I've noticed that Kitchens and Bathrooms tend to get the highest return. Most new homeowners don’t want to live through a kitchen remodel. That being said, either upgrade the kitchen and baths and ENJOY them before you sell, or spray the cabinets with high-end paint and then upgrade the countertops to give them a fresh feel.

I have also noticed buyers want an even flow on the first-level flooring. Going from one type of flooring to another in each room makes the space feel chopped up. Hardwood throughout (in the kitchen, too!) gives the space a nice, even flow! 

Scraping and painting all peeling paint will make the home look maintained, which helps buyers not wonder what has NOT been maintained in the spaces they can't see. 

Talk with a reputable loan officer to see what you are approved for on paper.  You'll need to know if you can purchase a home without having to sell.

If you HAVE to sell to buy, then timeline is key!  In today’s market, finding the home you like and then getting approved for the new home is hard, especially with a contingency!

Timelines could be helpful with your new buyer. Maybe they let you close (no more contingency), and then you can stay renting from the house for a short time before you buy. You can ask for a longer close timeline for your purchase so you can close quickly.

Hire your REALTOR® stager to get your home in tip-top shape BEFORE you are ready to go to market. Your REALTOR®'s photographer could also help so that your REALTOR® can quickly hit the GO button when you find THE ONE!

Work with your REALTOR® on a smart pricing strategy to attract the most buyers with the best terms!

Coordinate closing dates of your current home sale with the new home purchase, or have a plan B for temporary housing and close on two different days.

Consider a Bridge Loan or Equity Line to cover short-term gaps. Check with your financial planner for other options.