SERVICING

Central Ohio

Franklin County

Licking County

Sheila Howell

Red 1 Realty - Simplifying Your Real Estate Journey

BUYING

Discover Your Dream Home

From the heart of Ohio to the historic streets of Westerville and beyond, your perfect home is ready and waiting. Exploring the beautiful communities and homes in Central Ohio becomes a remarkable journey. Begin your next chapter with total confidence, guided by Sheila Howell with her unmatched expertise every step of the way.

SELLING

Maximize Your Home's Value

Considering a change?

Sheila Howell's marketing expertise ensures your home is showcased at its absolute best, providing an unparalleled advantage in the market. In the heart of Central Ohio, from New Albany to Buckeye Lake, Sheila ensures your property shines. Trust her to utilize her marketing expertise to expose your home to a vast number of qualified buyers.

Contact Us

Work with experience Sheila Howell

When it comes to selling your home, you need a real estate professional who not only understands the market but also has the negotiation expertise to ensure you get the best possible result. With my marketing prowess, negotiation acumen, and commitment to exceptional service, I am here to make your home selling journey a success. Contact me today to get started.

Simplifying Your Real Estate Journey

Experience seamless real estate transactions without impacting your already hectic schedule. I'm a dedicated realtor who assists busy professionals, ensuring a stress-free journey in buying and selling homes. With personalized attention and expert guidance, I streamline the process, saving time and energy while delivering exceptional results. Trust me to handle every detail including implementing a customized marketing blueprint to get your home in front of the most potential buyers. So you can focus on what matters most!

Happy mature couple celebrating with champagne flutes in their new home after buying and selling successfully in Central Ohio

Buy First or Sell First? How to Decide What’s Right for You

April 02, 20252 min read

One of the biggest challenges for homeowners looking to make a move is answering this critical question: Should I buy a new home first or sell my current one first? If you're in that boat, you're not alone—and there is a smart way forward. Let's break it down.

🔁 Why This Decision Matters

Buying and selling at the same time is a delicate dance. The order in which you do it affects everything from your stress levels to your finances and your timeline. But with the right plan, it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.


🏠 Option 1: Sell First, Then Buy

Pros:

  • You know exactly how much equity you’ll have for your next purchase.

  • You’re not juggling two mortgage payments.

  • It reduces financial risk and can increase peace of mind.

Cons:

  • You may feel rushed to find your next home.

  • Temporary housing might be needed if you don’t secure a new place quickly.

Ideal for: Those who are risk-averse or whose homes are likely to sell quickly in today’s market.


🛍️ Option 2: Buy First, Then Sell

Pros:

  • No need for temporary housing.

  • You can move into your new home before putting the current one on the market.

  • More control over your next move.

Cons:

  • You may carry two mortgages for a short time.

  • Your buying power might be affected if your current home hasn’t sold.

Ideal for: Sellers with strong financial footing or access to financing options like a bridge loan.


💡 The Smart Way to Decide

If you're still unsure, consider:

  • Your financial flexibility: Can you afford to carry two homes temporarily?

  • The market speed: Are homes in your area selling quickly?

  • Your timeline: Do you have time to wait for the perfect next home?

This decision isn’t one-size-fits-all, and that's where I come in. With a custom strategy tailored to your situation, I’ll help you time the market to your advantage—so you can move with confidence, not chaos.


📞 Let’s Create Your Strategy

Whether you're leaning toward buying first or selling first, the right plan makes all the difference. I help clients in Central Ohio navigate this process every day—and I’d be honored to help you, too.

Contact me for a personalized consultation today. Let’s talk timelines, options, and how to make your transition seamless.

Buying and selling a home at the same time Selling your home in WestervilleDownsizing in Central Ohio
blog author image

Sheila Howell

Hi, I’m Sheila Howell, a dedicated and experienced real estate professional based in Central Ohio. With my lifelong connection to the region and a deep understanding of rural areas, I am passionate about guiding buyers and sellers through their real estate transactions with care and expertise. Having reached the empty-nest stage of life, I bring a wealth of personal experiences and a strong commitment to building lasting relationships. My thorough knowledge of the local market provides insights to my clients, ensuring they make informed decisions and navigate the real estate process smoothly. Drawing from my contract negotiation and marketing expertise, I bring a unique perspective to the real estate industry. My goal is to make your real estate transaction seamless and enjoyable so that you consider me as a trusted advocate well after leaving the closing table. I would be honored to connect with you if you’re ready to embark on your real estate journey. Together, we can navigate the real estate landscape and find your dream home that perfectly reflects your lifestyle and aspirations.

Back to Blog

Hear What Our Clients Have To Say...

Get in Touch

921 Eastwind Drive #102 Westerville, OH 43081

Follow Us

Copyright © Red One Realty 2025.

Terms & Conditions - Privacy Policy - Fair Housing