Buying Before You Sell: Home Sale Contingencies and Other Options

By David Parks · eXp Realty · The Apollo Group · 2 min read

The Short Answer

Buying before you sell can be done through a home sale contingency, bridge financing, or using home equity. Each has trade-offs for cost, risk, and how sellers view your offer.

Buying Before You Sell: Home Sale Contingencies and Other Options
Stock photo: Pexels

Option 1: Home sale contingency

Your offer depends on selling your current home by a certain date. This can reduce risk for you but is often less attractive to sellers, especially in competitive markets.

Option 2: Bridge loan or equity line

A short-term loan or line of credit based on your current home’s equity lets you make a non-contingent offer. It adds cost and complexity.

Quick Poll

Where are you in the buying process?

Option 3: Sell first, then buy

Reduces financial risk but may require temporary housing or a rent-back from the buyer of your home.

Option 4: Coordinated closings

Schedule both closings on the same day or close together, which requires careful planning among lenders and title companies.

What to do

Talk with a lender about how a new mortgage works while you still own your current home. Ask your agent which approach fits your market, your budget, and your risk tolerance.

Key Takeaways
  • Option 1: Home sale contingency: Your offer depends on selling your current home by a certain date.
  • Option 2: Bridge loan or equity line: A short-term loan or line of credit based on your current home’s equity lets you make a non-contingent offer.
  • Option 3: Sell first, then buy: Reduces financial risk but may require temporary housing or a rent-back from the buyer of your home.
  • Option 4: Coordinated closings: Schedule both closings on the same day or close together, which requires careful planning among lenders and title companies.

This article is general information, not legal, tax, financial or inspection advice. Every home and situation is different, so confirm details with a licensed inspector, lender, attorney or tax professional.

David Parks
About David Parks

David is a Greater Denver real estate advisor with eXp Realty and The Apollo Group (Colorado broker license FA100103211). He has closed more than $55 million in volume, earned eXp Icon status in 2025, and holds a 5.0 rating on Zillow from 27 verified reviews.

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