Adapted edition, 6 November 2026. First published in 2020.
An offer, a signed sale contract and money available in your account happen at different points. Start by identifying when you need the first payment for your next home and exactly where it will come from.
If you sell first
Ask your lender for the mortgage discharge amount for the expected payment date. Deduct selling expenses and allow for money the lawyer may hold pending required certificates. Budget for temporary rent, storage and an additional move if the new property is handed over later.
If you buy first
Ask your bank what funding is available before the existing home sells and what a delay would cost. Have your lawyer check replacement-home purchase tax conditions for your dates and ownership circumstances. If one transaction or funding source is overseas, add bank processing and currency conversion to the calendar.
Combine the two schedules
Place payments, possession dates and expected release of held funds on one timeline. Identify the largest funding gap and test a later sale. The tax guide and calculator can help organise initial figures. Discuss the timing with your advisers and use it to define a realistic property search with Alla.