Should You Buy First or Sell First on the Gold Coast?
If you’re thinking about making a move but not sure whether to sell your current home before buying the next one, or the other way around, you’re not alone.
This is one of the most common and emotionally charged questions Gold Coast homeowners face. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there is a way to figure out what’s right for you.
Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating, this decision comes with financial pressure, timing stress, and a whole lot of “what ifs.” That’s where a bit of clarity and guidance can make all the difference.
Why This Decision Feels So Hard
Buying and selling are two big life events, and when they’re happening at the same time, the pressure can double.
You might be worried about:
- Being left without a home if you sell first and can’t find the right place in time
- Owning two properties at once if you buy first and your home takes longer to sell
- Rushing into the wrong decision because the timing feels tight
- Juggling finances between deposits, bridging loans, and settlement dates
These are real concerns, and they deserve more than vague advice or guesswork. That’s why I’ve created this article to help.
What’s the Best Option Right Now?
That depends on a few things:
- Your financial situation: Do you need the equity from your sale to buy?
- The current market: Is it favouring sellers, buyers, or sitting somewhere in between?
- Your comfort with risk: Are you OK with owning two homes for a short time, or do you prefer playing it safe?
- Your personal plans: Do you have somewhere to go temporarily, like a rental or staying with family?
Most people find that once they look at the numbers, risks, and timing together, things get clearer. And that’s exactly what this guide helps you do.
The Ultimate Decision Guide: Buy or Sell First on the Gold Coast?
If you’re a Gold Coast homeowner thinking about selling, one of the first big questions you’ll face is this:
Do you sell your current home first… or buy your next one first?
This decision affects your stress levels, your bank account, and your timeline, so it pays to get it right. This guide is here to help you weigh it up clearly and calmly.
Quick Decision Flowchart
Start here for a rough idea of what may suit you best:
| ✅ Your Situation | 💡 Recommended Path |
| You need your sale proceeds to fund the next purchase | Sell first |
| You’ve found your dream home and can afford to move now | Buy first |
| You’re in a strong seller’s market with quick turnaround | Buy or Sell (flexible) |
| You’re risk-averse and want a safe path | Sell first |
| You can handle bridging finance and short-term pressure | Buy first |
Option 1: Sell First, Then Buy
Pros
- You’ll know exactly how much money you have to work with.
- No risk of paying two mortgages at once.
- More negotiating power when buying (you’re not under pressure).
Cons
- You may need temporary housing if your next home isn’t ready.
- Can feel rushed if you haven’t found a new place before settlement.
- The market might shift between your sale and your purchase.
Local Insight:
With high demand in many suburbs, some sellers are negotiating longer settlements or rent-back options while they shop for their next home.
Option 2: Buy First, Then Sell
Pros
- You can take your time to find the right next home.
- No need to move twice.
- You may be able to secure a good buy before prices rise further.
Cons
- You’ll likely need bridging finance or equity from another source.
- Carrying two properties temporarily adds financial pressure.
- Risk if your current home takes longer to sell than expected.
Local Insight:
Buy-first can work well in slower selling areas or if you’ve built significant equity over time.
Financial Questions to Ask
Before choosing your path, check these:
- Can I afford to own two homes short-term?
- Do I have enough deposit saved without needing sale proceeds?
- What will bridging finance cost me, and is it worth it?
- How much equity do I have in my current home?
Real-World Risk Scenarios
| Scenario | Risk | Solution |
| Your home takes longer than expected to sell | Financial stress if you’ve already bought | Flexible settlement, realistic pricing, short-term rental plan |
| You sell but can’t find a new place in time | Temporary housing needed | Rent-back agreement or short lease |
| You buy and the market dips before you sell | Equity loss | Strong marketing, fast and well-priced sale |
Local Insight to Make It Work Either Way
- Talk to your mortgage broker early. Understand your loan and finance options.
- Get an appraisal for your current home so you know your ballpark market value.
- Keep timelines flexible. Extended settlements can be a powerful negotiation tool.
- Work with a good agent who understands both ends. You want someone who gets the full picture, not just the sale.
Not Sure? Let’s Talk It Through
There’s no pressure to decide today. Sometimes, a 15-minute chat is all it takes to clear the fog.
I’m happy to help you work through your next steps, even if you’re just in the early stages of thinking.
Author – Craig Douglas
Please Note: The information contained in this document is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The laws and regulations governing the sale of property in Queensland are complex and constantly changing. It is important to seek the advice of a qualified property lawyer or conveyancer before making any decisions about the sale of your property. This document does not take into account your individual circumstances and may not apply to your situation. By reading this document you agree that you have not relied on the information contained herein and that you will seek independent legal advice before taking any action.
Are you ready for a casual chat?
Let’s get you Selling
LET’S GET YOU SOLD!
Phone me now, Craig Douglas 0418 189 963
Professional | Knowledgeable | Experienced
Some of the suburbs that I proudly sell homes in:
Bilinga
This page was proudly created by Craig Douglas, your local independent Gold Coast real estate agent, working for a Boutique Real Estate Agency. Selling residential and commercial properties, from those that are awe-inspiring, through to a diamond-in-the-rough, otherwise known as a “renovator’s delight“.
I negotiate and sell on behalf of property owners who want to get the best possible price, with the least amount of hassle. Let’s talk about the process of selling your property over a coffee to get you started – 0418 189 963
