Should I sell first or buy first in the Twin Cities market?
Answered by Chris Deutsch, Founder & Editor
Licensed Minnesota Realtor #20382264 ·
The short answer
In most Twin Cities markets in 2026, I recommend selling first. Here's why.
On stage The 60-second answer
Captions on · Transcript below
The stage is set.
Chris's video answer is on its way. Until then, the short answer above says the same thing.
The transcript posts with the video.
The longer answer
When to sell first (recommended):
- You know exactly what you can afford after the sale
- You're not desperate, so you negotiate better on the buy side
- You avoid carrying two mortgages
- You can use a rent-back to stay in your home while shopping
When to buy first (rare but valid):
- You found THE home and it won't wait
- You have the financial cushion to carry both payments
- Your current home is in a hot neighborhood and will sell quickly
- Interest rates are about to drop and you want to lock in
The uncomfortable truth: Buying first feels less stressful emotionally. You know where you're going before you leave where you are. But it's financially riskier. You're gambling that your current home sells quickly and at the price you expect.
Selling first feels more stressful — you might need temporary housing. But financially, it's the safer play. You know your numbers.
In 25 years, the clients who sold first had smoother transactions, less stress (overall), and better financial outcomes. The clients who bought first? Some did great. Others carried two mortgages for months they didn't expect.
The next department over
What people in this spot usually ask next.
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- Selling processWhat's the best time to sell my home in the Twin Cities?Read the answer
- Myth-busting & headline checksWhat's the Twin Cities real estate market like in 2026?Read the answer
- Investment propertiesIs Minneapolis a good market for real estate investing in 2026?Read the answer
- Buying processHow do I avoid inspection panic when buying a home in Minnesota?Read the answer
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.