SHOULD YOU USE THE SAME REALTOR AS YOUR SPOUSE DURING A DIVORCE?
When navigating the complexities of a divorce, there’s no shortage of decisions to be made and agreements to be reached.
If you own property together, one of these decisions will be whether to use the same Realtor as your soon-to-be-ex-spouse.
Initially, opting for separate Realtors might seem natural, particularly if the split isn't entirely amicable (after all, you aren’t sharing divorce lawyers!). However, I’m here to shed light on why this isn’t the only option you should consider.
Here’s a few reasons you may want to consider using the same Realtor during your divorce:
If you and your spouse already have an established relationship with a Realtor (for example, the Realtor you used when purchasing your home), hiring them can facilitate smoother communication and a better grasp of preferences.
Additionally, when both partners agree to work with one Realtor, there tends to be more trust in the process.
If you don’t have any pre-established relationships with Realtors, beware agent referrals from your divorce lawyers, as they are usually biased (meaning that the agent and attorney refer clients to each other). This matters because the realtor might prioritize maintaining their relationship with the legal professional over your best interests.
It’s a better idea to ask trusted friends and family if they have any recommendations for local Realtors!
Using one Realtor who prioritizes the collective well-being of your family may provide a more neutral outcome.
Separate Realtors may inadvertently offer conflicting advice, causing delays and complications in decision-making (think “too many cooks in the kitchen”!).
Not only do you have to agree as ex-spouses, but your Realtors will also have to agree on things like list price, marketing strategy, and handling of offers.
When it comes to searching for new properties, using the same Realtor can be beneficial - particularly when there are children involved. They may approach the situation more holistically when they understand what each partner’s new living arrangements are going to look like.
Using the same realtor can streamline the process, as they'll have a comprehensive understanding of the shared assets, preferences, and goals of both parties.
This not only enhances efficiency but also reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings.
As you weigh the decision of whether to use the same realtor during your divorce proceedings, it's essential to consider the unique dynamics of your situation and prioritize what will best serve your family.
Ultimately, open communication, transparency, and a clear understanding of your priorities will guide you towards the best decision for your individual circumstances.
Questions? Reach out! I specialize in helping divorced families move gracefully into their new chapter.
Claire has a keen interest in investment properties and looks forward to continuing to help her clients build their real estate investment portfolios.