Can You Buy a New Home Before Selling Your Current One?

Learn three key strategies to buy your next home before selling your current one—without the stress of double mortgages.

In an ideal world, the sale of your old home would line up perfectly with the purchase of your new one. But in reality, real estate transactions don’t always go that smoothly. You might find your dream home before your current one sells—or worse, sell your home and have nowhere to go. So, can you buy a new home before selling your current one? The short answer is yes, but it requires careful planning. Let’s explore your options.

1. Sale contingencies and delayed closings. One option is adding a sale contingency to your contract, meaning your new home purchase depends on selling your current home first. This protects you from being stuck with two mortgages, but in a competitive market, sellers may prefer non-contingent offers. Another approach is negotiating a delayed closing, giving you extra time to sell while still securing your new home. Your agent can help structure this to your advantage.

2. Bridge loans and rent-back agreements. If you need financial flexibility, a bridge loan can cover the gap between buying and selling, allowing you to make a strong, non-contingent offer. Just keep in mind that bridge loans usually come with higher interest rates and shorter terms. Another strategy is a rent-back agreement, where you sell your current home but stay in it temporarily, paying rent to the new owner while you finalize your next move.

"Buying before selling works with planning, smart financing, and the right strategy."

3. Explore alternative solutions. If those options don’t work, there are other creative ways to make the transition smoother. Companies like Flyhomes, Orchard, and Knock offer programs that help you buy before you sell. You could also consider renting out your current home for passive income or selling to an iBuyer for a fast, cash transaction. However, keep in mind that convenience often comes at a lower sale price.

While buying before selling can be convenient, it’s not always the best financial move. Carrying two mortgages at once or relying on a quick home sale can be risky. That’s why working with an experienced real estate agent is crucial—they can help you navigate the market and find the best approach for your situation.

If you're considering buying a new home before selling your current one, let’s talk. I’ll walk you through your options and help you make the best decision based on your unique situation. Schedule a call today, and let’s create a strategy that works for you!

How Can You Stage Your Home While Living in It?

Learn my best tips for staging while still living in your home, like ‘pre-moving,’ creating a showroom feel, and more.

Selling your home while you’re still living in it might sound tricky, but it’s doable with the right strategy. After all, it pays to do a little work before you list your house–whether you’re still living in it or not. Did you know that staged homes sell 13% faster and can even bring in higher offers? With a few adjustments, you can create a space that feels fresh, inviting, and buyer-friendly while still enjoying your daily routine. As a professional real estate agent, I help homeowners like you sell faster and for top dollar—even while living in the home. Let’s go over some smart, doable steps to stage your home effectively without disrupting your life:

1. Declutter and pack early. Think of it as pre-moving. Pack away seasonal clothes, personal photos, and anything you don’t use daily. This makes your space feel bigger, cleaner, and move-in ready for buyers. Plus, it reduces last-minute stress when it’s time to move. Buyers will also find it easier to envision themselves living in the home.

2. Deep clean and maintain your home. A spotless home makes a huge first impression. After a deep clean, keep things easy with a simple daily routine—wipe counters, put dishes away, and keep floors clear. A little effort each day prevents last-minute stress before a showing.

"By staging smartly while still living in your home, you’ll attract more buyers, sell faster, and maximize your sale price without turning your daily life upside down."

3. Create a showroom feel. Buyers love neutral, airy spaces. Swap out bold bedding or décor for light, inviting colors. Keep furniture arranged to make rooms feel open and welcoming. If you have kids or pets, store away extra toys and supplies to keep things tidy.

4. Make a ‘showing-ready’ checklist. Before leaving for work or errands, do a quick 5-minute sweep: this involves making the beds, wiping the kitchen counters, putting away daily clutter, opening up your blinds for natural light, and setting the thermostat to a comfortable temperature. That way, your home is always ready when a buyer comes by.

5. Plan for showings in advance. It’s best to leave the house during showings so buyers can explore comfortably. Have a go-to plan—maybe a park visit, a coffee shop break, or running errands—so it’s easy to head out whenever needed. Keep a small bag ready with essentials like snacks, chargers, and activities for kids or pets. The more prepared you are, the less stressful last-minute showings will feel.

By staging smartly while still living in your home, you’ll attract more buyers, sell faster, and maximize your sale price without turning your daily life upside down. If you want more tips on preparing your home for a top-dollar sale, let’s chat! Just call or email me with any questions. I look forward to hearing from you!

