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Please tell me about the hell that is the buy/sell process
On Friday, DH got a great job offer that is a huge step up for him career-wise, and will allow me to become a SAHM. Hooray!
Of course, the downside to this is that we have to move 4 hours away, to an area we don't know a whole lot about. We've done some research--but you know how it is. You don't really KNOW an area unless you've lived there a while.
Anyway, this is the first time we've had to do a buy/sell at the same time (our current home was our first home purchase). Any tips for us in order to make this as smooth as possible? We are going to get our house listed stat...my biggest fear is carrying 2 mortgages (could we even get approved to do that, with me leaving work? Have to meet with a lender ASAP). Ultimately it would be perfect if the buy/sell match up time-wise, but I'm not holding my breath on that.
Also, speaking of a lender, does it make sense for us to meet with someone out here, or someone in our new town? Does that matter?
Any words of wisdom or sympathetic pats on the back are welcome! 
BFP 10/22/10, EDD 7/1/11, DS born 7/7/11
BFP 2/16/13, m/c 2/22/13 at 4w6d
BFP 4/16/13, EDD 12/24/13
Re: Please tell me about the hell that is the buy/sell process
When does he start working there?
DH and I did a long distance move last year and did the sell/buy thing at the same time.
But, previous to the move we would locate homes online that we liked, and we'd travel to the new area, plug the addresses into the GPS and drive to them, sit outside and talk about neighorhoods. It's not the same as renting in an area to learn and then buying. But it's what we did.
We lerned about traffic this way and we did all school research online using a site called www.schooldigger.com
We sold our home in March, moved in with DH's parents for April and May and bought the new home in June. BUt, prior to moving in with them we had already done a lot of info gathering so we had a quick turnaround there when we bought in June.
Honestly, what about selling this home and finding a SFH rental in the new area for 6 months or 12 months and then learning the place and then buying?
Personally, I would not feel comfortable carrying two mortgages. But, that's just me.
His start date is August 12.
The only thing that worries me about a rental is that the longer we wait to move into a home, the closer we get to my due date (baby #2 due Christmas Eve). I don't want 2 mortgages but I also don't want to be moving when I'm 8 months pregnant. However, I suppose the 2 mortgages is a worse situation and I should suck it up...lol.
BFP 10/22/10, EDD 7/1/11, DS born 7/7/11
BFP 2/16/13, m/c 2/22/13 at 4w6d
BFP 4/16/13, EDD 12/24/13
This exactly. You said yourself you don't know the area well, so don't rush into buying something that you might regret later. Take time to get to know the area and make sure you buy in a place you'll be happy with.
As far as buying before your house sells, many lenders in good markets (houses in your area sell relatively quickly) will do a bridge loan. This allows you to buy a new home while carrying your current mortgage. Ask a lender about it, I don't know all of the details.
If you are moving to a new area I urge you to just rent a house for one year. This is so important because you don't know enough about the neighborhoods and which amenities you will be using. It takes a little while to figure out which roads are super busy (for your DH's commute), which schools are the best match for you, and which neighborhood suits your needs. I would never just up and buy a house without having lived in the area for a little while. This would also give you the ability to sell your house first.
I realize being in a rental isn't ideal with kids. You want a place to call home. I still think long term this option in the best for most people moving somewhere unfamiliar.
Actually I think I am mistaken. Bridge loans are when you get an offer on your house but you are going to be closing on your new house before you close on your current house. Make sense? Either way, something to be aware of.