Should I sell my house before I buy the smaller one?

Selling first before buying a smaller home protects a household from carrying two mortgages at once and gives a clearer, cash-in-hand budget for the next purchase, though it can mean a temporary move if the timing does not line up. Buying first keeps a household from needing temporary housing but risks a bridge loan or a contingent offer that some sellers will not accept. Brian Beatty sequences both sides of the move to minimize the gap either way.