The Most Common Dilemma in the Property Market – Answered by a Local Expert
If you’re thinking about moving home in Norwich, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is this:
Should you sell your current house first, or find a new property before putting your existing one on the market?
It’s a question that Sean Peregrine, founder of The Good Estate Agent Norwich, hears almost every day — and it’s one that can have a huge impact on your chances of a successful move.
Why This Decision Matters
Timing is Everything in the Norwich Property Market
Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating, getting the sequence right can mean the difference between securing your dream home and missing out altogether.
According to Sean, one of the most important things to understand is how ‘proceedable’ you are in the eyes of a seller. A proceedable buyer is someone who is in a strong position to move forward with a purchase — either because they’re a cash buyer, have already sold their home, or at least have it under offer.
“If your house isn’t on the market, you can’t make a serious or proceedable offer on a new place,” says Sean. “It doesn’t matter how much you love it — the seller will prioritise buyers who are ready to go.”
What Does “Proceedable” Mean — and Why Is It Important?
In today’s competitive Norwich market, proceedability is everything. Sellers (and their estate agents) will always favour buyers who are in a position to move forward without delay.
You are considered proceedable if:
- Your home is already sold, subject to contract
- You’re a cash buyer
- You’re in a short, manageable chain
- Your current property is already listed and generating interest
If your home isn’t even on the market, you’re at a disadvantage. You may be able to book a viewing, but your offer will often be rejected or placed low on the priority list — especially in high-demand areas such as Eaton, Cringleford, or Thorpe St. Andrew.
Why Selling First Is Often the Best Approach
The Practical Benefits of Listing Early
Sean’s advice is clear: get your house on the market before you fall in love with your next home.
Here’s why:
1. You Can Act Quickly When the Right Property Appears
If your home is already under offer — or at least listed — you’ll be seen as more serious by estate agents and sellers.
2. You Avoid Emotional Disappointment
Many people spot their ideal property, then scramble to get theirs listed — only to find it’s been sold in the meantime.
3. You Give Yourself a Reality Check
Not all properties sell straight away. As Sean points out, some homes sell in a week — others sit on the market for a year. If you list early, you’ll get a better sense of demand, feedback on your pricing, and whether you’re truly ready to move.
4. You Can Adjust Your Budget Based on Market Response
If your property receives strong offers early, you may be able to stretch your next budget further. If not, you can plan conservatively — avoiding the risk of overcommitting.
What If My Property Doesn’t Sell Quickly?
Understanding the Signs — and What to Do About Them
If your house has been on the market and isn’t getting viewings, it’s often a sign that:
- The asking price is too high for current market conditions
- The listing photos or presentation aren’t appealing
- The property is competing with too many similar homes nearby
At The Good Estate Agent Norwich, Sean offers free professional photography, expert valuation advice, and transparent communication throughout the sales process.
“If your house isn’t generating interest early on, the reality is it may be on the market for a while,” says Sean. “The earlier you get it listed, the sooner you’ll know where you stand.”
How to Prepare Your Property for a Quick, Confident Sale
To ensure your home is market-ready, follow these proven tips from Sean and the team:
- Get a realistic, data-backed valuation from a local agent
- Use professional photography to make your listing stand out online
- Ensure your property is listed on major portals like Rightmove and Zoopla
- Keep your home clean, neutral, and decluttered for viewings
- Work with an agent who responds quickly and knows the local market inside out
At The Good Estate Agent Norwich, Sean personally handles every listing — offering a direct, one-to-one service that larger agencies can’t match.
FAQs: Selling Before Buying in Norwich
What if I sell my house and can’t find anywhere to buy?
You can consider moving into short-term rental accommodation or negotiate a flexible completion date with your buyer. This gives you more time to find the right property.
Can I still view homes before I list mine?
Yes, but remember that most sellers won’t take your offer seriously unless your property is already on the market.
What if I get an offer on my house quickly?
That’s a great position to be in — it puts you in a strong negotiating position when buying your next home.
Should I wait until spring or summer to list?
Not necessarily. With the right pricing and presentation, homes can sell well year-round — especially in a fast-moving market like Norwich.
Local Insight: Norwich’s Market & Moving Chains
In Norwich, many homes are sold as part of a chain — where multiple transactions are dependent on one another. The longer the chain, the more likely delays become.
Being proceedable reduces your risk in the chain and increases the likelihood of your offer being accepted.
Sean regularly works with local solicitors and other agents to keep chains moving smoothly, offering trusted advice and quick communication when it matters most.
Final Thoughts: Take Control by Starting Early
If you’re unsure whether to sell or buy first, the smart answer is: start by listing your current property. It doesn’t commit you to anything — but it opens up options, strengthens your buying power, and prepares you to move quickly when the right property appears.
“You’ve got nothing to lose by getting your home on the market — and everything to gain if the right property shows up next week,” says Sean.
Ready to Discuss Your Move?
Thinking about selling in Norwich? Sean is here to help — with local knowledge, honest advice, and no upfront fees.
Call Sean directly on 01603 850860
Email: seanperegrine@thegood.co.uk