What’s the Best Way To Find Out Your Home’s True Value?

 

Learn how to find out your home’s true value, from simple solutions like online valuations to more involved strategies like comparative market analysis.

Ever wonder how much your home is actually worth? Whether you're thinking about selling, refinancing, or just curious, knowing your home’s true value is essential. But here’s the issue—many homeowners rely on the wrong sources and leave money on the table.

Most people turn to quick online estimates, but those tools can be off by tens of thousands of dollars. If your home is priced too high, buyers may overlook it. Price it too low, and you’re walking away from potential profit. And when refinancing, an inaccurate valuation could mean missing out on thousands in equity. So, how do you ensure you’re working with the right number? Having helped countless homeowners maximize their home’s value, I can tell you this: understanding your home’s worth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about making informed financial decisions. There are three key ways to determine your home’s true value:

1. Comparative market analysis. This is a professional assessment done by a real estate expert—like me! A CMA compares your home to similar recently sold homes in your area, factoring in size, features, location, and market trends. It’s free and far more accurate than online tools.

"Websites like Zillow and Redfin provide quick estimates, but you shouldn’t rely on them alone."

2. Professional appraisal. A licensed appraiser provides an unbiased valuation, often required for refinancing or loans. They assess your home’s condition, upgrades, and market comps. It’s the most precise method but comes at a cost of a few hundred dollars.

3. Online valuation tools and research. Websites like Zillow and Redfin provide quick estimates, but you shouldn’t rely on them alone. Cross-check multiple sources and look at recently sold homes that closely match yours for a more accurate picture.

Which is the best option for you? If you’re selling, a CMA gives you an accurate market value. If you’re refinancing, an appraisal is necessary. And if you’re just curious, online tools can be a starting point—but always verify with expert insight. If you’re thinking of selling or refinancing and want a precise, expert-backed valuation, let’s talk. I offer a free, no-obligation home valuation to help you make the best decision. Just call or email me to get started.

What Do Home Sellers Need To Reveal in Disclosures?

 

Going over everything you need to disclose when selling your home, from location-specific information, material defects, and more.

Are you selling your home this year? If so, you’ve probably wondered what exactly you need to disclose to potential buyers. Seller disclosures are more important than ever in 2025, and understanding them is key to avoiding legal headaches and closing deals quickly. Transparency isn’t just a courtesy—it’s a necessity if you want to be legally protected. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about seller disclosures to ensure a smooth and successful home sale:

1. Material defects. As a seller, you’re required to disclose any known material defects that could impact your property’s value or safety. This includes issues like foundational cracks, roof leaks, or pest infestations. Even if you’ve repaired these problems, it’s essential to disclose them. Buyers need a full picture of the property’s history so they can make informed decisions. Transparency builds trust with buyers and helps prevent disputes later on. If they discover hidden issues after the sale, it could lead to legal challenges that no one wants.

2. Repairs and property condition. Whether it’s structural problems, plumbing repairs, or past flooding, sellers must document and disclose these issues even if they’ve already been resolved. Buyers have a right to know what they’re walking into. By being upfront about the property’s condition and repair history, you’re not just protecting yourself from future complications; you’re also showing buyers that you’ve taken proper care of the home. Honesty here can go a long way in building trust and confidence.

"Good lighting creates a cozy atmosphere and lets the best features of your house shine."

3. Environmental and neighborhood factors. Disclosures go beyond your home’s four walls. Sellers are also responsible for sharing information about the surrounding environment. This could include things like being in a flood zone, nearby industrial activity, or contaminated soil. It’s also a good idea to let buyers know about neighborhood-specific concerns. Providing this context allows buyers to make an informed decision and shows that you’re committed to transparency, which can set the tone for a positive and cooperative transaction.

The golden rule of seller disclosures is simple: when in doubt, disclose. Failing to do so could result in costly legal issues that are both time-consuming and stressful. If you’re unsure about what needs to be disclosed or have other questions about selling your home, I’m here to help. Feel free to reach out by phone or email to make your selling process smooth and stress-free. Transparency is the foundation of a successful sale, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

How Can You Make Your Home Irresistible to Buyers?

 

Enhance your curb appeal, declutter and depersonalize, and highlight your home’s key features to have a faster and more profitable home sale.

