Should You Buy or Sell First in Colorado?

🏠 Should You Buy or Sell First in Colorado?

If you’re planning to move — whether you’re upgrading to a larger home or downsizing into something easier to manage — there’s one big question most Colorado homeowners ask:

Should I buy first or sell first?

In a fast-moving market like Colorado’s, timing both can feel overwhelming. But with a clear strategy and a good understanding of your options, you can make it work — without losing sleep (or money). Let’s walk through the pros and cons of each approach and the key factors to help you decide.

Option 1: Sell First, Then Buy

This is the more traditional route — and for many people, it’s also the safer option financially. Here’s why:

✅ Pros:

You know exactly how much equity you’ll have to put toward your next home.
You won’t be paying two mortgages at the same time.
If needed, you can rent temporarily or stay with family/friends while you shop for your next home with no pressure to rush.

❌ Cons:

You may feel rushed to find your next home, especially in a low-inventory market.
Renting in between moves can mean extra expenses, short-term leases, and moving twice.
It can be emotionally stressful to be “in between” homes — especially with kids, pets, or large families.

Option 2: Buy First, Then Sell

Some people prefer to lock in their next home before putting their current one on the market. This strategy can work — but it requires careful planning and solid financials.

✅ Pros:

You can take your time finding the right home without rushing or settling.
There’s no need for temporary housing or storage, making for a smoother move.
You can stage and show your current home without living in it, which may help it sell faster and for more money.

❌ Cons:

You’ll likely need to carry two mortgages (at least temporarily) unless you use a bridge loan or home equity line.
If your current home takes time to sell, it could strain your finances.
Not every buyer qualifies to purchase before selling — especially with tighter lending guidelines.

Option 3: List with a Contingency or Use a Rent-Back

In today’s Colorado market, buyers and sellers are getting creative. There are a couple of middle-ground strategies that might work for you:

🔁 Use a contingent offer:

This means you make an offer to buy a new home only if your current home sells. In slower markets, this is more commonly accepted. In hotter markets, sellers may prefer non-contingent offers — so it depends on timing.

🏡 Ask for a post-closing occupancy agreement (rent-back):

You sell your home, but stay in it for a few weeks after closing while you shop and move into your next one. This is a great option if the buyer is flexible and you’re close to finding your next home.

What’s Happening in Colorado Right Now?

The Colorado real estate market is shifting — and it’s not the same everywhere. In some parts of Colorado Springs, we’re seeing early signs of a buyer’s market, while other neighborhoods remain competitive and seller-friendly.

That’s why every move should be customized. Some buyers may have room to negotiate, ask for concessions, or take more time to shop. Others, especially in high-demand areas, still need to move quickly and submit strong offers.

The key is understanding what’s happening in your specific area — and adjusting your strategy accordingly. That’s where having a local agent (hi, it’s me 👋) who understands the nuances of each neighborhood really matters.

So, What’s the Right Move for You?

Here are a few questions to consider:

Do you need the equity from your current home to buy your next one?
Can you qualify for a new mortgage while still owning your current home?
Are you comfortable moving twice if needed?
Is the market in your area moving quickly or slowing down?
Are there homes available in the area you’re hoping to buy in?

If you’re not sure where to start, that’s what I’m here for. I help clients evaluate their financial position, market conditions, and personal goals to create a plan that works — whether that means buying first, selling first, or using a creative combination of both.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to buying and selling at the same time. What matters most is your comfort level, timeline, and local market trends. With a little planning and guidance, you can make a smooth move — and I’d be honored to help you through it.

Whether you’re moving up, downsizing, or relocating across town, let’s make a plan that works for you.