Top Mistakes Sellers Make When Buying and Selling at the Same Time

Top Mistakes Sellers Make When Buying and Selling at the Same Time

Buying and selling a home at the same time is one of the trickiest moves you can make in real estate. You’re juggling timelines, financing, emotions, and negotiations—all while trying to keep your daily life intact. I see this scenario often in Eugene, especially among families who have outgrown their first home or empty nesters looking to downsize. If that’s you, here are the biggest pitfalls to avoid (and what to do instead).

1. Not having a clear plan (or a Plan B)

This is the most common mistake I see. People assume they’ll list their home, get an offer quickly, and then find their dream home at just the right moment. But real estate doesn’t usually play out that smoothly. What happens if your home sells before you find a new one? Or what if you find the perfect house but your current one hasn’t gone pending?

The fix: You need a strategy before you start making moves. That means understanding your financing options (Can you buy before you sell? Will you need a bridge loan?), preparing for a possible interim rental or rent-back, and knowing how quickly homes are selling in your current price range and desired neighborhood. I always help my clients map out best-case and worst-case timelines so nothing catches them off guard.

2. Overestimating what their home will sell for

Everyone wants top dollar, and I get it—your home is full of memories and improvements you’ve made over time. But overpricing your home can backfire. If your home sits on the market too long, buyers start wondering what’s wrong with it. And if you’re relying on a certain price to fund your next purchase, you could find yourself short when it matters most.

The fix: Trust local data, not online estimates. I’ll run a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) that’s based on recent sales, condition, location, and current competition. That way, we’re pricing your home to attract buyers and give you the strongest footing when it’s time to write your next offer.

3. Waiting too long to prep their home

Some sellers are so focused on house hunting that they forget to get their current home ready for market. Then, once they find the one, they’re scrambling to declutter, clean, stage, photograph, and list within a matter of days—and it shows. This kind of rushed prep can cost you in terms of both time and sale price.

The fix: Start preparing your home now, even if you’re not quite ready to list. I walk my clients through what to do in stages—decluttering, small repairs, curb appeal boosts, etc.—so by the time you’re ready to go live, we can launch fast and strong. And yes, I have great local vendors who can help lighten the load.

4. Trying to time the market perfectly

There’s a myth that if you just wait for the perfect moment, you can sell high and buy low. In reality, timing both ends of a move like this is almost impossible. Markets shift quickly, and interest rate changes or unexpected buyer/seller competition can undo your perfect plan.

The fix: Instead of trying to time the market, focus on your own timing. What’s going on in your life that’s prompting this move? Are your finances ready? Are your kids starting school soon? Is your current home no longer working for you? When the decision is based on your lifestyle and goals—not just the market—you’ll make a move you’re happier with in the long run.

5. Being rigid with timing or terms

Sometimes sellers say, “I won’t buy until I sell” or “I’ll only move if I get a 60-day closing.” I get it—transitions are stressful. But if you’re too rigid with your requirements, you might scare off potential buyers or miss out on your next home.

The fix: Be open to creative solutions. For example, we can negotiate a rent-back that lets you stay in your home after it closes, or write a contingent offer that gives you a chance to sell first. I’ve seen families list their homes after their next offer was accepted (with proper contingencies) and make it work beautifully. Flexibility = leverage.

6. Failing to get pre-approved early

This one’s sneaky because many sellers assume that since they already own a home, getting financing will be a breeze. But if you haven’t talked to a lender yet, you might be basing your next purchase on an outdated or inaccurate assumption.

The fix: Get pre-approved before you start seriously looking. I always recommend working with a local lender who understands the complexity of selling and buying at the same time. They can show you options for simultaneous closings, bridge loans, or purchasing without making your offer contingent on a sale. And that can make a huge difference in a competitive market.

Final thoughts

Buying and selling at the same time is a balancing act—but it doesn’t have to be a circus. With a well-thought-out plan, the right financial prep, and a bit of flexibility, you can make a smooth transition from one home to the next. I’ve helped dozens of families across Eugene, Springfield, and the surrounding areas make this leap, and I’m happy to guide you through it too.

Thinking about moving but feeling stuck on where to start? Reach out. I’ll help you build a plan that works for your life—not just the market.