If you’re a homeowner considering a move, you’ve probably asked the age-old real estate question: “Should I sell first or buy first?” And if you’ve ever typed “I need to sell fast” into Google, you’re not alone.
This is one of the most common—and most stressful—decisions homeowners face. The pressure of buying and selling at the same time can feel overwhelming, especially in a competitive market like Burlington. That’s why having a plan, a strategy, and a top Burlington realtor in your corner is key to making the process smooth, smart, and successful.
Let’s break down the pros and cons of both approaches and explore how Clinton Howell, one of the top realtors in Ontario, can help you make the right move—without the stress.
Option 1: Selling Your Home First
Selling your home first can provide a sense of financial stability and clarity as you move into the buying process. It’s the traditional route and often preferred by homeowners who want to know exactly how much equity they’re working with before purchasing their next property.
Pros of Selling First:
- Clear Budget: Once your home is sold, you’ll know exactly how much money you have to work with for your next purchase.
- Leverage-Free Offers: You won’t need to make an offer conditional on the sale of your current home, making your offer stronger in a competitive market.
- Less Financial Risk: You’re not juggling two mortgages or feeling rushed to sell to avoid financial strain.
Cons of Selling First:
- Tight Timeline: If you sell before securing a new home, you may feel pressure to buy quickly—or risk needing temporary accommodations.
- Moving Twice: In a fast-moving market, you might need to rent short-term or live with family between moves.
Clinton’s Advice:
If your priority is “I need to sell fast” and reduce financial risk, selling first can be the safer choice—but only if it’s backed by a solid buying plan.
Option 2: Buying Your Next Home First
Buying first gives you the luxury of time and selection. You’re not rushed, and you can wait for the perfect property to come along. However, this approach comes with some important considerations.
Pros of Buying First:
- Find the Right Fit: You’ll have time to look carefully and secure a home that checks all your boxes.
- Less Disruption: Your move can be more seamless with less time in temporary housing.
- Lock in Today’s Prices: In a rising market, buying first may help you avoid paying more later.
Cons of Buying First:
- Carrying Costs: You may be stuck paying two mortgages if your home doesn’t sell quickly.
- Added Pressure: Once you buy, the pressure to sell ramps up. If the market slows or your home takes time to sell, stress and costs can pile up.
Clinton’s Advice:
Buying first can work if you’re confident your current home will sell quickly. This is where a top realtor in Burlington with a proven pricing and marketing plan is essential.
So, What Should You Do First—Buy or Sell?
Ultimately, the right decision depends on your financial comfort level, flexibility, and local market conditions.
If you:
- Have a home that’s likely to sell quickly
- Are moving to a slower-paced or more affordable market
- Have financial flexibility (bridge loan, strong savings)
…then buying first may make sense.
If you:
- Need to access your home equity before buying
- Want to sell your home faster with less financial stress
- Prefer to avoid carrying two properties
…then selling first is likely the smarter move.
The key is working with a top Burlington realtor who can evaluate your situation and create a tailored strategy that protects your bottom line.
What Top Realtors Do Differently (And Why It Matters If You Need to Sell Fast)
When you’re juggling both sides of a transaction, experience and planning matter. A lot.
That’s why working with someone like Clinton Howell—recognized as one of the top realtors in Ontario and ranked in the top 1% of all REALTORS® in the Hamilton-Burlington board—can make all the difference. Here’s what sets Clinton apart:
Custom Strategy for Every Client
Whether you’re a first-time seller or a seasoned investor, Clinton tailors his approach to your needs. No cookie-cutter plans—just personalized support that works for you.
The PPP Method: Preparation, Pricing, Promotion
Clinton’s proven 3-step formula ensures your home is fully prepped, accurately priced, and powerfully marketed to generate fast, top-dollar results.
In-House Staging and High-End Marketing
From staging to professional photography, video tours, and floor plans, Clinton’s listings look better—and sell faster—than the competition.
Responsive, Clear Communication
Real estate is stressful enough. Clinton keeps you informed, answers quickly, and removes the guesswork from every stage.
Trusted Resources and Referrals
From mortgage brokers to inspectors and contractors, Clinton gives you access to a trusted local network to streamline your entire journey.
Backed by Canada’s Top RE/MAX Brokerage
Working with RE/MAX Escarpment Realty, Clinton is part of the #1 RE/MAX brokerage in Canada. That means superior training, tools, and visibility for your listing.
So, if you’re thinking “I need to sell fast,” Clinton Howell gives you the tools and team to do just that—without panic.
Bonus Insight: What About Buying vs. Renting?
While you’re evaluating your next move, you might also be considering whether buying or renting makes more sense right now.
The answer? It depends on your goals, finances, and how long you plan to stay.
