Buying & Selling at the Same Time: How to Ride Two Horses Without Falling Off

by Melissa Elliott

Buying & Selling at the Same Time: How to Ride Two Horses Without Falling Off

By Melissa Elliott, The Real Estate Wrangler of North & East Texas

Buying a new home while selling your current one can feel a whole lot like trying to ride two wild horses at once—blindfolded, with a cup of coffee in one hand, and a toddler yelling "Mom!" from the fence line.

But here's the good news: it can be done. And I’ve helped plenty of folks pull it off without losing their lunch or their sanity.

So if you’re trying to time your move just right—whether you're upsizing for your growing family or downsizing because you're over mowing 2 acres every Saturday—here’s how to saddle up and ride this thing smart.

1. Know Your Market Before You Giddy-Up

Whether we’re in a seller’s market, buyer’s market, or something in-between, that plays a big role in how you approach your move.

If homes are flying off the market, your current house may sell fast—so you’ll want to have a game plan for where you're going next.
If the market's slower, we might need to prep and stage your home like it’s going on a dating app. First impressions matter.

I’ll run the comps, help you understand timing, and we’ll map out a strategy that’s as solid as a seasoned rodeo rider’s seat.

2. Use Contingencies Like a Safety Net

Contingency clauses are like the lasso that keeps things from spinning out of control.

Home sale contingency means you don’t have to buy the new house unless your current one sells.
Home purchase contingency lets you delay closing on your current home until you’ve roped in your next one.

They’re not always easy to negotiate, but that’s where having a tough-as-nails, been-there-done-that agent comes in handy. Hint: that's me.

3. Bridge Loans, Leasebacks & Backup Plans (Because Life Happens)

Sometimes, you might need a little wiggle room.

A bridge loan can help you finance the new home before the old one sells.
A leaseback lets you sell your home but rent it back for a short time so you don’t have to move twice.
And I always help clients build a Plan B—because sometimes that dream home sells to someone else, or your buyer needs an extra week.

We plan for smooth, but we’re ready for bumps.

4. Get Pre-Approved & Pre-Packed

Before you fall in love with your next home, let’s make sure you’re pre-approved and ready to make a strong offer. No one likes heartbreak, especially when it comes with hardwood floors and a wraparound porch.

At the same time, let’s get your current home show-ready. That means decluttering, staging, and packing like you’ve already sold it—because you just might.

5. Have a Wrangler in Your Corner

Trying to buy and sell at the same time is no small feat. You need someone who’s good with contracts, deadlines, showings, negotiations, and the occasional “Oh no, what now?” moment.

That’s where I come in—not just as your Realtor, but as your partner in this wild ride. I’ll steer the reins, keep you grounded, and help you land both deals with confidence (and maybe a little yeehaw).