Selling Your Home and Moving Up in Roanoke, VA: A Smart Plan for 2025-2026

If you own a home in Roanoke, Virginia and you’re thinking about selling to buy something bigger or better, you’re not alone. Many Roanoke homeowners are sitting on years of equity—but aren’t sure how to use it without putting their next purchase at risk.

With the right strategy, selling your home and moving up in Roanoke can be smooth and financially smart.

Step 1: Know How Much Equity You Can Use

Most move-up buyers in Roanoke have more equity than they realize, especially if they purchased before 2020.

Your equity can help with:

• Down payment on your next home
• Closing costs
• Lower monthly payments

Before listing your home, it’s critical to understand how much equity you can safely apply toward your next purchase.

Step 2: Should You Sell First or Buy First in Roanoke?

This is one of the most common questions local homeowners ask.

Selling First

Pros

• Lower financial risk
• Guaranteed funds
• Stronger negotiating position

Cons

• Possible temporary housing

Buying First

Pros

• No double move
• Less disruption

Cons

• Requires careful loan strategy

In Roanoke, seller rent-backs and flexible closings are becoming more common, making timing easier for move-up buyers.

Step 3: Options to Access Equity Before Selling

Some homeowners don’t realize they have options beyond selling first.

Possible solutions include:

• Bridge loans
• HELOCs used temporarily
• Properly structured contingent offers

These strategies must be customized—but when used correctly, they can help you buy before selling.

Step 4: Get Pre-Approved Before You List

This is one of the most important—and most overlooked—steps.

A true pre-approval:

• Clarifies your buying power
• Accounts for sale proceeds
• Prevents surprises
• Strengthens your offer

In competitive Roanoke neighborhoods, pre-approval matters more than rate.

Step 5: Use a Local Team That Works Together

Selling and buying at the same time requires coordination.

Your loan officer and Realtor should:

• Align timelines
• Structure offers strategically
• Coordinate closings
• Protect your equity

Local Roanoke experience makes a difference.

Is 2025-2026 a Good Time to Move Up in Roanoke, VA?

For many homeowners, yes.

Why?

• Inventory is improving
• Buyer competition is lower
• Sellers are more flexible
• Equity levels remain strong

The key is having a plan before you list.

Thinking About Selling and Moving Up in Roanoke?

If you’re considering selling your current home and buying your next one, the smartest first step is understanding your options—not guessing.

I help Roanoke homeowners:

• Evaluate equity
• Plan timing
• Get fully pre-approved
• Move up with confidence

👉 Schedule a strategy call before you list your home.

Jonathan Sweat

Loan Officer | 2840 Electric Road, Suite 102-A, Roanoke, VA 24018

NMLS# 308553

540-314-8843 | jsweat@ihmcloans.com