When buying or selling property in Darwin, there is no single ‘right way’ to move home. Every situation is different, and both options come with their own advantages and disadvantages. It truly is a real “chicken or egg” scenario. You need to carefully consider your unique circumstances, financial position, and the current Darwin real estate market.

Your choice of real estate agent in Darwin and conveyancer will have a direct impact on how smooth and successful your move is. As a trusted local expert, Umesh Patel helps many buyers and sellers navigate this exact decision. So, should you:

1. Buy first (if you have the financial means) and hope for a successful sale of your existing home?
    
2. Sell first, move into rental accommodation, and then look for your next home?
    
3. Make an offer with contingencies and hope the vendor accepts it while you organise your sale?
    

Let’s break down your options.

Should You Buy Before Selling?

If you have the financial ability to purchase your next home without immediately needing to sell your current one, you’re in a fortunate position. Many clients working with real estate agents in Darwin, Australia, prefer this option because:

It is the least stressful way to buy and sell.
 

You can take your time to find the right property in Darwin.
 

You can ensure you are both buying well and selling well.
 

You avoid rushing your sale simply because you’ve already committed to a new property.
 

However, make sure you’re aware of the tax implications of owning a second property that is not your principal place of residence.

Should You Sell Before Buying?

This is the most common approach and one that many professionals—including myself at Sell with Umesh Patel—often recommend depending on your circumstances. Selling first can provide:

• A stronger position when making offers on a new home.
   
• More confidence and clarity about your exact buying budget.
   
• A clean, non-contingent offer that sellers prefer.
   

But it also comes with potential downsides, such as:

• Having to move into temporary rental accommodation.
   
• Facing rising prices if you wait too long to buy again.
   
• The emotional stress of not knowing how long it will take to find your next property.
   

Still, for buyers in the Darwin property market, selling first often makes negotiations much easier.

Making an Offer Before Selling Your Current Home

This option can be appealing but can also be risky. In many cases—especially in a strong seller’s market in Darwin—vendors may not even consider offers that are contingent on you selling your current home.

Potential downsides include:

• Higher stress levels.
   
• Tighter deadlines on your sale.
   
• Risk of losing your dream home to a non-contingent buyer.
   

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there is no universally correct choice when it comes to buying or selling property in Darwin. What matters is choosing the approach that aligns with your financial situation, timing, and stress tolerance.

Working with an experienced real estate agent in Darwin NT, like Umesh Patel, ensures you have expert guidance tailored to your personal circumstances.