Selling and Buying at the Same Time: How to Keep It All Moving

Selling and buying at the same time? Here’s how to keep the process moving smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

Selling and buying at the same time can feel like spinning plates. You’re juggling estate agents, buyers, sellers, solicitors, and lenders all at once. One delay in the chain can cause stress and uncertainty.

The good news is, there are ways to keep everything moving. Here’s how to stay on top of the process and reduce the stress.

Get your property market-ready early

Before you even start looking for your next home, prepare your current property for sale. Declutter, fix small issues, and get professional photos. A property that’s ready to market attracts buyers faster.

Sort your finances upfront

Speak to a broker early so you know how much you can borrow and what deposit you’ll have once your property sells. Having clarity makes your onward purchase more straightforward.

Work with experienced professionals

Estate agents and solicitors who handle chains regularly can spot problems early and keep communication flowing. Choosing the right team makes a huge difference to how smoothly things move.

Understand the chain and where risks sit

Chains can be unpredictable. If your buyer has a buyer, or your seller has yet to find, there are more opportunities for delay. Knowing where the weak links are helps you prepare and manage expectations.

Keep communication open

Check in regularly with your solicitor, broker, and estate agent. Proactive updates can prevent delays and help you act quickly if issues arise.

The Bottom Line

Buying and selling at the same time isn’t easy, but it’s manageable with preparation, the right team, and proactive communication. The more organised you are, the smoother the process will feel.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or other loan secured against it.

• What does it mean to be in a property chain?

  A chain is when your sale and purchase depend on other transactions happening at the same time.

• Can I buy before I sell my current property?

  It’s possible, but you may need a bridging loan or significant savings, which isn’t suitable for everyone.

• How can I reduce stress when selling and buying together?

  Preparation, clear finances, and working with experienced professionals will make the process smoother.