How we help · For buyers and sellers
Buying and selling a home at the same time in the DC area
The short answer
To buy and sell at the same time, set the order of the two transactions with your agent and lender first, price and prepare your current home early, and negotiate terms that give you room on timing. Chris Itteilag leads both sides for clients across DC, Maryland and Virginia, including moves from one jurisdiction to another, so both sides move in step under one plan.
Answers the question: How do I buy and sell a house at the same time in the DC area?
Two transactions, one family in the middle
Selling and buying at once means two contracts, two sets of deadlines and one household in between. If the sale closes too early you may need somewhere to stay; too late and you may be carrying two homes. When the homes are in different jurisdictions, the contracts and closing customs differ too.
How Chris keeps both sides in step
One strategy, both homes
Pricing, preparation and the purchase search planned together from day one.
The right order for you
Options to weigh with your lender: sell first, buy first, a contingent offer, or more time in your home after settlement.
Licensed across the region
Chris practices in DC, Maryland and Virginia, so a sale in one and a purchase in another stay with one agent.
Terms that buy you time
Closing dates and conditions negotiated with both moves in mind.
A team on the calendar
The Chris Itteilag Group tracks every deadline on both contracts through closing.
The record
The proof is in the record
- $750M+in career sales
- 550+clients served
- $18Mtop sale, Fessenden House
- 20+years in DC, MD & VA
Chris was ranked the #1 SERHANT. Agent in Washington DC by volume by RealTrends Verified 2026.
Career highlights
Shown for range and local experience across the Capital Region; these highlights are not presented as examples of this specific situation. All career highlights →
Questions clients ask
Can I make an offer on a house before I sell mine?
Yes. You can make an offer contingent on selling your current home, though such offers can be less competitive, or buy first if your finances allow. Your lender can explain financing options. Chris Itteilag helps clients choose the order that balances risk and certainty.
Can one agent represent me when selling in Maryland and buying in DC or Virginia?
Yes, if the agent is licensed in both. Chris Itteilag is licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, so he can represent a sale in one jurisdiction and a purchase in another.
What is a rent-back?
A rent-back, or post-settlement occupancy, lets a seller stay in the home for an agreed period after closing. It can ease the timing of a simultaneous move. Its terms are negotiated in the contract, so ask your agent early if you may need one.
General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Consult your own attorney, tax advisor or lender about your situation.