Should I Sell My Home Before or After Buying a New One in Nashville, TN?

Should I sell my home before or after buying a new one in Nashville, TN?
If you’re wondering whether to sell your current home before buying your next one in Nashville, the answer depends on your financial flexibility, local market trends, and comfort with risk. Nik Shewmaker, known around town as Nashville’s Nik, helps clients navigate this pivotal decision every day with local expertise and smart strategy.

Understanding the Nashville Real Estate Market

Before making any decision, you need to understand the temperature of the Nashville real estate market. Nashville’s housing scene has seen tremendous growth over the past few years, and while things are starting to normalize, competition is still stiff in many desirable neighborhoods like East Nashville, 12 South, Brentwood, and Bellevue.

As of early 2025, homes in Davidson County are spending an average of 32 days on the market, and the median home price is hovering around $510,000. Inventory is gradually increasing, giving buyers a little more leverage than during the ultra-competitive 2020-2022 market.

So what does that mean for you? It means timing is everything—and that’s where a seasoned agent like Nashville’s Nik can make all the difference.

Pros of Selling First

Selling your home before buying a new one can make financial sense and give you peace of mind, especially if you’re not comfortable juggling two mortgages.

Advantages:

• Know your budget: Once your home is sold, you’ll know exactly how much equity you’re working with.

• No double payments: Avoid the financial strain of paying two mortgages, property taxes, and utilities.

• Stronger negotiating position: You won’t need to make a contingent offer when buying your next home, which can be more attractive to sellers.

Considerations:

• Need for temporary housing: If your new home isn’t ready, you might need a short-term rental or to stay with friends or family.

• Moving twice: You'll have to store your belongings and move more than once, which can be inconvenient and costly.

Pros of Buying First

If you’re financially able and find your dream home before your current one sells, buying first might be the right move.

Advantages:

• No pressure to rush: You can take your time finding the perfect next home.

• Seamless transition: If timed well, you can move directly from your old home into your new one.

• More control: You can stage and show your old home after you’ve moved out, which can make it more appealing to buyers.

Considerations:

• Bridge loans or HELOCs: You may need temporary financing options to cover the down payment for your new home.

• Financial stress: Managing two homes, even temporarily, can be stressful and financially risky.

Questions to Ask Before Making the Move

• Do you have enough savings to carry two homes temporarily?

• Are homes in your current neighborhood selling quickly?

• How long will it take to find the right home in your next desired area?

• Would you be comfortable moving into a rental or with family if needed?

• Have you spoken to a local lender about bridge loan options?

Your answers to these questions will help guide the strategy. And if you’re unsure, don’t guess—Nik Shewmaker has helped dozens of families in Middle Tennessee make this exact call with confidence.

How Nashville’s Nik Can Help

Every real estate move is personal, and your plan should be, too. That’s why working with a local expert like Nik Shewmaker is so valuable. As Nashville’s Nik, she brings:

• Deep local market knowledge: From East Nashville bungalows to Franklin estates, she knows what sells and when.

• Custom strategies: Whether you want to list first or buy first, she’ll help you build a timeline that fits your goals.

• Stress-saving resources: From trusted lenders to reliable moving companies, Nik’s network keeps your transition smooth.

• Compassion and experience: She understands how emotional this process can be—and she’s with you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts: Buy First or Sell First?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but with the right strategy, timing, and guidance, you can make a move that feels both smart and stress-free.

If you’re wondering what your next best step is, let’s talk. Nik Shewmaker—aka Nashville’s Nik—is here to help you sell your home, find your next one, and navigate the process with confidence.

What Is the Best Time to Sell a Home in Nashville, TN?

What is the best time to sell a home in Nashville, TN?
The best time to sell a home in Nashville, TN is typically during the spring and early summer months—April, May, and June. Homes listed during this period tend to sell faster and closer to asking price due to increased buyer demand and favorable weather conditions.

Why Timing Matters in Real Estate

When you decide to sell your home, timing isn't everything—but it's close. While a well-priced and well-presented home can sell in any season, listing your home when demand is naturally higher gives you a significant edge. In Nashville’s real estate market, timing can mean the difference between a bidding war and sitting on the market for weeks.

Nashville's Real Estate Market Cycles

Spring: Prime Selling Season (March–June)

• High buyer demand: Warmer weather brings out more serious buyers.
• Tax refunds: Many buyers use tax returns for down payments.
• Curb appeal: Landscaping blooms, homes show better.

Stat Snapshot: According to Greater Nashville Realtors® data, homes listed in April and May sell 10–15% faster and often closer to list price than those listed in fall or winter.

Summer: Still Strong (July–August)

• Families on the move: Buyers with children want to settle before the school year.
• Longer daylight: More time for showings.

Fall: Slowing but Serious (September–November)

• Motivated buyers: Fewer “lookers,” more qualified buyers.
• Less competition: Fewer homes on the market means yours may stand out.

Winter: The Quiet Season (December–February)

• Low inventory: You may face less competition.
• Relocation season: End-of-year job changes prompt serious buyer activity.

Local Insights: Nashville-Specific Selling Trends

Nashville isn’t just growing—it’s booming. But within that boom, neighborhoods behave differently. Here’s what you should know:

1. East Nashville

Buyers here trend younger and trendier. They often start shopping early spring.

2. Brentwood & Franklin

Families dominate these markets. Listings in May and June often perform best as parents plan around school schedules.

3. The Nations & Sylvan Park

Mid-spring into early summer sees strong demand from move-up buyers looking for walkability and lifestyle.

Quick Tip from Nashville’s Nik: “If you’re thinking of selling in Green Hills, consider listing by mid-April. It hits that sweet spot right before summer travel starts.”

Other Factors That Influence Your Ideal Timing

Even the best seasonal window won’t compensate for:

• Overpricing
• Poor marketing
• Neglected repairs or staging

Timing is just one piece of the puzzle. Here's what else to consider:

Market Conditions

• Low inventory? Great time to stand out.
• High interest rates? May slow down certain buyer groups.

Personal Timeline

• Relocation? Divorce? New job? Sometimes you sell when you have to.

Your Home’s Condition

• Is it move-in ready or in need of updates?

How Nik Shewmaker Helps You Choose the Right Time

Selling at the right time takes more than a calendar. It takes a plan. Here’s what I offer as your Nashville real estate expert:

• Local market expertise: I analyze hyper-local data and trends, not just general averages.
• Pre-market strategy: From prepping and staging to timing the listing, we make sure your home shines.
• Customized timing plan: Based on your goals, neighborhood, and the type of home you’re selling.

Bonus: I’ll tell you if now isn’t the best time to list—and why.

Pros and Cons of Selling in Each Season

Nik Shewmaker (NashvillesNik)

📲 Call or text (615) 585-0022

📧 Email: Nashvillesnik@gmail.com

🌐 Visit: www.NashvillesNik.com