It’s one of the biggest timing questions in real estate: Do you buy your next home before selling your current one? In Portland’s still-competitive 2025 market, here’s what to consider.
Why Some Portland Buyers Choose to Buy First
Buying before selling can offer serious convenience — especially if you’re trying to avoid temporary housing or double moves. For families with school or job transitions, or for anyone with tight timing, buying first can reduce stress. It also gives you time to shop intentionally, rather than feeling rushed to make an offer under pressure.
The Risk? Carrying Two Mortgages
Of course, the tradeoff is financial. If your current home doesn’t sell quickly, you could be on the hook for two mortgage payments — something few budgets can sustain for long. With July’s market showing an average 52 days on market and inventory climbing to 3.7 months (RMLS, July 2025), it’s taking a bit longer for homes to sell compared to earlier this year.
What Portland Sellers Are Doing in 2025
Sellers are adapting. We’re seeing more contingent offers being accepted — especially on homes that have been sitting for 30+ days. The key is working with an agent who can write strong, well-structured contingencies and prep your home to list immediately after you go pending on the buy side.
Bridge Loans, Leasebacks, and Other Solutions
Not sure how to time it all? There are tools to help. A bridge loan can help cover the gap if your equity is tied up. Or, if the buyer for your current home is flexible, a rent-back agreement can let you stay in your home for 30–60 days after closing while you close on your next place.
So…Should You Buy or Sell First?
It depends on your finances, your timeline, and what’s happening in your micro-market. In Portland right now, sellers still have leverage — but buyers have options. A strategy session can help you decide whether buying first makes sense or if you’re better off selling and renting short-term to shop without pressure.