Can You Put in an Offer Before You’ve Sold?
It’s one of the most common questions we hear from homeowners: “Can I put in an offer on a new home before I’ve sold mine?”
The simple answer? No.
In most cases, agents and developers won’t accept an offer unless your current home is already sold or at least well into the sales process. You might be able to register your interest or ask to be kept in the loop, but when it comes to securing that dream property, a seller needs to see that you’re proceedable.
And that’s where many people feel stuck. You want to move forward, but your current home is holding you back. The key is to flip that timeline on its head: focus on selling well first, so you can buy with confidence.
Why You Need to Sell Before You Can Buy
From an agent’s perspective, it’s simple. A buyer who hasn’t sold yet represents uncertainty. There’s no guarantee of funds, no clear timeline, and a high risk of delays. In today’s fast-moving market, sellers are spoilt for choice — and they’ll always favour a buyer who’s ready to go.
Even developers of new-build properties follow the same rule. With demand high, they can’t afford to hold properties back for buyers who aren’t yet in a position to proceed.
That means if you’ve got your eye on a new home, the first hurdle is always the same: get your current property sold.
How Staging Speeds Things Up
Here’s the good news: whilst you can’t change the rules of the market, you can change how quickly and successfully your home sells.
That’s where staging comes in.
Staging isn’t just about making a home look pretty. It’s about presenting your property in the best possible light, so buyers immediately see its potential and start picturing their life there. That emotional connection is what gets homes off the market faster.
From rearranging furniture to highlight flow, to softening tired rooms with fresh accessories, to creating inviting photography that grabs attention online — staging is all about strategy. Done well, it reduces time on the market and maximises your selling power.
The Competitive Edge
Think of it this way: every day your home sits unsold is another day you can’t move forward. If the property you’ve fallen in love with is attracting interest, delays could cost you the chance entirely.
By staging, you’re not just speeding up the sale, you’re also strengthening your negotiating position. A proceedable buyer has leverage. They’re taken seriously. And they’re the ones who get their offers accepted.
Final Thoughts
The smarter move is to focus on selling your current home as quickly and effectively as possible. That way, when the right property comes along, you’re in the strongest position to act fast.
And that’s exactly what staging helps you achieve. By investing a little time and strategy upfront, you can unlock the door to your next home much sooner.
Ready to make your move? Get in touch with us today to see how staging can put you in the best position to secure your dream home.