Moving Up in Minnesota: Sell Your Home and Buy the Next One
Sell the home you have outgrown and buy the one you need, with both moves planned together.
When your home no longer fits your life
The home that was perfect a few years ago can start to feel small. Maybe your family has grown, you now work from home, or you are ready for a different community. Moving up means making two big decisions at once: selling the home you have and buying the one you need.
I'm Lesley, a REALTOR® with Bridge Realty, and we help Minnesota homeowners plan both moves together so neither one puts the other at risk.
How do I sell my house and buy another at the same time in Minnesota? Decide the order first: sell then buy, buy then sell, or close both together. Then confirm your budget with a lender, price your current home accurately, and build a timeline that connects the two closings.
Start with what your current home is worth
Your budget for the next home depends on the equity in this one. Before you shop, you need two numbers: what your home is likely to sell for, and what you would keep after your mortgage payoff and closing costs.
We prepare both for you at no cost. Start on our home value page, and read how we prepare and market a home on our selling your home page.
Three ways to time your move
- Sell first, then buy. You know your exact budget and you are a stronger buyer. You may need a short rental or an agreement to stay in your home briefly after closing.
- Buy first, then sell. You move once and take your time. You need the income and savings to carry two homes for a while, sometimes with a bridge loan or a home equity line.
- Buy with a contingency. Your offer depends on your current home selling. This protects you, though some sellers prefer offers without it, so we plan how to keep yours competitive.
The right choice depends on your finances and your comfort with risk. We review all three with your lender before you decide.
A refresher on buying, from a lender and us
It may have been a while since you last bought a home, and some things have changed. In this conversation, a lender and we walk through how buying works today, from financing to closing. It is a good refresher before you start.
Unlocking the Door to Your Dream Home. One note: buyer's agent compensation rules have changed since this was recorded. The home buying advice still applies, and we will explain how compensation works today when we talk.
Finding the home you will not outgrow
A move-up purchase should solve the problem that made you move. Before we tour homes, we write down what you need now and what you will need five years from now: bedrooms, a home office, a bigger yard, a shorter commute, or a different school district.
We also help you compare the real monthly cost of each home, including property taxes, which vary by city and county. You can read our full buying plan on our how we help buyers page and the steps of a purchase on our buying a home page.
Move-up homes across Minnesota
Many of our move-up clients look at Woodbury, Lake Elmo, Maple Grove, Plymouth, and Lakeville, where newer and larger homes are common. If you are considering building, bring us with you to the model home from your first visit, so someone is reviewing the builder's contract on your behalf.
Let's plan both moves together
Tell us about the home you have and the home you want. We will work out the numbers and the timing, and you will leave with a clear plan. No pressure and no obligation.
Send us a message or call (651) 661-4770. What questions do you have?
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I sell my house before I buy a bigger one?
Selling first gives you a firm budget and a stronger offer. Buying first means only one move but requires the finances to own two homes for a time. A lender can show you which options you qualify for.
What is a contingent offer?
It is an offer to buy a home that depends on your current home selling. It protects you from owning two homes, though some sellers prefer offers without that condition.
What is a bridge loan?
A bridge loan is short-term financing that lets you use the equity in your current home to buy the next one before the first has sold. Terms and costs vary, so compare options with your lender.
How much equity do I need to move up?
There is no single number. Your equity, savings, income, and the price of the next home all matter. We estimate your sale proceeds, and your lender shows what you can comfortably afford.
Can I use the same agent to sell and buy?
Yes, and it usually helps. One agent can coordinate both timelines, both negotiations, and both closings so the dates line up.
Move-Up Buyers by neighborhood
5.0 Stars From 101 Google Reviews
In their own words, from clients across Minnesota.
★★★★★
“If you're looking for a realtor who never gets tired of driving anywhere and at anytime to show you housing options, then call Lesley. I had a lot of questions as it was my first time buying a home. She always took her time to explain everything. She responded even at midnight and was never angry even when I called her at odd hours. She was so patient and I am glad she helped me bought my first home. I will recommend her over and over.”
★★★★★
“Working with our realtor, Lesley, was a great experience from start to finish. She was very knowledgeable, helpful, and always made sure we understood every step of the process. She answered our questions and truly looked out for our best interests when negotiating and reviewing details. Buying a home can be stressful, but they made the process smooth and much easier for us. I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking to buy or sell a home.”
★★★★★
“Lesley is an amazing and experienced realtor. I have worked with different realtors in the past and I'll confidently say Lesley is top notch! You can count on her truly fighting and representing you through the whole process. She makes the process almost seem effortless due to her knowledge and expertise. Hire Lesley and you won't regret!”
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Ready to make your move with Lesley The Realtor?