Lessons Learned Selling Houses After A Divorce

Selling a property can be a challenging and emotional process, especially when the clients are going through a divorce. As a property agent, I’ve had the privilege of assisting divorced couples in selling their homes, and each experience has imparted valuable lessons.

Through these experiences, I’ve gained insights that can benefit couples in similar situations, property agents, and prospective buyers.

Here are the lessons learned from 3 of these cases.

CASE 1: OPEN COMMUNICATION & COOPERATION

Scenario:

This case involved someone I know—the wife. I had taught her child back when I was still a Kumon instructor. I only learned about the divorce when she contacted me one day about selling the property.

The wife had moved out while the husband (whom I’ve never known) was still staying there. After the initial meeting, a WhatsApp chat group was created to inform the wife about viewing requests.

The husband was cooperative with viewing requests. The offers I received were presented and discussed in the group chat. The sale was eventually concluded with minimal fuss.

Lesson Learned:

Open and respectful communication between ex-spouses is crucial. When both parties are aligned, and one is willing to take the lead, the process can be smoother. Maintaining clear and constant communication can help agents navigate potential conflicts.

CASE 2: TRUST & PATIENCE

Scenario:

This case involved sellers whom I didn’t know. The wife reached out to me after the husband had tried to sell the property unsuccessfully for many months through an agent who was his friend.

When I visited the property for the first time to discuss the sale, the husband had already moved out. I could not meet him separately as he frequently travelled for work.

However, the wife assured me that she had reached an understanding with the husband that she would drive the selling since he had failed when given the chance. I got to work once I had the exclusive sale agreement e-signed by both of them.

Once I achieved the pre-agreed target sale price, I encountered an issue.

The husband gave me various “reasons” for not being able to meet to sign the OTP. Constant postponements tested the wife’s (and the buyer’s) patience.

Thankfully, the husband eventually signed the OTP. That was the first and last time I saw him.

Lesson Learned:

Understanding the reasons behind delays can help in finding resolutions without escalating tension. We found out much later that the husband was indeed busy with work.

This highlighted how the lack of communication between spouses can create delays & mistrust. They should always discuss their availability and concerns upfront to avoid last-minute complications.

CASE 3: SENSITIVITY & COMPASSION

Scenario:

The wife contacted me about selling her place, and I had to meet her and her husband separately as they were no longer on talking terms. Despite their differences, they were united in their wish to sell the property and get on with their lives.

Shortly after the sale started, I discovered the wife was in financial hardship, and her mental health was not in an optimal state. This situation had to be managed carefully to achieve the best possible selling price for the couple.

The property eventually sold for a good price but with an unexpected twist.

When the sale was about to be completed, the wife sold fixtures that were supposed to stay, infuriating the buyer.

It was then that I decided to share the wife’s challenging circumstances with the buyer and his agent. The buyer’s attitude shifted from anger to understanding.

Lesson Learned:

Sensitivity towards each party’s situation is essential, especially for deals involving divorced couples. Divorce can bring out vulnerabilities, and understanding these can aid in smoother transactions.

For agents and buyers, showing empathy and flexibility can significantly impact the overall experience and outcome.

The simplest acts of kindness are by far more powerful than a thousand heads bowing in prayer.

Mahatma Gandhi

CONCLUSION

Selling a property during a divorce can be an emotionally charged and complex process. As a property agent, navigating these situations requires professionalism, empathy, and effective communication.

Through these three cases, I’ve learned that open and respectful communication between ex-spouses is crucial for a smooth transaction. The process can be much easier when both parties are aligned and willing to work together. However, when communication breaks down, it can lead to delays, mistrust, and added stress for all involved.

It’s also essential to be sensitive to each party’s unique circumstances. Understanding and addressing their specific needs can make a significant difference. The ultimate goal is to help both parties achieve a fair outcome so they can move on with their respective lives, free from the shared burden of an unsold property.

For couples going through a divorce and needing to sell their property, I offer this advice. Prioritize open and honest communication with each other and your property agent.

End the final chapter on a positive note.

To my fellow property agents, remember that selling divorce properties requires an extra level of sensitivity and understanding. Be prepared to adapt to each client’s unique needs and be a source of stability and support throughout the process.

And to prospective buyers, I encourage you to approach these situations with compassion and flexibility. A little understanding can go a long way in making a difficult time more manageable for the sellers.

By sharing these experiences, I hope to inspire others to approach these challenges with an open heart and a commitment to finding solutions that work for everyone involved.

P.S. A sale of the property is only possible after the certificate of final judgment is out. I only handle divorce cases where both parties agree to engage me exclusively to act for them.