How to upgrade to a better home?

How to Upgrade to a Better Home: A Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

Upgrading to a better home is a big milestone—and a smart move when your current space no longer meets your needs. Whether you need more room, want to shorten your commute, or are ready for your dream home, the process can be exciting and complex.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to sell your current home and move up to a better one with minimal stress and maximum value.

Is It the Right Time to Upgrade Your Home?

Before diving into the logistics, ask yourself:

• Has your income increased?
  
  

• Are you growing your family or working remotely more often?
  
  

• Do you want to live in a better neighborhood or school district?
  
  

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, homeowners are upgrading more frequently as home equity levels hit record highs in 2025, making it a prime time to trade up.

Step 1 – Know What Your Current Home is Worth

Understanding your home’s current market value is the foundation of any move-up plan. This determines:

• Your potential profit from the sale
  
  

• Your down payment for the next home
  
  

• Whether you can afford to buy before selling
  
  

Use our free home value tool for an instant, data-driven estimate based on Chicago market trends.

Step 2 – Get Pre-Approved for a New Mortgage

Even if you’ve bought before, upgrading typically means a larger loan amount and a more complex financial picture. Meet with a lender early to:

• Understand your new price range
  
  

• Explore bridge loan or contingent offer options
  
  

• See if you can buy first and sell later
  
  

Check out Consumer Financial Protection Bureau guidelines on home financing for more insights.

Step 3 – Create a Buying and Selling Timeline

One of the biggest challenges of upgrading is coordinating the sale of your current home with the purchase of the new one.

Here are three common strategies:

Option 1 – Sell First, Then Buy

Best if you need your equity as a down payment. You may need temporary housing.

Option 2 – Buy First, Then Sell

Best if you qualify for both mortgages. You can move without pressure to sell.

Option 3 – Use a Cash Offer Program

With the Heart of Chicago Homes Cash Offer Program, sellers can receive a guaranteed offer and close quickly, giving you more flexibility to shop for your next home.

Step 4 – Find the Right Upgrade Home

Now for the fun part—finding the home that checks all your boxes. Consider:

• Square footage and layout
  
  

• Location (school zones, commute, neighborhood feel)
  
  

• Long-term value and appreciation
  
  

Explore our exclusive Chicago featured listings to discover move-in-ready homes in sought-after neighborhoods.

Also, follow our latest updates on the Heart of Chicago Homes blog for homebuying tips, market news, and local insights.

Expert Tips to Make Your Upgrade Easier

• Work with a real estate team experienced in buy/sell coordination
  
  

• Stage and prep your current home to sell quickly and at top dollar
  
  

• Look at up-and-coming areas where you get more value per square foot
  
  

According to NAR data, 67% of move-up buyers in 2024 used proceeds from their previous sale as a down payment.

Ready to Upgrade Your Home?

Whether you're outgrowing your current space or ready to invest in your dream neighborhood, upgrading your home is more attainable than you think. With the right strategy and expert support, you can buy and sell confidently in today's competitive market.

Buying a Home in Chicago? Get Free Expert Guidance!

Chicago real estate offers great opportunities! Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading, we’ll guide you through the process and connect you with financing options.
  Get a free consultation at HeartOfChicagoHomes.com or call/text (815) 765-4252. Have questions? Email us at info@heartofchicagohomes.com.