Buy or Sell First? - Free Phillies Tickets! - Market Updates
by Brad Gellman
Gellman Real Estate News
July 2025 Edition
I hope you're having a great summer so far. This month’s update includes a look at the current real estate market and highlights from recent listings and sales. You'll also find details on free Phillies tickets, this year’s Eagles schedule magnet, and an upcoming free family photoshoot event. I’ve also included a quick personal update. Let’s first start with some insights for those considering if they should buy or sell a home.
Should You Buy or Sell First?
If you already own a home but are thinking about moving — whether upsizing, downsizing, or relocating — one of the first questions I always get is: Should I sell my current home first, or buy my next one first?
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Over the years, I’ve helped clients succeed with both approaches — it really comes down to your goals, your timeline, and your financial comfort zone. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons, along with some real stories from people I’ve worked with.
🔁 Selling First: A Safer Financial Move
Pros:
- You’ll know exactly how much equity you have to work with
- You won’t be juggling two mortgages at once
- You may be in a stronger position when buying (no home sale contingency)
Cons:
- You might need temporary housing
- The home search can feel a little more pressured
Client story:
Last year, I worked with a couple in Mt. Airy. They had outgrown their starter home but didn’t want to carry two mortgages. We listed their house and got it under contract in just over a week. Then, with a solid offer in hand, we found their next home in Elkins Park — and were able to move quickly with confidence. It was a bit of a juggle, but we timed the settlements perfectly.
🛒 Buying First: More Convenience, Less Pressure
Pros:
- You can take your time finding the right home
- You won’t need temporary housing or storage
- You get to move once and settle in smoothly
Cons:
- You’ll need the financial ability to hold two properties for a short time
- Offers may need to be contingent on selling your current home (unless we strategize around that)
Client story:
Another one of my clients found their dream home in Havertown sooner than expected — it checked every box, and the location was perfect. After a quick conversation, we put in a strong offer, and they got it. We then listed their home the following week, staged it thoughtfully, and had multiple offers in a few days. Their move was seamless, and they avoided the stress of temporary housing.
🤔 So… What’s Right for You?
If you're wondering which path is best, I’d love to help you think it through. I’ll look at your current home, discuss local market trends, and help you map out the best timing and strategy based on your goals. No pressure — just honest advice based on what’s worked for my clients and what’s happening in the market right now.
📍 July 2025 Housing Market Update: Philly, Bucks, Montco & Delco
🏡 July 2025 Market Snapshot - Philly, Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware
The Greater Philadelphia real estate market remains at record highs, though some segments are cooling slightly. Prices continue their moderate climb, inventory is up, and buyer activity is easing in high-demand categories, offering some footholds for buyers.
📍 Philadelphia County
Philadelphia County’s median sale price reached about $296,000 in June—a 5.8% increase from last year—with homes taking around 45 days to sell, up slightly from 42 days a year ago. Rocket Homes reports 8,995 listings with a median list price of $292,873 (a 1.6% increase since May) and a 36.5% bump in inventory month-over-month to 5,662 active listings. Buyer demand remains strong— Bright MLS’s Home Demand Index stands at 78 for entry-level single-family homes, a bit softer than last month but well above last year’s levels. Additional data available via The Business Journals and Redfin.
📍 Bucks County
Bucks County homes showed resilience in June, with a median sale price of $515,000—a modest 1.7% year-over-year gain—and closed sales jumping 18.6% year-over-year. Inventory and demand both remain firm, keeping the market competitive through the summer. (Bucks County Association of Realtors)
📍 Montgomery County
June saw a shift in Montgomery County: Rocket Homes reports a median list price of $499,900, down 9.1% from May; yet listings surged to 1,997 homes (up 70.7% month-over-month). While the market offers more choices, buyers may find opportunities: 67% of recent sales closed below asking price, and average listing age fell to 49 days.
📍 Delaware County
Delaware County led regional growth in June, with the highest jump in June’s median sale price—up 7.9% to around $410,000 according to The Business Journals. Two towns— Swarthmore and Chadds Ford— ranked among the top 10 hottest markets locally, with average home prices exceeding $664,000 and $802,000 respectively according to DELCO.Today. Regional data shows the Greater Philadelphia metro hit a new record-high median of $416,000 in June, though overall annual price growth slowed to a still-solid 4% according to REMAX Plus.
🎉 Wrapping Up: FREE PHILLIES TICKETS 8-18! - Summer Fun, Business Wins & What’s Ahead
August 18 is my annual Phillies game outing! If you’ve joined us before, you know it’s always a blast — especially with how great the Phillies have been this season!
My Eagles schedule magnets just arrived — if you’ve never received one and want a copy, just send me your address and I’ll make sure you get one. And remember, you can live anywhere in the world and still love the Eagles.
Weird Al Yankovic!
Weird Al Yankovic Official Site
🚴♂️ On September 27th, I’m biking from Philly to Ocean City to raise money for MS—a cause close to my heart. If you’d like to support me, check out my page:
MS Ride Fundraiser Page
If you're planning to make a move — or just want to talk about the smartest strategies for today’s market — I’m always happy to connect. Reply to this email, call or text me anytime.
Warmly,
Brad
Gellman PA Properties325 Chestnut St. Suite 1300
Philadelphia, PA 19106
267.259.0134
gellmanrealestate@gmail.com
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