Timing Your Sale and New Purchase in Today's Market

The days of listing your home on Friday and being in contract by Monday are not as common as they once were. After years of houses flying off the market, Central Oregon’s real estate landscape has shifted. Generally, homes are now spending a longer time on the market, buyers have regained negotiating power, and the once-predictable timeline has become not always predictable. This slower pace might seem like a relief, but it can create new challenges for anyone trying to coordinate a sale and a purchase in-town or out-of-state. With longer timelines, more negotiations, and increased uncertainty, strategic timing and careful planning with your agent have never been more critical.

Here’s how to navigate and keep your transactions on track:

Don’t drink all the champagne when your offer is accepted. Getting an offer accepted is exciting, but it’s just the first step in a long process. There is a lot of work to be done during acceptance and closing. Save the real celebration for when you get the keys!

Pay close attention to contingency periods and meet every deadline. Your agent will help you track and meet all contingency deadlines. Missing even one can void your contract or cost you thousands. Staying on top of inspection deadlines, financing contingency dates, appraisal contingency dates, and title review deadlines is a big job. A great agent will communicate effectively and even work in a few buffer days to allow for unforeseen delays or circumstances.

Create a 30-day buffer between your sale and purchase closing dates. Whenever possible, schedule your home sale to close at least 30 days before your new home purchase. This prevents the unfortunate scenario of having to move twice or pay for two mortgages simultaneously.

Have backup plans ready. Secure temporary housing options like short-term rentals or staying with family, research nearby storage facilities for month-to-month rentals, and maintain a list of reliable movers who can accommodate last-minute scheduling changes. Even the best-laid plans sometimes need adjustment.

Build in extra time for financing. Get pre-approved early and maintain that approval throughout your search. Have backup lender options ready in case your primary lender runs into issues.

Start packing early, but strategically. Begin packing non-essentials 2-3 months before your planned move date. Leave essentials for last and keep important documents in an easily accessible folder.

In Bend’s shifting market, successful coordination of a sale and purchase isn’t about perfect timing. It’s about smart planning and building flexibility into every step. By creating buffers, tracking deadlines meticulously, and having backup plans ready, you can navigate the uncertainty with confidence rather than stress. Remember, the goal isn’t to predict every twist and turn in today’s market, but to position yourself to handle whatever comes your way. With a knowledgeable agent by your side, you can move from one home to another smoothly, even when the market throws you curveballs.

This article appears in Source Weekly May 22, 2025.