So, what’s the best order: buy first, or sell first? The right choice depends on your finances, your comfort with risk, and the market conditions in your area. Let’s break it down.
Option 1: Buy First – When You Want More Control Over Your Move If you’ve already found your dream home, buying before you sell can give you flexibility and peace of mind. You can move at your own pace and stage your old home for sale once it’s empty – always a plus for presentation. The pros:
- Less pressure to move out fast. You’ll have time to pack, clean, and list your old home properly.
- Smoother transition. No temporary housing or storage costs.
- Better negotiating position. You can make strong offers without a “sale contingency” attached.
The cons:
- Double payments. You might carry two mortgages until your old home sells.
- Tied-up funds. Your down payment might be locked in your current home’s equity.
Smart solutions:
- Bridge loan: A short-term loan that lets you use your current home’s equity for your next down payment.
- HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit): Another way to access funds before selling.
- Renting out your current home: Temporary rental income can help offset costs if selling right away isn’t ideal.
Option 2: Sell First – When You Want to Play It Safe Selling first means you’ll know exactly how much money you have for your next purchase. It’s often less stressful financially – though it can make timing trickier. The pros:
- No double mortgage stress. You sell, then buy with a clear budget.
- Stronger financial footing. You’ll have your proceeds in hand for a down payment.
- Easier loan approval. Without existing debt, you may qualify for better mortgage terms.
The cons:
- Possible temporary housing. You might need a short-term rental or to stay with family between homes.
- Feeling rushed. The pressure to find your next home quickly can limit your options.
Smart solutions:
- Rent-back agreement: Negotiate with your buyer to stay in your home briefly after closing.
- Extended closing: Ask for a longer closing period (45-60 days) to buy you more time to house-hunt.
Which Is Right for You? If your local market is hot and competitive, selling first can be safer – homes tend to move quickly, and you’ll have cash ready to make a strong offer. If the market is balanced or slower, buying first may give you flexibility and better control over timing. Every market moves differently, so understanding local trends and preparing your finances in advance will help you make the best move with confidence.
Need Help Balancing Both? Whether you’re buying first or selling first, planning ahead makes all the difference. I can help you understand current market conditions and create a smooth, well-timed strategy for your next move – no juggling required. Let’s make your next move your best one.
Lighting Secrets That Make Your Home Feel Bigger, Warmer, and HappierAs the days get shorter, your home’s lighting starts doing a lot more than just helping you see. The right lighting can change the entire mood of your space – making it feel larger, cozier, and more inviting through the darker months. Here are a few simple, high-impact lighting ideas that can completely transform the way your home looks and feels this season.
Let Natural Light Work Harder Start with what you already have! Clean windows and light-colored curtains allow more daylight in – and daylight instantly makes a room feel larger and more alive. If your space doesn’t get much sun, try using mirrors to bounce natural light around. Placing one across from a window or near a doorway helps brighten even dim corners.
Pro tip: Replace heavy drapes with sheer or linen fabrics to let in more light without losing privacy. Layer Your Lighting Like a Designer Professional designers rarely rely on a single overhead light. Instead, they use a mix of:
- Ambient lighting (your main ceiling or recessed lights)
- Task lighting (lamps for reading, cooking, or working)
- Accent lighting (spotlights or sconces to highlight art or décor)
Combining these layers makes your home feel more balanced and intentional. It also helps eliminate harsh shadows that can make rooms feel smaller.
Pro tip: In living spaces, use at least three different light sources at varying heights for a warm, inviting glow. Choose Warm Over Cool Color temperature makes a big difference. “Warm white” bulbs (between 2700K-3000K) create a cozy, golden light – perfect for living rooms and bedrooms.
Cooler light (4000K and up) feels bright and crisp, great for kitchens, bathrooms, or home offices. Mixing these temperatures thoughtfully helps your home feel both functional and comfortable. Pro tip: Avoid bright white or blue-toned lights in relaxation zones – they can feel harsh and less welcoming.
Add Dimmers and Smart Controls Want instant mood lighting? Install dimmer switches or use smart bulbs you can adjust with your phone or voice assistant. Lowering lights in the evening helps you wind down – and can make your home feel instantly cozier. Pro tip: Dimmers aren’t just for ambiance – they can also save energy and extend bulb life. Don’t Forget the Details Small lighting touches can have a surprisingly big impact:
- Add under-cabinet lights in the kitchen for a professional look.
- Use LED strips behind headboards, TVs, or shelves for soft backlighting.
- Place candles or battery lanterns on tables for a warm, flickering glow.
These finishing touches make your home feel more personalized and visually layered – the secret to that “designer” look without the designer price tag. As winter approaches, great lighting isn’t just about seeing clearly – it’s about feeling better in your space. A few smart tweaks can make your home brighter, more comfortable, and more joyful all season long. If you’re thinking about refreshing your space before the holidays, I can help you identify easy updates that add both warmth and value to your home.
Written by Ben Bryk with Coldwell Banker Global Luxury
Click here for information about selling a luxury home or condo in Vero Beach or on Hutchison Island
