Going through a divorce or separation is an emotional and challenging time, and when a property is involved, it can make the process feel even more overwhelming. Deciding what to do with your home is often one of the biggest questions couples face. Whether one of you wants to stay in the property or you’ve both agreed to sell, there are important factors to think about to ensure the process runs as smoothly as possible.
Does One Party Want to Buy Out the Other?
If one of you wishes to remain in the property, it’s worth exploring the financial options available. Speaking with an independent mortgage broker can help you understand whether a buyout is feasible. We can connect you with a trusted broker to guide you through your options.
Do You Both Want to Sell?
In many cases, selling is the best or only option. If that’s the case, both parties will need to agree on the asking price and the marketing strategy for the property. Having clarity from the outset helps avoid disputes and speeds up the process.
Will You Both Be Living in the Property During the Sale?
If you’re both staying in the house until it sells, presentation is key. Simple things like agreeing who will handle tidying up before viewings can make a big difference. You’ll also need to decide:
- Who will carry out the viewings?
- Would you prefer both of you to be present?
- Or would you rather we, as your estate agents, handle all viewings on your behalf?
Are Children Involved?
Viewings can be stressful for children. We usually recommend arranging for them to be out of the house during this time so that potential buyers can view the property without distractions.
Where Should We Meet?
You may not feel comfortable meeting at your current home to discuss the sale. That’s completely understandable. We’re happy to meet with you away from the property if that feels more suitable.
How Would You Like to Be Contacted?
We always tailor communication to suit our clients. Whether you prefer phone calls, text messages, emails, WhatsApp, or in-person meetings, we’ll work with whichever method works best for you.
What to Tell Potential Buyers if They Ask Why You’re Moving
It’s natural for buyers to ask why a property is being sold. Our advice is to be open and honest. Divorce or separation is unlikely to affect their decision. Remember, your home has many positive features we’ll highlight to help it stand out to buyers.
Should the Divorce Solicitor Handle Conveyancing?
In most cases, the solicitor handling your divorce won’t specialise in conveyancing. For a smoother, faster sale, it’s best to instruct a conveyancing solicitor experienced in property transactions. When comparing options, don’t just look at price. Ask how long, on average, it takes them to complete a sale. Ideally, this should be between 60 and 90 days.
Final Thoughts
Selling a home during a divorce or separation is never easy, but with the right support and advice, the process can be made less stressful. By planning ahead, appointing the right professionals, and keeping communication clear, you’ll be better placed to move forward with confidence.