The ultimate guide to upgrading your home

Selling first gives you a clearer budget, but you may need temporary accommodation. Buying first can avoid moving twice, but leaves you exposed to a slower sale or a lower price. Compare those costs with the repayments and sale deadline on any bridging loan before deciding.

You may be able to, if the lender approves the extra borrowing. Equity is not cash: accessing it increases your debt, and the lender checks the property value and what you can repay. Confirm when the money can be released so it is available for the contract deposit. Our guide to using equity for another property explains how the loans fit together.

Yes, if the contracts, lenders and conveyancers can coordinate the two settlements. The sale proceeds can then help fund the purchase. Your conveyancer also needs a plan for a delay, and you may need to fund the purchase deposit before the sale settles. See our simultaneous settlement guide.

Possibly, if you can fund the next purchase and afford both properties. Include the extra borrowing, rental expenses, vacancies and repairs in the budget. Ask your tax adviser to check the loan history and tax consequences before changing how the property is used. Our sell or rent out your home guide compares the two choices.

Yes. Compare the renovation cost and disruption with the cost of selling and buying. A smaller project may suit savings or an approved loan increase; major structural work may need construction finance. Get quotes and check the funding before committing. See the renovation loan options.

Confirm the price you can afford, how you will pay the deposit and which loan conditions remain outstanding. Tell your broker and conveyancer whether the purchase depends on selling your current home. Pre-approval is conditional, so have the property and contract checked before committing.