Selling after divorce

Navigating the sale of a property post-divorce can be as complex and emotionally challenging as the divorce process itself. It's a chapter of life that many hope to swiftly move past, yet it often requires careful consideration and strategic planning. We regularly speak with people divorcing and separating who want to sell their property as fast as possible, in order to start life afresh. 

Whether you're downsizing, redistributing assets, or simply moving, selling a property after divorce demands a blend of practicality and sensitivity. We have a wealth of experience navigating people going through divorce and selling their marital home and other property assets. We have compiled a comprehensive list below of things to keep in mind when divorcing and looking to sell your property:

1. Communication is key

Before taking any steps toward selling your property, establishing open and clear lines of communication with your ex-spouse are a must. Clear, respectful dialogue is essential for making informed decisions together regarding selling your property. Together, discuss goals, timelines, finances and voice any concerns or preferences either of you may have regarding the sale. 

If both of your goals are to sell your property as fast as possible, consider the modern online auction route here at Smart Auction UK, where your property can be sold in as little as 28 days. See our quick and easy 5 step process to sell with us for more information.

If you are both on the legal title of the property you are looking to sell, then you will both need to consent to the property sale via your chosen method, as well as, give uniform instructions to your house conveyancing solicitor, further down the line. 

2. Get legal advice from a family and property solicitor

Seek guidance from legal professionals who specialise in family law and property law. They will be able to provide you with advice on your legal rights, obligations and how to handle the situation in relation to your ex-spouse, any children and property you are looking to sell.

They can also clearly outline the legal processes and any implications involved in selling your property post-divorce.

3. Evaluate financial considerations

Work out and assess all the financial aspects of the sale of your property. This can include: any outstanding mortgage balances you may have, equity division, tax implications and any associated costs such as estate agents fees or moving fees.

Consider how these fees can be reduced e.g. by selling your property for free with us, by way of modern online auction. Talk to one of our experts to find out how you can sell your property for free and keep 100% of the sale price, by valuing your home here or getting in touch below.

Consider how the sale proceeds will be divided between you and your ex-spouse, and ensure both of you are in agreement about it. You will also need to take other commitments, such as children, businesses, mutual dealings into account when making financial decisions.

4. Prepare the property

Prepare the property for sale by addressing any necessary repairs, decluttering, and consider whether you would benefit with home staging, to enhance its appeal to potential buyers. The more your property is well presented, the more likely it will attract interest and command a higher sale price.

If you dividing or selling more than one property in the course of your divorce, consider whether this has been vacant or if you have a tenant. Speak to an auction expert to find out whether it would be more beneficial to keep or evict your tenant, when selling your house via modern online auction. 

5. Choose the right property sale method

Decide on the most suitable method for selling the property, whether through a traditional listing with an estate agent or via free modern online auction. Consider factors such as current market conditions, time constraints, and how involved you want to be in the process.

Many people going through divorce choose to sell their property with us via modern online auction, as it can sell up to 4x faster, than with a traditional estate agent. It is also free to list and sell your property, so you will not be charged a penny.

Don’t know much about auction but want to find out more? See our process to sell your property with us. Unsure, as you have heard some things about auction over the years? See our 5 Myths about selling a property via auction, where we explain and debunk the most common misconceptions about online property auctions. 

6. Work with a property professional

Enlist the services of a reputable property professional, who has experience in handling divorce or separation-related property sales. An experienced agent can provide you with valuable guidance, property market insights and general advice, so that you can achieve the best outcome price, in a time frame to suit you.

Our specialists at Smart Auction UK have a wealth of experience dealing with sensitive and complicated situations surrounding divorce and property disposal. They are always available to speak to provide honest and transparent advice about your individual circumstances. Get in touch below and speak to a property expert today.

7. Stay away from cash buying companies

Whilst the temptation can be there for a quick and easy sale through a cash buying company, things aren’t always as great as advertised on the tin.

Do be weary of scaring tactics, pressure to sell your property and empty promises they may use. We have encountered countless situations, where people have been pressured to sell their property to a cash buying company, and then majority regretted getting involved with them in the first place. They typically offer people only 70% of the property value, which is a big hit. They go on to start the process, however on completion day, their offer suddenly goes down to 50% of the property value. Some people who need to sell their property fast fall into this trap and unfortunately lose a lot of money.

A much better option is to go down the modern online auction route. With us, you can sell your property in as little as 28 days, for free and for the right money. See more information on the process to sell with us, for a clear outline of how this works.

8. Maintain open communication

Throughout the house sales process, maintain ongoing communication with your ex-spouse and any other relevant parties, such as solicitors or property experts for a smooth and easier transaction.

Transparency and ongoing cooperation can help prevent misunderstandings and facilitate a much better and quicker transaction. Things can be sorted out and talked about quicker, which will be a benefit to everyone involved.

9. Focus on the future

As challenging as selling a property after divorce is, try to focus on the future and the opportunities it presents for a fresh start. Keep sight of your long-term goals after divorce and prioritise your emotional well-being as you navigate this transitional period in your life. Setting small and big goals, can provide a good balance and something to look forward to in the short and long term.

Conclusion

Selling a property after divorce is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning, clear communication, and cooperation between all parties involved. By approaching the process with patience, empathy, and a willingness to collaborate, you can navigate this chapter of your life with greater ease and pave the way for a brighter future ahead. No matter how dull it may seem at the time, there are brighter times ahead.

If you want to learn about the modern online auction, see if auction is right for you. To speak with us, give us a call on 0330 223 6118 or send us an enquiry.