Looking to sell your house soon but don’t know how to get it ready for the market? Selling your home can feel like a big undertaking, but with the right preparation, you can make it stand out and attract the perfect buyer. These three essential tips will help you get your home ready for a successful sale and leave buyers impressed from the moment they arrive:

1. Enhance curb appeal. First impressions matter, and curb appeal is where it all begins. When potential buyers pull up to your home, the exterior sets the tone for their entire visit. Even small details work together to create an inviting first impression. You don’t need to go all out—simple updates can make a big impact. Mow the lawn, plant some vibrant flowers, or touch up peeling paint on the front door. If it’s winter, keep walkways clear and add cozy seasonal touches like a wreath or warm lighting. The goal is to show buyers that your home is well-loved and ready to welcome its next owner.

2. Declutter and depersonalize. Your goal should be to make it as easy as possible for buyers to envision themselves living in your space when they walk inside. but that’s hard to do if rooms feel crowded or overly personal. Start decluttering by removing extra furniture and boxing up items you don’t use often. Less is more when it comes to preparing your home for sale—you want it to feel spacious and inviting, not cramped. Next, depersonalize the space and take down family photos, bold artwork, or unique collections. This doesn’t mean erasing your personality—it’s about creating a blank canvas where buyers can imagine their own lives. Finally, take time for a deep clean. Pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms, as these high-traffic areas often leave the biggest impression. A spotless home signals that it’s been well-maintained and move-in ready for your buyers.

"Good lighting creates a cozy atmosphere and lets the best features of your house shine."

3. Highlight key features. Think about what makes your property special—whether it’s a spacious kitchen, a cozy living room, or beautiful natural light streaming through large windows. It might be worth it to consider some light staging to get your house in the best shape possible. Rearrange furniture to improve flow and maximize space, even if it’s as simple as moving a couch or removing an extra chair. Lighting is also critical; it creates a cozy atmosphere and lets the best features of your house shine. Even small updates, like fresh neutral paint or modern cabinet handles, can make your home feel updated and move-in ready.

At the end of the day, selling your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By enhancing curb appeal, decluttering and depersonalizing, and highlighting your home’s key features, you can create a space that buyers will fall in love with. If you have questions about getting your home ready for the market or anything else, please call or email me. I am always willing to help!

If you have any questions, you can reach me at (978) 852-3001 or PBrouillette@LaerRealty.com. You can also visit our website at www.homesareus.com.  I’ll guide you every step of the way right to the closing table.

10 Proven Tips To Succeed in Buying Your Dream Home

Learn how to secure your dream home by keeping your finances intact.

How can you increase your chances of getting your dream home? Buying a house is a big decision, which is why it’s important to be prepared. Today, I’ll share 10 pro tips for a smooth home-buying experience:

This conference is special because Mike Ferry is going to be celebrating 50 years in the residential real estate coaching and training industry. I’ve worked with Mike for the past 30 years and have seen firsthand the value of partnering with a Mike Ferry-trained agent. Here are 10 reasons why you should consider working with one:

1. Get pre-approved. Before you start shopping for homes, get pre-approved by a reputable lender. This step will help you determine your budget by identifying your maximum and minimum price range based on your income and expenses.

2. Work with a buyer’s agent. Work with a buyer's agent like myself. An experienced agent will protect your interests and help you avoid buying a home in the wrong neighborhood.

3. Save for closing costs. Set aside funds for closing costs because these expenses can add up quickly. Including this in your budget will ease your mind.

4. Keep your job. Try to keep your job and avoid switching to self-employment during this time. Changing your job can affect your pre-approval for a mortgage and make it harder to secure financing.

5. Avoid big purchases. Hold off on large purchases, like a new car, until after you’ve settled into your new home.

"Every dollar counts as you prepare to purchase a home."

6. Don’t dip into savings. Avoid using savings or credit cards for non-essential purchases. It's important to keep your finances in check during this period.

7. Resist impulsive buys. Stay strong against impulse buys. Every dollar counts as you prepare to purchase a home.

8. Consult with your lender. To maintain a stable financial profile, always check with your lender before making any large withdrawals from your accounts.

9. Stick with your bank. Don’t change your bank accounts while buying a home. Lenders like consistency, so keep what you have.

10. Avoid co-signing loans. Don’t co-sign loans for anyone, no matter the reason. It can affect your financial stability and jeopardize your ability to secure a mortgage.

