If you’re preparing to move, it’s natural to juggle a lot of decisions—timing, financing, logistics, and emotions. One of the most important strategic choices you can make is to sell your current home before moving into your next one. And while that may seem daunting, it could give you a major advantage—both in presentation and in your final sale price.

By Lynn Norusis
May 2025

An Empty House Is a Stager’s Dream

When your home is no longer lived in, having your home staged can design a look that appeals to the widest pool of buyers. Use neutral colors, strategic furniture layouts, and decor to highlight space, light, and functionality.

Even the best-decorated lived-in home competes with the presence of everyday life—pet beds, toothbrushes, laundry baskets, and furniture that works best for you, not necessarily for buyers. When a property is fully staged and you’re no longer living in it, every showing is a clean slate. Buyers can more easily imagine their lives unfolding in the space, and that emotional connection is what inspires stronger offers.

Staged Homes Sell Faster—and for More

Multiple studies have shown that professionally staged homes not only sell faster but also for higher prices. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that 81% of buyers’ agents say staging makes it easier for their clients to visualize the property as their future home. And a well-staged home can increase the dollar value offered by 1–5% on average.

That difference can mean thousands of extra dollars in your pocket—and more leverage in negotiations.

But Where Will You Go?

The biggest hesitation sellers have about moving out first is understandable: where will you live, and how do you afford the next home before yours is sold?

Enter the bridge loan. A bridge loan is a short-term financing tool that allows you to “bridge” the gap between buying your new home and selling your current one. You can use it to make a non-contingent offer on your next property while giving yourself time to sell your existing home properly—with vacant staging and all.

Here’s how it typically works:

• The bridge loan gives you access to the equity in your current home before it sells.

• You use those funds as the down payment (or full payment) on your new home.

• Once your current home sells, the proceeds go to paying off the bridge loan.

This type of financing gives you breathing room to move out before listing your home and buy confidently—without juggling back-to-back closings or temporary housing.

Bridge loans aren’t for everyone—they’re best suited for homeowners with substantial equity and solid credit. Interest rates are often higher than a traditional mortgage, and terms are usually 6–12 months. But for many sellers, the flexibility is well worth it. You avoid rushed decisions, increase your sale price potential, and reduce stress.

Your real estate agent and lender can help you assess your options and run the numbers. In some cases, a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) or even a temporary rental might make more sense.

Selling first and moving out may feel like a bold move, but it’s often the smartest one. A professionally staged, buyer-ready home is your strongest asset in today’s competitive market. Combine that with the right financial tools—like a bridge loan—and you give yourself the best shot at a smooth transition and a maximized return.

Thinking of making a move? Let’s talk about what’s possible for your timeline, your finances, and your goals.