We moved countries, France -> US. Rented for a year and used that time to search for something we liked. Avoided a lot of pigs with lipstick as home flippers in

We moved countries, France -> US. Rented for a year and used that time to search for something we liked. Avoided a lot of pigs with lipstick as home flippers in a hot market tend to slap on new paint and do shoddy, minimal repairs. I personally wouldn't buy until I'm absolutely ready to. And yes, we did miss a few opportunities since we weren't ready. Unlike my experience buying in France, the US does not do bridge loans. You are a) lucky and close as a seller and buyer, b) take on 2 mortgages hoping the old house sells, c) are temporarily homeless, d) or temporarily renting. Housing is super emotional and I hate having to make emotional decisions. You have to make a lifelong decision based on a 30 minute tour. And buying in a hot market just makes everything more stressful. I'm not surprised people are making lightning quick decisions because hesitating is not an option.