Should You Sell First or Buy First in Inner City Calgary?

The honest answer: it depends.

Every homeowner faces this question at some point, and the truth is that both routes come with unique challenges, timing strategies, and advantages. Whether you’re thinking about selling your current Inner City Calgary home or buying your next one, your decision should depend on your comfort level, finances, and how competitive the market is when you’re ready to move.

 

 

Selling before buying can feel like a leap of faith. Questions often arise:

These are valid concerns and they’re ones I hear from my clients all the time. But here’s what I’ve found: selling first puts you into what I call “the moving mood.” When your current home is sold, you view potential properties through a much clearer lens. You start asking yourself the right questions, like, “Can I see myself living here?”, “Will our furniture fit in this space?”, “What will the holidays look like here?” It creates focus. It turns house hunting into an intentional mission instead of a casual search. If you want to make sure you find the right home in time, here’s a strategy that works incredibly well in the Inner City Calgary market:

 

In my career, I’ve never had a client follow this strategy and fail to find a home in time.

 

 

On the other hand, buying before selling can feel much calmer, especially if you’re financially comfortable or already own your home outright. This approach often takes 1–2 years (or longer) because you’re in no rush. You already have a roof over your head, so you can afford to wait for that perfect property to appear. That slower pace has its benefits. You can explore the market, watch for price adjustments, and move only when the right home truly speaks to you. If your current home is paid off, or if you have access to the funds to close on your next property, this can be a low-stress and flexible way to move up in the market.

 

 

The key is to look at your goals, timing, and comfort level. If you’re someone who thrives on clarity and momentum, selling first might be your best move. If you value flexibility and aren’t in a rush, buying first could make more sense. Every situation is unique, and that’s where working with an experienced Inner City Calgary realtor makes all the difference.

 

 

Both options can work beautifully when you plan ahead. Whether you decide to sell first or buy first, having a clear strategy, realistic timelines, and expert guidance will make the process far less stressful and much more rewarding.

 

-Written by Dylan Kisilowski

Inner-City Calgary Specialist | Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd.

 

I help people find the most effective and effortless way to buy or sell their Inner-City Calgary home. My mission is to give you the information, strategy, and confidence to make smart real estate decisions — whether you’re buying, selling, or investing in Calgary’s urban core.

 

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