Maintaining consistency is important to successfully get your dream home. If you're ready to make one of the biggest decisions of your life, let's connect. Reach me at (978) 852-3001 or PBrouillette@LaerRealty.com. You can also visit our website at www.homesareus.com.  I can help guide you every step of the way right to the closing table.

Top 10 Qualities You Should Look for in a Real Estate Agent

Learn the top reasons to work with a seasoned real estate agent.

Are you looking for an agent who is honest, competent & professional when it comes to handling real estate deals? This week, I’m excited to attend a real estate conference in Palm Desert, California, with my son Liam and 3,000 of the top real estate professionals from around the world.

This conference is special because Mike Ferry is going to be celebrating 50 years in the residential real estate coaching and training industry. I’ve worked with Mike for the past 30 years and have seen firsthand the value of partnering with a Mike Ferry-trained agent. Here are 10 reasons why you should consider working with one:

1. Honesty in all transactions. I’ll always give you an honest assessment of your home’s value based on the current market and comparable sales.

2. Market expertise. I’m a market expert, studying the market statistics daily to stay informed.

3. Active buyer and seller engagement. I aggressively search for buyers and sellers for my listings, dedicating two to three hours each day to this effort.

4. Strong communication. I keep you updated with feedback from buyers and their agents about your property.

"I invest in my training to provide you with the best results possible."

5. Defined action plan. I have a clear plan to sell your home, maintaining a rigorous schedule and tracking my progress every day.

6. Negotiation skills. I use my negotiation skills to get you the best possible price for your home, ensuring you get the value you deserve.

7. Great network. I’m connected to a network of top, highly trained real estate professionals in North America, which helps generate leads for your property. This network of agents can refer their buyer clients to our neighborhood in Massachusetts.

8. Weekly coaching and strategic planning. I work with my coach weekly to develop strategies that can help you achieve the highest sale price for your property in the shortest time.

9. Continuous improvement. I’m always improving my skills, attending at least four training and coaching events each year from my field's best real estate coaching and training organization.

10. Committed to being an excellent agent. I am committed to becoming a great salesperson. I invest $12,000 yearly in my coaching and training to ensure I can provide the best possible service. 

Do you have any questions about real estate sales or purchases or the market? Feel free to reach out to me at (978) 852-3001 or PBrouillette@LaerRealty.com. You can also visit our website at www.homesareus.com. I'll be more than happy to help you out.

What Is the Best Time of Year To Sell My Home?

How you can prepare for the spring market by planning ahead, budgeting your time, and getting in early.

As a real estate agent, one of the most common questions I get from potential home sellers is, “When is the best time of year to sell my home?” The truth is that the best time to sell is when you need to move; however, if you’re determined to try and time the market, the best time to sell is when you have the least amount of competition. In most markets, that means selling in late winter or early spring. Once spring hits, inventory increases rapidly, and you’ll have to compete with tons of other homeowners. If you truly want to hit the optimal selling window in late winter or early spring, here are three key things you need to consider:

1. Plan early. The more time you give yourself to plan out your home sale, the better. Getting your home ready for the market might involve a lot more work than you thought of beforehand, so don’t procrastinate. I recommend giving yourself a three to four months headstart before you list for things like pre-listing consultations, staging, repairs, and more. If you want to sell at the optimal time in late winter or early spring, that means you need to start these things as soon as possible.

"Get ahead of things by listing as early as you reasonably can."

2. Budget your time. It can take 60 to 120 days to sell your home once you list it, but many homeowners still have a mentality leftover from the pandemic market, when homes would sell in as little as a week. That’s why I recommend working with your agent to plan out what you need to do to hit the optimal selling window. Once you have a schedule, it will be easier to budget your time and sell at the perfect moment. 3. Beat your competition to the market. If you have a choice between listing earlier or later, list earlier. Once the spring frenzy hits, supply increases exponentially each month. All those sellers are competition that will make it harder for you to get the best deal possible, so try your best to beat them to the market. It’s tempting to wait for prices to increase as demand picks up, but this isn’t a good strategy. By the time you enter the market, you’ll be chasing a wave of demand that has already passed. Instead, get ahead of things by listing as early as you reasonably can. If you want to sell this spring and get the best deal possible, your first step should be to have a pre-listing meeting. Just call or email me, and we’ll go over your situation, your goals, the market, and more. It’s 100% free and no obligation. I look forward to hearing from you