Your money questions – ‘How long will it take to sell our house and get a new mortgage so we can move?’

Published on April 4, 2026

Navigating the process of selling your current home while securing a new mortgage for a freshly built one can be a delicate balancing act, especially when timings are tight. The key is careful planning and understanding the typical timelines involved in both selling your property and obtaining financing.

Firstly, it’s essential to have a clear idea of when you need to sell your current house. With new homes expected to be ready at the end of this year or early next year, you should start preparing to list your home as soon as possible. In many markets, the selling process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on various factors such as local demand, market conditions, and the overall appeal of your property.

Once your home is listed, you can expect viewings, negotiations, and the sale process to unfold, which may take about 30 to 60 days, depending on buyer interest and mortgage approvals. It is advisable to work with a real estate agent who can guide you through pricing strategies and marketing efforts that can expedite the sale.

Simultaneously, it’s wise to start evaluating your mortgage options early. This means contacting lenders to discuss your qualification for a new mortgage based on the sale of your current home. Many buyers tend to apply for a mortgage while their home is on the market, allowing them to streamline the purchase of the new property once they receive an acceptable offer on their current home.

You can also consider obtaining a mortgage in principle, which provides a clearer picture of how much you can borrow and can strengthen your position as a buyer when negotiating on your future home.

Regarding the deposit for the new house, developers typically require a reservation fee followed by a deposit after the sale is agreed. This financial commitment will likely be due shortly after your current home goes under contract, which is why having clarity on your sale timeline is vital.

To avoid the pitfalls of extended renting, you might look into coordinating the sale of your existing home to coincide closely with the completion of your new one. In some cases, allowing for a longer settlement period can help ensure you have a smooth transition without the need for temporary accommodation.

Ultimately, being proactive and open with all parties involved—your real estate agent, lender, and the builders—will improve your chances of aligning your selling and buying timelines effectively. It’s important to stay adaptable, as the timeline can change based on rising buyer interests or delays in construction, but with careful planning, you can minimize the amount of time spent renting and ease the transition into your new home.

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