What to Do When There’s a Gap Between Selling and Moving

Selling your home before you can move into your new one is more common than you might think. Whether it's due to delays in the buying chain, new-build schedules, or simply the logistics of coordinating two completions, many homeowners find themselves in a temporary state of limbo.

But don’t panic – there are plenty of practical steps you can take to bridge the gap and stay organised.

Understand Why the Gap Happens

There are a number of reasons why your move-out and move-in dates might not align:

• Delayed completion on the new property

• You're moving into a rental while house-hunting

• You're relocating for work but haven’t finalised where to live

• New builds that aren’t ready yet

• The buyer’s side requests an early completion

  
  

Whatever the reason, the result is the same – you need somewhere to store your belongings and possibly somewhere to stay in the meantime.

Step 1: Book a Secure Storage Solution

The most important thing is making sure your belongings are safe and secure during the gap. That’s where short-term storage comes in.

What to Look For in a Storage Option:

• Secure, alarmed facilities

• Flexible terms – so you’re not locked in for months

• Easy access if you need to retrieve anything

• Climate control for fragile items

• Availability of collection and delivery services

  
  

A professional home removals and storage company can handle both ends of the move for you – collecting your items from your old home, storing them safely, then delivering them to your new property when you're ready.

Step 2: Consider Temporary Accommodation

If you can’t move straight into your new property, you’ll need a place to stay. Options include:

• Short-term rentals (e.g. serviced flats or Airbnb)

• Staying with friends or family

• Bridging your gap with a holiday (ideal if you’ve already moved out)

• Corporate lets, if your employer is relocating you

  
  

Top tip: If you’ll be staying somewhere small, pack a separate “live-out” suitcase with essentials – clothing, toiletries, documents and chargers – so you're not digging through all those neatly packed storage boxes.

Step 3: Speak to Your Removals Company Early

If there's a potential gap in your timeline, it’s best to flag this to your removals company as early as possible. They can help:

• Coordinate storage and re-delivery

• Plan around flexible dates

• Offer a tailored moving plan that suits your needs

  
  

Some companies offer combined removal and storage packages, which makes things far simpler – your items are packed, stored, and re-delivered without you lifting a finger.

Step 4: Plan Your Finances Accordingly

Bridging the gap might come with additional costs:

• Rent or hotel accommodation

• Storage fees

• Double council tax or utility overlaps

• Extra moving days

  
  

Make sure your budget accounts for this interim period. Some people choose to release equity from the sale to cover these expenses, or arrange bridging loans – but always seek financial advice if you're unsure.

Step 5: Keep Essential Items Accessible

When your belongings are in storage, think carefully about what you’ll need during the gap.

Items to keep with you might include:

• Clothing for all weather

• Important documents (passports, contracts)

• Laptop and work equipment

• Daily medications

• A few kitchen basics (if you're self-catering)

• Entertainment for kids or pets

  
  

Having a clear "essentials" box – or even a small set of items in a suitcase – will save time and stress.

Step 6: Time It Right, If You Can

While the housing market doesn’t always play ball, there are ways to reduce your risk of a gap:

• Align completion dates as closely as possible

• Use the same solicitor for both sale and purchase to streamline communication

• Choose a removals company that can flex with you if plans shift

• Avoid tight deadlines that rely on a flawless chain

  
  

Sometimes a small gap is worth it – especially if it gives you the freedom to complete your sale cleanly without rushing into your next home.

Final Thoughts – Keep Calm and Call the Experts

While a move with a gap in between isn’t ideal, it doesn’t have to be stressful. With a solid plan, flexible storage, and the right removals company by your side, you can navigate this stage smoothly.

At Saint Removals, we offer a complete removals and storage service designed for situations just like this. Whether you need short-term storage, flexible scheduling, or advice on managing your timeline, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Get in touch today to talk through your move – no pressure, just friendly advice from experts who’ve seen it all.