Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or relocating to a new area, trying to buy and sell a home at the same time can feel overwhelming.

But with the right strategy, this transition can be smooth, well-timed, and financially smart.

As a Calgary-based REALTOR® who regularly helps clients move between homes, I’ve developed a proven step-by-step process that removes the guesswork—and minimizes the stress.

🧠 Step 1: Start With the Sale (Even Before You Buy)

Most people want to find their next dream home before listing their current one.

But in most cases, I recommend the opposite:

Prepare your current home first.

We’ll get your property photo-ready, either go live or prep it behind the scenes so that we can hit the ground running when the timing aligns.

Why?

Because knowing what your current home will sell for—and how quickly—gives you the confidence and leverage you need when you’re ready to buy.

💰 Step 2: Understand Your Financing Options

Talk to your mortgage broker early about how you’ll manage the financial overlap. Options may include:

• Bridge financing (most common)

• Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)

• Extended possession dates on your sale or purchase

• Conditional offers based on your home’s sale

Every situation is different. That’s why I work closely with your lender to structure a strategy that protects your budget and avoids financial pressure.

📝 Step 3: Protect Yourself With the Right Offer Conditions

When it’s time to write an offer on your new home, we’ll include terms that keep your transition safe and realistic. That may include:

• Condition for the sale of your home

• Flexible possession timelines

• Early access for measurements or contractor quotes

I help you negotiate a timeline that aligns with your goals—whether you’re trying to avoid moving twice or need extra time for possession.

🔄 Step 4: Always Have a Backup Plan (Just in Case)

Even with the best strategy, it’s smart to have a short-term backup plan. This might mean:

• Arranging temporary housing

• Securing storage for your belongings

• Pre-booking movers or rental options

I help clients plan for all scenarios so nothing catches you off guard—even if we need to adjust the timeline last-minute.

🤝 Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone in This

Buying and selling at the same time can be complex, but with the right guidance, it's entirely doable. I’ve helped countless Calgary-area clients manage this transition smoothly—without panic selling or panic buying.

If you're thinking about making a move, the earlier we plan, the more confident you'll feel.

📩 DM me “PLAN” and I’ll send you my Buying & Selling Strategy Guide—a free checklist that outlines the key steps, financing questions to ask, and real-life examples of how we make it work.

Let’s get you moved—without the chaos.

Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.

Buying a new build is exciting, but if you also have a home to sell, the process can become a bit more complex. From timing your sale to managing financial risks, there’s a lot to consider—especially with the unique timelines involved in new builds. Here’s what you need to know to navigate this process smoothly and protect your investment.

Understand the Timing Challenges

1. Spec Homes (Quick Possession Homes)
If you’re purchasing a spec home, the timeline is typically shorter—anywhere from immediate possession to 3–6 months. This makes coordinating the sale of your current home a bit easier, as possession dates are more predictable.

2. Custom-Built Homes
With custom builds, the timeline is much longer (8–18 months), and the possession date is often approximate until the builder provides a final notice. Most builders only give a 30-day notice of possession, meaning you’ll need to be prepared to act quickly. If you’re relying on the sale of your current home to fund your new purchase, you’ll need to list and sell your home within that 30-day window. This adds urgency to the process, making it crucial to work with a REALTOR® who can help you plan effectively.

Plan for Market Risks

The real estate market can shift significantly over the 8–18 months of a custom build timeline. Here’s how to mitigate potential risks:

• Evaluate Market Trends: Work with your REALTOR® to understand current and projected market conditions.

• Be Conservative with Value Assumptions: Don’t rely on today’s high market value to remain unchanged—plan for potential fluctuations.

• Have a Backup Plan: Be prepared to adjust your strategy if the market changes unexpectedly, whether it’s selling sooner or exploring bridge financing.

Consider Bridge Financing

Bridge financing can be an effective solution for buyers who need equity from their current home to complete the purchase of their new build. This short-term loan allows you to buy the new home while waiting for your current home to sell. Your REALTOR® and mortgage broker can guide you in evaluating whether this option is suitable for your financial situation.

Strategic Timing for Selling Your Current Home

Timing the sale of your current home depends on your individual circumstances and the builder’s timeline:

• Selling Early: Listing your home well before your new build is complete gives you more control over the sale process but may require temporary housing.

• Selling Closer to Possession: Waiting until the builder provides the 30-day possession notice may minimize disruption, but it’s risky if your home doesn’t sell quickly.

Your REALTOR® can help you decide the best timing strategy based on your needs and market conditions.

Account for GST on New Builds

New builds are subject to GST (5% in Alberta), which many buyers overlook. Depending on the builder, GST may or may not be included in the advertised price. Be sure to confirm this detail and budget accordingly. A knowledgeable REALTOR® can help ensure you’re fully informed of all costs.

Work with a REALTOR® for a Seamless Process

Managing the sale of your current home while buying a new build requires careful coordination. A REALTOR® will:

• Analyze market trends to help you price your current home competitively.

• Provide guidance on timing your sale to align with your builder’s timeline.

• Help you navigate the 30-day possession notice and act quickly to list and sell your home if needed.

• Offer strategies like bridge financing and temporary housing options.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home while buying a new build can be a challenging process, but with the right planning and a trusted REALTOR® by your side, it’s manageable. By preparing for market risks, timing your sale strategically, and understanding the 30-day possession notice, you can confidently transition into your new home.

Have questions or need help navigating this process? I’d love to assist! Let’s work together to create a plan that ensures your new build journey is smooth and successful.

Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.