Buy or Sell First? - Free Phillies Tickets! 

Buy or Sell First? - Free Phillies Tickets! 

Buy or Sell First? - Free Phillies Tickets! 

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.

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🔁 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.

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🛒 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.

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🤔 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.

Wrapping Up: FREE PHILLIES TICKETS 8-18! - Summer Fun, Business Wins & What’s Ahead

This summer is already off to a great start — business is busy, life is full, and there’s a ton of exciting stuff going on. But first, let’s talk about the fun stuff!

⚾ FREE PHILLIES TICKETS 8-18! & Eagles Schedules

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! We’ll have our usual pre-game cookout and happy hour. I gave away the first 10 so quickly that I decided to buy 10 more pairs! I can give out 2 per family only and first come, first served!

My Eagles schedule magnets just arrived, and I’ll be mailing them out next week — if you’ve never received one and want a copy, just send me your address and I’ll make sure you get one. Moved recently? Send me your new address. And remember, you can live anywhere in the world and still love the Eagles—I’m happy to send a magnet your way!

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📸 Free Fall Photoshoot

In early October, the free fall photoshoot returns! Bring your family, your partner, your pet, or just your beautiful self — and you’ll get a full set of edited digital photos to use whatever you want (holiday cards, portraits, or just because). I’ll share the official date in next month’s email.

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🙏 Business Wins & Personal Updates

Business has been steady and fulfilling lately, and I’m incredibly grateful for the trust and support I continue to receive. Even during the typically slower summer months, I’ve been fortunate to keep things moving—thanks to you, my amazing clients. I recently listed four new properties across Mt. Airy, South Philly, West Philly, and Northeast Philadelphia, and I helped five buyers get under contract in Cheltenham, Port Richmond, Mt. Airy, and two in South Philly. One of the biggest projects I’m working on right now is a former cement factory in West Philly—a commercial investor’s dream—and I’m excited to see where it leads. I still have active buyers looking in all of these areas, so if you’re thinking about selling, let’s talk!

My family and I have been keeping it mostly local this summer. Our youngest had a procedure recently that went amazingly well (thank you to everyone who checked in!), and we've been enjoying everything Philly has to offer—time with family, Phillies games, the zoo, aquarium, beach trips, movies, and even my oldest son's first concert: Weird Al Yankovic! We’re also trying to squeeze in as much nature as we can around the city. I’d love to hear what you’ve been up to this summer—please keep sending your stories and photos, they always make my day. Enjoy the rest of July, and I hope to see you at the Phillies game in August or around town!

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🚴‍♂️ MS City to Shore Ride — Sept 27

On September 27th, I’m biking from Philly to Ocean City to raise money for MS—a cause close to my heart. I’ve known people of all ages affected by this disease, and I’m proud to do my part. If you’d like to support me (even $5 makes a difference!), or if you want to ride with me, I’d love that. Just reach out or check out my page: https://events.nationalmssociety.org/participant/Brad-Gellman

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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