Buying Might Be Right If:
- You’re looking for stability and want to build equity
- You have the savings for a down payment and closing costs
- You plan to stay for 3+ years
Renting Might Be Better If:
- You’re unsure of your long-term plans
- You need time to build savings or improve your credit
- You want flexibility and less responsibility
As a Burlington realtor who’s helped hundreds of clients through this decision, Clinton can walk you through a real-time cost-benefit comparison based on today’s market conditions.
Real Stories. Real Results.
Clinton recently helped a Burlington couple sell their home within one week—above asking—while also helping them secure their dream home in a highly sought-after neighbourhood.
Their secret? Preparation. Strategy. And a top Burlington realtor who cared about the result and the experience.
Final Thoughts: The Right Move Starts with the Right Plan
If you’re still asking, “Should I buy or sell first?”, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Whether you’re looking to sell your home faster, time the market right, or move without stress, Clinton Howell is here to help you do it with confidence.
📞 Ready to Make the Right Move? Let’s Talk.
Clinton Howell offers expert guidance, strategic insight, and personalized support to help you buy and sell at the right time—and with the right results.
Book your strategy session today.
clinton@clintonhowell.ca
📞 905.979.9939
🌐 www.clintonhowell.ca
Top Burlington and Surrounding Events July 2025
Burlington’s Canada Day Celebration
Location: Spencer Smith Park
Date: July 1 from 9am.
Burlington’s waterfront at Spencer Smith Park transforms into a family festival on Tuesday, July 1 starting at 9 a.m. and running through fireworks at dusk. Expect games, vendor booths, children’s entertainment and live music against Lake Ontario’s skyline
Oakville’s Canada Day Celebration
Location: Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park
Date: July 1 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Cultural activities, kids’ crafts, interactive sports, food trucks and live busking-style performances—an all-ages birthday bash for Canada’s 158th birthday
Hamilton’s Canada Day Celebration
Location: Bayfront Park
Date: July 1st
children’s recreation zones, arts activities, food vendors and live performances from morning through fireworks after dark
Family Fishing Week
Date: June 28 – July 6
Fish Ontario Licence Free runs across various Halton and area waterways. Ideal setting for families to come together, enjoy nature, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, these dates offer a unique chance to fish without the usual licence requirements needed for an adult angler in Ontario.
Funzilla’s Summer Camp
Location: Funzilla – 680 Tradewind Drive, Ancaster
Date: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. all summer
Themed activity days, obstacle courses and water play sessions for campers of all ages.
Burlington Centre Lions Farmers Market
Location: Burlington Centre – 777 Guelph Line
Date: Open Every: Wednesday, Friday & Saturday
For 67 years, the Burlington Farmers’ Market has been the go-to destination for fresh, locally grown produce, delicious baked goods, farm-fresh meats, artisan cheeses, fresh and frozen seafood from the Maritimes and more!
Hamilton Fringe Festival
Location: Hamilton Festival Theatre Company (HFTco) – 41 King William Street
Date: July 16-27, 2025
Hamilton Fringe Festival returns for its 21st year from July 16 to 27 with over 350 performances, street art installations and family zones in Hamilton’s historic venues—an immersive arts celebration for all ages.
Safari Saturday: Textured Canvas Art
Location: Michaels Oakville
Date: July 12 & July 19th @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Safari Saturday: Textured Canvas Art at Michaels Oakville offers families a guided canvas painting session, creating textured animal paw prints with all materials provided.
Kidz Connect
Location: Calvary Christian Reformed Church
Date: July 14–18
Daily morning camps featuring STEM workshops, creative crafts and outdoor games at various community centres—an educational yet playful week for school-aged kids.
Summer Roundup Vendor Market
Location: Ancaster Fairgrounds – 630 Trinity Rd S, Jerseyville
Date: Sunday, July 20 from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Ancaster’s first annual Summer Roundup Vendor Market at the Ancaster Fairgrounds brings a Western-themed Kid Zone, live music, artisan vendors and tasty food trucks for a full day of family fun.
Art Gallery Burlington’s Camps Summer Camp (Ages 4-6)
Location: Art Gallery of Burlington – 1333 Lakeshore Road
Date: July 25 to July 29 – 9 AM to 4 PM
Our youngest campers will learn fundamental art skills and explore art media while drawing inspiration from what they see in the gallery. Trips to our exhibitions and conservatory over the course of the day will unlock imaginations and inspire projects. Campers will also learn to talk about their ideas and describe both their creations and the creations of others to the group!
NEW this year: There will be a 30-minute yoga session every camp day for a fun and exciting break in-between art sessions!
Oakville Latino Festival
Location: Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park – 2340 Ontario Street
Date: July 25-26-27 – 10am
3 days enjoying the best flavors from Latin America. Salty and sweet food, kids’ zone, music, live bands, international singers, dance performances, zumba, outdoor bar, entrepreneurs, exhibitors, artisans, giant outdoor parties and much more.
