Case
Paul & Jackie are in the very early stages of dissolving their divorce...
THE STORY OF PAUL & JACKIE
study
Before contacting me, Paul communicates to Jackie he'd like the home on the market right away and sold as soon as possible. They decide Jackie will remain in the home until it sells. After a conversation, it's clear Jackie is doing her best to get the house prepared to list, but works full time and isn't sure what needs to be done. After getting to know their situation, I agree to communicate with each party separately for the duration of the transaction until we reach our one shared goal:
I'M HERE TO HELP BOTH OF THEM MAKE THE MOST POSSIBLE PROFIT, ACCORDING TO THE NECESSARY TIMELINE, WHILE SUPPORTING BOTH OF THEIR WISHES ALONG THE WAY.
Before the home is listed, I take the time to educate both clients about the importance of pricing, my professional assessments of the home, and my suggested strategy. Whether these conversations happen together or separately, it's my goal to make sure all the goals and struggles each party is dealing with are out on the table. This is my client's chance to air any expectations or potential obstacles so we can create an objective plan of action to get the home across the finish line.
To get Paul & Jackie to the closing table with a minimum of stress, I focused on three main things:
#1
#2
#3
I provided Jackie with a step-by-step guide for how to properly prepare and show the home, offering help where needed. I've found with this type of home transition, knowing what to do is half the battle. Your mind is on other things, and that's okay! Leave the rest to me.
I kept Paul informed every step of the way, both in the preparation phase (where I made sure to get his important input and knowledge about the house), and during the negotiation and contract phase. I focus on making sure everyone involved feels heard and represented.
I acted as the neutral mediating party throughout the transaction, making sure Jackie and Paul were always contacted separately within the same day and that any needed correspondence or negotiation about the home went through me.
ONE OF THE WAYS I PROVIDE VALUE FOR MY CLIENTS IN THIS CONTEXT IS BY REMINDING EVERYONE INVOLVED THAT IT'S ABOUT REACHING A SHARED GOAL, NOT ABOUT WINNING.
By addressing individual concerns, desires, and needs upfront, we can create a middle ground from which to operate. Communication during a divorce can be difficult, especially when emotions are high. It's my job to help you stay objective and moving forward, whatever it takes. I'll keep your legal team in the loop and coordinate whatever accommodating measures are needed, such as separate signings or email correspondence. My goal is to make selling your home the easiest part of your divorce.
FAQs
Will I have to communicate with my soon-to-be ex while we get through this?
No. I'll never ask you to communicate directly with your previous partner if you're not comfortable with that. Meeting, calling, and emailing separately is entirely possible.
What if the remaining spouse won't get the house ready to list?
That's my job to work through. I'll coach and work with the remaining spouse to achieve the task at hand of getting the home sold. It is in everyone's best interest to make the house as attractive and clean as possible.
We haven't agreed on how to split the proceeds yet, is that an issue?
Potentially. We will need to work hand in hand with your attorneys to coordinate the details. If you haven't come to an agreement on how to handle the proceeds, they may be tied up in escrow until a solution is found.
Is it best to sell before or after the divorce?
In almost every case, it's best to sell the home before the divorce. Married couples are eligible for a $500,000 tax exclusion while individually you're only eligible for up to $250,000. You can end up saving thousands by strategically planning your divorce.
What if we've verbally agreed to continue splitting the mortgage each month until the house sells?
We HIGHLY recommend making all financial agreements in writing during a divorce as emotions run high and emotional decisions tend to change over time.
We have a friend/family member in real estate who has offered to help us out, is that a good idea?
Every situation is different, but in my experience, having a completely neutral third party representing you throughout the sale is best for all parties. With me, there's no favoritism, only compassion and support for both parties.
What if we disagree about how to proceed with an offer?
As your real estate professional, it's my job to thoroughly explain what every detail of your contract. Once all parties are fully educated on the details, I find there's usually one clear, reasonable path to take. That being said, I'll never force you to agree to anything you don't want to.