestock on Freepik


Buying and Selling a Home This Fall: Tips for a Smooth Move

Fall is one of the most underrated times to make a move. With cooler weather, beautiful curb appeal, and buyers looking to settle in before the holidays, it can be an ideal season to both buy and sell. But what if you need to do both at the same time? Coordinating these two big moves can feel overwhelming—but with the right planning, you can enjoy a seamless transition into your next home before the holiday season begins.

Here are some helpful tips to make it happen this fall:

1. Review Your Finances Before Pumpkin Spice Season Kicks Into Gear

Before you shop for your next home, meet with a lender to determine:

  • How much equity you have in your current home

  • What you’ll qualify for on a new mortgage

  • Whether you’ll need to sell before buying

Lining this up early ensures you’ll be ready to act quickly in a fall market that tends to move fast.

2. Decide Which Comes First: Buying or Selling

Fall buyers often want to close before Thanksgiving or Christmas, while sellers want to move before year’s end. Consider whether it’s smarter for you to sell first (so you can tap into your equity) or buy first (to secure your next home before holiday inventory tightens).

3. Use Contingencies Wisely

A home sale contingency allows you to make an offer on a new home that’s dependent on selling your current one. While they’re not always accepted in every market, fall buyers may be more open to flexible terms if they’re also trying to move before the holidays.

4. Look Into Short-Term Financing Options

If you need access to funds before your home sells, talk with your lender about a bridge loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC). These options can help cover the gap and give you peace of mind during a busy season.

5. Work With One Trusted Realtor®

The fall season can be busy for families juggling school, sports, and holiday prep. Having one Realtor® manage both your buying and selling ensures smooth communication, aligned timelines, and less stress for you.

6. Have a Backup Plan for Temporary Housing

Even with the best planning, timelines may not line up perfectly. Consider short-term rentals, staying with family, or arranging a leaseback agreement (selling your home but renting it back for a short time). This is especially handy if you want to avoid moving twice during the holidays.

7. Stage With Seasonal Charm

If you’re selling, embrace fall décor. Simple touches like mums by the door, a cozy throw on the couch, or a lightly scented pumpkin candle can create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that resonates with buyers during this season.

Final Thoughts

Buying and selling at the same time can feel like a juggling act, but fall is the perfect season to make your move. With the right planning, financial strategy, and professional guidance, you can transition smoothly into your next home—and be settled in just in time to host the holidays.

If you’re considering making a move this fall, we’d love to help you plan every step of the way.

Melissa & D'Ann

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