How to Sell Your Current Home While Buying a New Build

By Steven J. Thomas | Refind Realty

Introduction

One of the most common questions I get is this: “How do I sell my house and buy a new construction home at the same time?” I’ve helped dozens of homeowners through this exact situation. It takes strategy, timing, and a clear plan—but it’s absolutely doable.

Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or just ready for something brand-new, here’s what you need to know if you want to buy a new build while selling your current home in Dallas-Fort Worth.

Step 1: Understand the Timeline of New Construction

Most new builds take 6 to 10 months from contract to move-in. That gives you time to prep and sell your current home. If you're buying a quick move-in (inventory home), the timeline could be just 30 to 60 days.

Pro tip from me: Builders often offer flexibility on closing dates if you’re upfront about needing to sell first.

➤ Explore DFW new construction homes
➤ Check out our New Construction Webinar

Step 2: Talk to a Lender About Bridge Financing or Home Sale Contingency Options

When you buy a new build, you might need temporary financing or to structure your purchase as “contingent” on the sale of your current home.

Here are three common options:

• Home Sale Contingency: Protects you from having to buy if your current home doesn’t sell

• Bridge Loan: A short-term loan to help cover your new purchase before you sell

• Home Equity Loan: Access your home’s equity upfront to use toward the new build

I’ll help coordinate with your lender so everything is timed correctly.

➤ Get pre-approved here

Step 3: Prep Your Current Home for Market

This part is key. We need your home to look its best so it sells quickly and for top dollar. I’ll help you identify what updates matter, which ones don’t, and how to price your home competitively.

What I provide:

• Professional photography

• Detailed home valuation

• Custom marketing plan

• Access to my full seller toolkit

➤ Use our Home Seller Checklist
➤ Download Home Seller Guides

Step 4: Coordinate Both Closings

Timing is everything. You don’t want to be homeless in between sales. Here’s how we avoid that:

• Negotiate a leaseback: Stay in your current home after closing for 30–60 days while your new home finishes

• Use temporary housing: I help my clients find short-term rentals if needed

• Time the sale and build so your move is seamless

My job is to keep everything moving in sync so you don’t feel rushed—or stuck.

Step 5: Take Advantage of Builder Incentives

Builders often offer incentives for buyers who do not have to sell a home. If you plan ahead or use temporary financing, you might qualify for closing cost assistance, design upgrades, or interest rate buydowns.

➤ Use our Rebate Program to save thousands

FAQs

1. Can I make an offer on a new build before I sell my home?
Yes. Some builders allow contingent offers. Others may require your home to be under contract first.

2. What if my home doesn’t sell in time?
We can include contingency language to protect you. I also help clients price and stage homes to sell quickly.

3. How do I time selling and buying together?
I’ll work with your builder, lender, and title company to align your closings as closely as possible.

4. Can I rent my current home instead of selling?
Yes, but it depends on your financing. Let’s talk about pros and cons based on your goals.

5. Is now a good time to make this move in Dallas?
Yes. Inventory is still tight, and new builds give you flexibility and often better value.

Conclusion

Selling and buying at the same time doesn’t have to be stressful. With a solid plan and the right support, you can make a smooth transition from your current home into a brand-new one. I’ll guide you through every step so you can focus on the excitement—not the logistics.

Download the Lone Star App here: https://lonestarliving.hsidx.com/@sthomas
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