7 Costly Mistakes People Make When Selling Their Home Before Buying (UK Edition)

7 Costly Mistakes People Make When Selling Their Home Before Buying (UK Edition)

If you're planning to sell your current home before buying your next, you're not alone. Many UK homeowners take this route to free up funds and make stronger offers — but it’s not without risk. From poor timing to financial miscalculations, these common mistakes can cost you thousands and derail your move. Let’s break down the biggest pitfalls to avoid.

1. Misjudging the Market Timing

📉 Mistake: Selling in a buyer’s market without securing your next property.
📈 Avoid it: Check local trends and speak with estate agents in both your current and target areas. If demand is low where you're selling but high where you're buying, you could be left chasing rising prices with a weaker budget.

2. Assuming You’ll Find a New Home Immediately

🏡 Mistake: Thinking you’ll have your pick of new homes straight after selling.
🗓️ Avoid it: Inventory can change fast. Have a clear idea of available properties and set realistic timeframes. Otherwise, you risk temporary accommodation and rushed decisions.

3. Not Calculating the True Cost of Renting in Between

💷 Mistake: Underestimating the cost (and hassle) of short-term rentals.
📦 Avoid it: Budget for moving twice, storage costs, and potential school or commute disruptions. It adds up quickly — often more than bridging the gap with a flexible mortgage.

4. Failing to Use a Move Budget Calculator

🧮 Mistake: Guessing instead of calculating your buying power after a sale.
💡 Avoid it: Use a tool like My Move Budget to factor in mortgage payoff, agent fees, stamp duty, and remaining equity so you can make confident decisions.

5. Ignoring the Risks of Property Chain Collapses

🔗 Mistake: Overlooking how fragile chains are when you sell before buying.
🚫 Avoid it: Chains often fall through due to finance, surveys, or cold feet. Prepare a backup plan and know that the longer the chain, the higher the risk.

6. Overvaluing Your Home

📊 Mistake: Listing at a high price based on emotion, not data.
🏘️ Avoid it: Get multiple valuations and check recent sold prices in your area. If your home lingers on the market, you may miss out on buying opportunities.

7. Not Getting an Agreement in Principle Before You Sell

🏦 Mistake: Assuming you'll be approved for the mortgage you want.
📋 Avoid it: Get an Agreement in Principle before listing your home. That way, you’ll know your budget and move quickly when you find the right property.

Ready to calculate your move?
Use our free UK move budget calculator to see exactly what you can afford when selling and buying at the same time.