If you’re planning to buy your next home soon, you’ve probably heard the old rule about saving 20% for your down payment.

Imagine waiting a year to buy a home, only to find mortgage rates haven’t changed much. That may sound frustrating. But it’s a real possibility.

For years, a lot of would-be homebuyers have worried about the same thing. How do you compete with big investors who can swoop in, pay cash, and snap up the houses you want?

If you’re a homeowner getting ready to move, one question usually comes first: should you buy your next home before you sell, or sell your current house before you start looking?