If you're thinking about selling your home and buying a new one at the same time, you're in good company. Many people who are moving to or within St. Augustine, Florida find themselves juggling this dual real estate transaction—and let’s face it, it can be overwhelming.
But here’s the good news: with the right approach, it’s absolutely manageable. Whether you're moving to St. Augustine FL, St. Johns County, or already living in St. Augustine, having a solid strategy and the right team on your side can make all the difference.
Why One Realtor Makes All the Difference
Working with one experienced realtor who manages both your sale and purchase streamlines everything. It eliminates the confusion of juggling two agents, two strategies, and often conflicting schedules. Whether you're selling a home in St. Johns County Florida or exploring homes for sale in St. Augustine FL, one point of contact keeps everything efficient and less chaotic.
A single, skilled agent sees the whole picture—your financial timeline, your lifestyle goals, and your preferred neighborhoods in Saint Augustine Florida or nearby communities.
Communication: Your Secret Weapon
Clear communication is the linchpin of any real estate transaction, but it's absolutely essential when you're managing two at once. From lenders and title companies to inspectors and movers, all parties need to be in sync.
For example, your lender must know exactly when your current home will close to ensure your financing is ready for the new property. If you're going for a same-day closing—selling your home in the morning and buying your next in the afternoon—everyone from the title company to your movers must be ready.
Timing Your Sale and Purchase
In an ideal world, your existing home would go under contract, then you’d immediately get your next home under contract, and both would close on the same day. But real estate is rarely perfect.
Delays, inspection issues, or financing snags can throw off the timeline. That’s why it's essential to prepare for flexibility. Explore the market before listing your home so you know what to expect. If you're moving to St. Augustine Florida, get familiar with current St. Augustine real estate trends and inventory.
Protect Yourself With Strategic Contingencies
One of the smartest tools you can use is the “suitable housing contingency,” which allows you to accept an offer on your home but hold off finalizing the sale until you've secured your next home.
Another option is a leaseback agreement, where you remain in your sold home temporarily and pay rent to the new owner. This is particularly helpful in St. Johns County, where homes are moving fast but finding your next one may take a little time.
If your finances permit, a bridge loan is also worth considering. It gives you the ability to purchase your next home before selling your current one. A knowledgeable St. Augustine realtor can connect you with trusted local lenders to explore your options.
Making Competitive Offers as a Contingent Buyer
When buying contingent on the sale of your current home, your offer will naturally carry some weight of uncertainty. To make it more appealing:
- Consider submitting an "as-is" offer.
- Shorten the inspection period.
- Waive the appraisal if financially feasible.
- Align with the seller’s preferred closing timeline.
The key is to have your existing home under contract and ready to close—this gives sellers confidence that your transaction will proceed smoothly.
One Move, Many Moving Parts
Yes, selling and buying a home simultaneously is complex. But it’s far from impossible—especially when guided by a trusted, communicative, and local expert.
If you’re planning on moving to St. Augustine FL, or you're already living in St. Augustine Florida and looking to upgrade or downsize, you need someone who understands both sides of the equation. One skilled realtor can turn a complicated process into a smooth journey.
Ready to Make Your Move?
Whether you’re relocating, upsizing, or downsizing, let’s talk. I’m here to help you sell your current home and find your dream home in Saint Augustine FL—all with clarity, confidence, and calm.
📞 Contact the best realtor in Saint Augustine, the Kim Devlin Team to schedule your free strategy session and let’s map out your move!