What to do if you sold your house but you have not yet found a home.

Blog 23

What If You Sell Your House but Can’t Find One to Buy?

It’s one of the most common (and stressful) questions for homeowners looking to make a move: What happens if I sell my house, but I haven’t found a new one yet?

In today’s fast-moving market, it’s not unusual for homes to sell quickly—sometimes in days—but finding the right place to buy can take a bit more time. If you're feeling caught in that in-between stage, you're not alone. Luckily, there are a few smart strategies to help you navigate this situation with less stress and more confidence.

First, Take a Deep Breath

Selling your home is a big milestone, and it's a sign that you're already making progress. But yes, the idea of not having your next move lined up can feel overwhelming. The good news? You’ve got options.

1. Negotiate a Rent-Back Agreement

One of the most common solutions is to ask for a rent-back or post-closing possession agreement when selling your home. This means that after your home closes, you stay in it as a renter for a short period (usually 30–60 days) while you search for your next place.

This gives you some breathing room without having to move twice.

2. Make Your Sale Contingent on Finding a New Home

If you’re not in a rush to sell, you can ask your real estate agent to include a “home of choice” contingency in your listing. This lets buyers know your sale depends on you securing your next home. Not all buyers love contingencies, especially in a competitive market, but it can work—especially if you’re in a seller’s market with high demand.

3. Move into Temporary Housing

Not ideal, we know—but it’s doable and sometimes necessary. You can rent short-term housing, stay with family or friends, or even explore extended-stay options. Yes, it means moving twice, but it also allows you to take your time finding the right home without the pressure of rushing into something that doesn’t feel like a fit.

4. Consider a Bridge Loan

A bridge loan is a short-term loan that can help cover the gap between selling your current home and buying your next one. It can allow you to buy before you sell—or tap into your home equity while you're still in the process of closing. It’s not for everyone, but it’s worth discussing with a lender if you need financial flexibility.

5. Expand Your Search or Adjust Expectations

Sometimes the delay in finding a home comes down to a limited search. If you're striking out, consider widening your location radius, rethinking your “must-haves,” or looking at homes that need a little TLC. The right home might not look exactly how you pictured it—but it could be full of potential.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home before you’ve found a new one can feel like stepping off a cliff without seeing where you’ll land. But with the right planning and support, it’s entirely manageable.

Talk with your real estate agent early about your timeline, goals, and backup plans. The key is having a flexible strategy in place before your house hits the market.

At the end of the day, remember: this is just a transition. Your next home is out there—you just need the right plan to find it.