The community wants a deposit before our house has even sold. How do people manage that?
Answered by Chris Deutsch, Founder & Editor
Licensed Minnesota Realtor #20382264 ·
The short answer
This sequencing problem is so common that tools exist for it. Communities often need a deposit, or a full entrance fee, while your money is still in the house. People bridge the gap a few ways. A home equity line opened before the house lists — lenders want you still living there, so the order matters. A short-term bridge loan. Or family help, documented cleanly so it doesn't tangle anything later.
On stage The 60-second answer
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The longer answer
Ask the community directly, too. Many offer their own bridge programs or will coordinate move-in timing with your sale — they want the move to work as much as you do. The sequence that keeps stress lowest: line up the bridge first, then list, then we time the closing to the move-in date instead of racing it.
Start with what the house will actually bring. I'll run that number first — just call.
The next department over
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From the editor's desk
“As Founder and Editor, I review, correct, and stand behind every answer.”
Is your situation more specific than the market? That's the one worth talking through.