Buying Before Selling: Start With the Carrying Costs
A buy-before-you-sell option may let you move once, but the right fit depends on your equity, lender approval, fees and ability to carry both homes. For a North Dallas move, compare the full cost and the backup plan if your current home takes longer to sell.
Original June 16, 2026 Guest Commentary
The mortgage-rate figure and outlook below are historical commentary from the original publication, not a current quote or forecast. Obtain a dated written quote for your own loan, including its rate, APR, points, fees and lock terms.
The mortgage market continues to evolve, creating both challenges and opportunities for homebuyers. While recent global events have influenced interest rates, there is growing optimism that the worst of the rate increases may be behind us.
The original June 16, 2026 article referenced 30-year fixed mortgage rates averaging around 6.58%, with many analysts projecting rates could gradually ease over time. In the meantime, buyers who act now may benefit from increased negotiating power, seller concessions, and opportunities for rate buydowns—advantages that could become less available as competition returns to the market.
For homeowners who need to sell before buying, there’s also an innovative solution worth considering: the ability to buy first and move only once. Through bridge loan programs and guaranteed backup offers, homeowners may be able to access equity from their current home, make a noncontingent offer on their next property, and avoid the stress of juggling multiple moves.
Every buyer’s situation is unique, and understanding your financing options can help you make a confident, informed decision in today’s market.
Guest contributor Pam Thorn specializes in helping buyers navigate financing solutions that align with their goals and lifestyle.
Questions to Compare Before You Commit
- How much equity can you access, and what appraisal, loan and program requirements apply?
- What are the interest charges, origination fees, closing costs and payments while both homes are owned?
- Does the backup offer have a price adjustment, fees, deadlines or conditions? Ask for the actual written terms.
- What happens if the home sells below expectations or the sale takes longer? Compare that scenario with selling first and arranging temporary housing.
- Can you qualify for the next mortgage while carrying the existing obligations? Your lender needs to confirm this before you make an offer.
Program availability and eligibility vary. A backup offer is only as useful as its written conditions, and neither a sale price nor a future refinance is assured.
Review the CFPB Loan Estimate guide, then compare your purchase costs and options for your current home.
Let’s map out your sale and purchase timeline. We can coordinate the property questions with your lender’s financing review before you decide how to move.
