If you’re planning to move in 2026, you’ve likely asked yourself:
“Should I sell first… or buy first?”
But there’s a third option many Fraser Valley homeowners overlook:
List your home first — and write offers subject to sale.
When structured properly, this strategy can reduce financial risk while still allowing you to secure your next home.
As a Realtor® working across Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford, Maple Ridge, Chilliwack and Mission, I help clients use this approach strategically — not casually. Here’s how it works.
What Is a “Subject to Sale” Offer?
A subject-to-sale offer means:
You make an offer on a property conditional upon the successful sale of your current home.
If your home sells within the agreed subject timeline, the purchase proceeds.
If it doesn’t sell, you are legally protected and not obligated to complete the purchase.
In simple terms:
You only buy if your home sells.
Why This Strategy Makes More Sense in 2026
During peak seller markets, subject-to-sale offers were rarely accepted. Sellers had stronger, unconditional offers to choose from.
But in today’s more balanced Fraser Valley market:
- Homes are taking longer to sell
- Buyers are negotiating more carefully
- Sellers are more open to structured conditions
This makes subject-to-sale offers far more realistic than they were during aggressive market cycles.
The Advantages of Listing First & Buying Subject to Sale
✅ Financial Protection
You avoid carrying two mortgages or relying on bridge financing.
✅ Reduced Stress
You’re not forced to accept a low offer just to secure your next purchase.
✅ Clear Equity Position
You know exactly how much capital you have before committing.
✅ Smarter Negotiation
You can structure timelines more confidently.
For many homeowners, this is the most balanced risk approach.
The Risks You Must Understand
Subject-to-sale offers are not automatic approvals.
⚠️ Sellers May Reject It
If the property is highly desirable or priced aggressively, sellers may prefer cleaner offers.
⚠️ Your Home Must Be Priced Correctly
An overpriced listing will weaken your buying position.
⚠️ Timelines Must Be Structured Carefully
Subject periods must align with realistic market absorption.
This strategy only works when your listing is competitive.
When Subject-to-Sale Makes the Most Sense
This approach works best if:
- You’re moving up in price point
- You want certainty before committing
- You’re conservative with financial risk
- Inventory levels are moderate to balanced
- You’re not in a panic timeline
It’s particularly effective in Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford, and Mission in 2026’s market conditions.
How Gurveer Singh Structures These Offers
When clients work with Gurveer Singh, we:
- Pre-analyze your home’s realistic sale range
- Review absorption rates in your area
- Prepare your listing before writing offers
- Structure subject timelines strategically
- Protect deposit and financing conditions
This isn’t guesswork — it’s risk management.
Tools That Help You Plan Properly
🧮 Seller Net Proceeds Calculator:
https://gurveersingh.ca/sellers/seller-net-proceeds-calculator/
📘 Seller Guide:
https://gurveersingh.ca/sellers/
📘 Buyer’s Guide:
https://gurveersingh.ca/buyers/
These tools give clarity before making major financial decisions.
Thinking About Moving in 2026?
📅 Book a Strategy Consultation with Gurveer Singh:
https://calendly.com/gurveer-gurveersingh/contact
A short planning conversation can prevent months of stress and financial exposure.
Final Takeaway
There isn’t one universal answer to “sell first or buy first.”
But in 2026, the list first and buy subject-to-sale strategy offers one of the safest middle grounds — when structured correctly.
The key is preparation, pricing discipline, and smart negotiation.
Disclosure
Gurveer Singh is an independently licensed Realtor® with Real Broker.
This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to solicit clients already under contract.
Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. This is not intended to breach any existing agency relationship.
