First, a disclaimer: most of the time, it is a good idea to sell your old house before purchasing a new one. After all, the potential burden of paying for two mortgages at the same time is a financial risk which few people are willing and able to take on. That being said, there are some specific circumstances in which you might want to consider reversing the order of things by buying the new house first. The market being what it is currently having a house purchased before you sell your own might be your only option in this buyers market. You may be faced with not being able to find a house before you sell your own. Keep reading to learn about the other factors which can make this unconventional decision a smart move!