Buying and Selling at the Same Time: How to Navigate the Chaos with Confidence

Selling your current home to buy another can feel like one of the most stressful life events – and for good reason. You're trying to manage two major financial transactions, coordinate moving timelines, and make big decisions about where to live next – all at once. But while it can be a challenge, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare.

This guide will walk you through the key steps to successfully buying and selling at the same time, helping you streamline the process, avoid common pitfalls, and focus on what really matters.

Step 1: Is Moving the Right Move?

Before you dive in, make sure that moving is the right decision for you. This sounds simple, but it’s one of the most important steps. Ask yourself:

• Have your housing needs changed?

• Would renovations meet your needs instead of a move?

• Are you emotionally ready to leave your current home?

Check out: [Should I Stay or Should I Go?] for a deep dive into these questions. It will help you make an informed decision that's right for your lifestyle and finances.

Step 2: Get Your House in Order (Literally!)

Once you’ve decided to sell, it’s time to roll up your sleeves. Start with the jobs you’ve been avoiding — decluttering, minor repairs, touch-up paint, deep cleaning — the works. The goal is to show your home in its best light.

Helpful read: [Preparing to Sell Your Home – Time to Declutter?]

Even if you change your mind about moving, you’ll be glad you took the time to refresh your space!

Step 3: Organise Your Finances

With your home looking its best, it's time to get the numbers sorted.

• Get a Free Market Appraisal: Call LS Properties on 089 458 9430 to find out what your home is worth.

• Do Your Research: Look at properties in your desired area to understand market prices.

• Talk to Your Bank: Book an appointment and get pre-approved for a mortgage (if needed). This will clarify your buying budget.

Understanding your financial position early gives you clarity and confidence for the next steps.

Step 4: Prepare Your Paperwork

This is where many sellers run into delays. Get ahead by preparing your legal documents early:

• Arrange a BER cert if you don’t already have one.

• Appoint a solicitor and ensure they have all necessary documentation to draw up contracts quickly.

Check out: [Preparing to Sell Your Property – The Legals] for a full checklist.

Step 5: Put Your Home on the Market

Now you’re ready to sell! Choose your estate agent (auctioneer) and begin marketing your home.

Make sure your property stands out with great photos, a strong online listing, and clear communication about viewings. A good agent will guide you through this and help attract serious buyers.

Step 6: Be Smart About Timing – Watch the Market, But Don’t Jump the Gun

This step is crucial: don’t start house hunting until you have a strong offer on your current home.

Why?

• You’re not in a position to make an offer yet.

• You risk falling in love with a home and missing out.

• It can be emotionally exhausting to view homes without being ready to act.

Once you go sale agreed, make sure your buyers are progressing quickly with their survey and valuation — this puts you in a better position to start making offers.

Step 7: Start Buying

With your home sale agreed (or very close), now’s the time to go shopping!

• View properties with confidence.

• When you find the right one, make your offer and go sale agreed.

• Get your survey and valuation booked ASAP.

Pro tip: Try to align both sale and purchase closing dates. It’s not always easy, but it can reduce stress significantly.

Bonus tip: Arrange short-term accommodation just in case. Even one or two nights in a hotel or with family can make all the difference if the sales don’t close on the same day.

Finally – Enjoy Your New Home!

Moving house is a journey filled with ups and downs, but with the right preparation and a great team behind you, it can be a smooth transition.

Stay organised, communicate openly, and keep your eye on the bigger picture — your next home, your next chapter.

Thinking of buying and selling at the same time?Call LS Properties on 089 458 9430 for your free market appraisal and let’s get you moving in the right direction!