If you’re planning a move, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is: Do I sell my current home before buying my next one, or buy first and sell later?
The right choice depends on your finances, lifestyle, and the current market. This quick quiz will help you figure out which option might work best for you. Keep track of your answers!
1. How important is financial certainty for you?
A) Very important — I want to know exactly how much I’ll have from my sale before buying.
B) I’m comfortable with some uncertainty if it means I can secure my dream home.
2. What’s your current financial position?
A) Most of my equity is in my current home, and I’ll need it for my next down payment.
B) I have enough savings, investments, or financing options to buy without selling first.
3. How quickly are homes selling in your area?
A) It could take weeks or months to sell.
B) Homes are selling within days, often with multiple offers.
4. How flexible is your living situation?
A) I’d need to move directly from my current home to the next one.
B) I could stay with family, rent short-term, or have another temporary option.
5. How picky are you about your next home?
A) I’m flexible and open to different options.
B) I have a very specific wish list and don’t want to risk missing the perfect property.
6. How do you handle pressure?
A) I prefer a slower pace and want time to make decisions after I sell.
B) I can handle managing two transactions at once if it means getting the home I want.
7. Are you comfortable with bridge loans or contingency offers?
A) I’d rather avoid complicated financing and extra costs.
B) I’m open to using financial tools to make the process work.
8. What’s your main priority in this move?
A) Maximizing my selling price and financial security.
B) Locking in my ideal home before someone else buys it.
9. How confident are you in selling your current home quickly?
A) Not very — it might take some time.
B) Very confident — my home is in a desirable area and market.
10. How much risk are you willing to take?
A) Minimal risk — I want a clear, safe plan.
B) I’m willing to take on some risk for the chance to secure the perfect home.
Your Results
Mostly A’s – Sell First
You prefer financial certainty and a simpler process. Selling first means you know exactly how much you can spend on your next home, avoiding the stress of two mortgages. You might need temporary housing during the transition, but this approach reduces risk—especially if your home could take time to sell. It’s a smart choice if you want clear budgeting and less financial pressure.
Mostly B’s – Buy First
You’re comfortable with some risk and have the financial flexibility to act fast. Buying first lets you lock in your ideal home without rushing the sale of your current one. Just keep in mind you might juggle two mortgages for a while, and bridge loans or contingencies could be involved. This works well if you have savings or confidence that your current home will sell quickly.
Whether you sell first or buy first, the key is planning ahead. The right real estate strategy will depend on the market conditions, your finances, and your personal comfort level. In Los Angeles, timing can make all the difference — so let’s create a plan that works for you.
