Thinking of Upgrading? How to Sell and Buy Without Losing Leverage

Upgrading your home should be exciting — not anxiety-inducing. But in today’s real estate climate, many would-be movers are feeling a little stuck. Maybe you’ve built up serious equity, but the idea of selling your current home and jumping into a new mortgage at a higher rate gives you pause.

We get it. You’re not alone — and you’re not out of options.

💡 If you’re thinking about moving up but don’t want to lose negotiating power on either side, let’s chat. Reach out to our team for a personalized strategy that works with today’s market realities.

Why "The Wait" Isn’t Always Worth It

A lot of clients have been sitting on the sidelines waiting for interest rates to drop. That strategy sounds smart… until you realize how many other buyers are doing the exact same thing.

Here’s the reality:

• Rates may drop slightly — or not at all — in the next 6–12 months.

• If they do drop, buyer competition will surge (think: bidding wars, reduced inventory, and rising prices).

• Meanwhile, your current home’s equity is just sitting there — instead of helping you get closer to the lifestyle or space you actually want.

Translation: Waiting for the “perfect” economic moment could end up costing more than moving now with a solid, strategic plan.

Step One: Know Your Leverage

Selling and buying at the same time doesn’t mean you have to lose control — but it does mean you need a game plan.

Start by answering:

• What is your current home realistically worth in today’s market?

• What kind of home are you hoping to move into?

• Are you looking for a bigger home, better location, newer build, or all of the above?

Once we’ve identified your ideal next step, we can help determine how much leverage you have on both sides — and what options give you flexibility.

Step Two: Timing Tactics

Here are a few common strategies that smart, move-up buyers in Austin are using right now:

🧠 1. Sell First, Then Lease Back

Negotiate a leaseback agreement with your buyer so you have time to find your next home without being rushed.

🔁 2. Make a Contingent Offer (Yes, It’s Still Possible)

In a more balanced market, contingent offers are making a comeback — especially in the luxury segment.

💸 3. Use a Bridge Loan or HELOC to Unlock Equity

Tap into your current home’s equity to fund your next down payment before you sell — without having to move twice. And we can help get you in touch with the right financing people to help you if you decide to go this route.

Step Three: Be a Buyer With Confidence

A major concern we hear: “But won’t I lose leverage on the buying side if I’m also trying to sell?”

That depends. When you work with an experienced team (hi there!), you can time your sale to maximize profit while targeting homes with more negotiability on the purchase side — especially if you’re upgrading into a price bracket with higher inventory.

Bonus tip: Many move-up buyers in Austin are finding value by moving just a little farther west or south, where you get more house and land for the same dollar.

Step Four: Think Big Picture

Yes, today’s interest rates may be higher than you’re used to — but they’re not forever. What is likely to grow is the value of your next property.

If you can afford the home now, you can always refinance later — but you may not always be able to buy in at today’s price.

The Bottom Line

If your current home no longer fits your lifestyle (or your storage bins are now living in your dining room), upgrading may be exactly what you need. And with the right strategy, you can make the move without sacrificing leverage, equity, or peace of mind.

📬 Let’s put a plan together. Whether you’re six weeks out or just toying with the idea, get in touch and we’ll walk you through your options — no pressure, no gimmicks, just real advice for a smart next move.