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Certified Divorce Coach, Divorce Mediator, Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®),
Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE®), Licensed Real Estate Broker
NH Based | Virtual Services Nationwide
(603) 617-0806 | OptimalDivorceSolutions@gmail.com

Divorce Insights Blog
Expert guidance to help you navigate divorce with
clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.
Divorce, Real Estate & Financial Clarity Blog
Expert articles on divorce coaching, mediation, financial planning, and real estate decisions.
Divorce is overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone. Explore practical advice on mediation, financial clarity, and real estate decisions to move forward with confidence.


7 Mistakes to Avoid When Selling a Home During Divorce
Selling a home during divorce without the right guidance can quickly turn into conflict and frustration for everyone involved. Selling your home is never easy—but selling it during a divorce can be emotionally draining, legally complex, and financially risky. As a Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE), I’ve worked with many divorcing couples throughout New Hampshire and Maine to help them navigate the sale of their home with clarity and confidence. When luxury real esta

Lisa McNally
Jul 6, 20254 min read


Top Real Estate Mistakes to Avoid in Divorce
Real Estate Mistakes to Avoid in Divorce Dividing real estate during a divorce is one of the most complex—and emotionally charged—decisions you’ll face. The family home is not just a major financial asset; it also carries deep sentimental value. However, making a misstep with real estate during divorce can lead to long-term financial strain, legal complications, and unexpected tax consequences. At Optimal Divorce Solutions, I help clients avoid these costly mistakes and make

Lisa McNally
Jun 30, 20254 min read


What to Look for in a Home as a Newly Single Homeowner
Every piece matters when finding the perfect home as a newly single homeowner. From location and property value to neighbors and quality of life, it’s about putting together the puzzle that fits your new lifestyle. Key Takeaways Prioritize affordability and financial sustainability when choosing your next home. Consider location, proximity to work, family, and amenities that support your lifestyle. Focus on manageable size and maintenance to align with your new circumstances.

Lisa McNally
Jun 3, 20253 min read


Best Times of Year to Sell a Home During Divorce
Key Takeaways Spring is often considered the best season to sell a home due to higher buyer activity and favorable weather. Summer can be ideal for families wanting to settle before the school year begins. Fall offers motivated buyers and less competition, making it a viable option for sellers. Winter sales can still be successful with the right strategies, such as targeting serious buyers and staging for warmth. Market trends, location, and personal circumstances are critica

Lisa McNally
May 20, 20254 min read


Can You Afford to Keep the House After Divorce? 5 Questions to Ask
Key Takeaways Assessing the affordability of keeping the marital home requires a thorough understanding of your post-divorce financial situation. Consider ongoing expenses, such as mortgage payments, taxes, and maintenance costs, when evaluating your ability to keep the home. Refinancing the mortgage in one spouse’s name is often necessary and depends on credit and income qualifications. Emotional attachments to the home should be balanced with practical financial considerati

Lisa McNally
Apr 29, 20253 min read


Top Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Home During Divorce
Key Takeaways Emotional decisions can lead to financial losses when selling a home during divorce. Lack of communication between spouses can cause delays and misunderstandings. Skipping proper staging and repairs may decrease your home’s market value. Failing to work with a real estate expert can make the process more stressful and less efficient. Setting an unrealistic price often leads to longer time on the market. Understanding and avoiding common mistakes ensures a smooth

Lisa McNally
Apr 22, 20253 min read


Building Financial Stability After Divorce With A Post-Divorce Budget
Key Takeaways Why is creating a post-divorce budget important? A realistic budget helps you manage your finances, reduce stress, and regain control of your financial future. What should be included in a post-divorce budget? Account for all sources of income, fixed expenses, variable costs, and savings goals. How can budgeting help you plan for financial stability? It provides clarity on your financial situation and helps prioritize spending and saving. What tools or resour

Lisa McNally
Apr 16, 20253 min read


Staging Your Home for Sale During Divorce: Quick and Easy Tips
Key Takeaways Staging your home helps it sell faster and often at a higher price, even during a divorce. Decluttering and depersonalizing create a neutral environment that appeals to buyers. Simple upgrades, such as fresh paint and minor repairs, can make a big difference. Highlighting your home’s best features ensures it stands out in a competitive market. Working with a divorce real estate expert can make the process less stressful and more effective. Small investments in s

Lisa McNally
Apr 8, 20253 min read


How to Budget for a New Home After Divorce
Key Takeaways Creating a realistic post-divorce budget is essential before purchasing a new home. Understanding your income, expenses, and financial obligations helps determine how much home you can afford. Factors like credit score, down payment, and debt-to-income ratio influence your mortgage options. Consulting with a real estate expert ensures you make informed decisions tailored to your financial situation. A divorce financial analyst can help align your housing budget

Lisa McNally
Apr 1, 20253 min read


Selling Your Home During Divorce: Spring Market Tips
Spring is the busiest season for real estate, making it an ideal time to sell your marital home during divorce. With the right preparation and guidance, you can maximize your home’s value and ensure a smooth selling process. Tips for Selling Your Home This Spring Stage for Success: Clean, declutter, and add seasonal touches like fresh flowers to enhance appeal. Work with a Divorce Real Estate Expert: A professional experienced in divorce-related sales can navigate the uniqu

Lisa McNally
Mar 31, 20251 min read


How the Housing Market Affects Divorced Sellers and Buyers
Key Takeaways The housing market directly impacts the timing, pricing, and strategy for divorced sellers and buyers. Understanding market trends, such as buyer’s or seller’s markets, can help divorcing couples make informed decisions. Rising interest rates can increase costs for buyers and limit refinancing options for sellers. A divorce real estate expert can provide insights to navigate market fluctuations effectively. The emotional and financial stakes are high during divo

Lisa McNally
Mar 18, 20253 min read


Maximizing Your Tax Refund: Financial Planning for Divorced Individuals
Tax season is here, and your tax refund can be a valuable tool for financial planning post-divorce. Whether you’re looking to pay down debt, save for a new home, or invest in your future, smart strategies can make a big difference. Ways to Use Your Tax Refund Wisely Pay Down Debt: Reduce high-interest credit card debt to improve your financial stability. Invest in Housing: Use your refund for a down payment on a new home or to cover moving expenses. Create an Emergency Fund

Lisa McNally
Mar 17, 20251 min read


How to Protect Your Credit During Divorce
Key Takeaways Why is protecting your credit during divorce important? It safeguards your financial future and ensures you maintain financial independence. What steps can you take to protect your credit? Monitor your credit score, separate joint accounts, and ensure timely bill payments. How does divorce impact your credit? Joint accounts, shared debts, and missed payments can negatively affect your credit history. What tools can help manage your credit? Credit monitoring

Lisa McNally
Feb 26, 20253 min read


How Refinancing a Home Works After Divorce
Key Takeaways Refinancing a home after divorce allows one spouse to keep the property while removing the other from the mortgage. The process typically involves applying for a new loan in one spouse’s name. Lenders will assess income, credit score, and debt-to-income ratio to determine eligibility. An accurate home appraisal is essential to understand equity and set fair terms. Refinancing can provide funds to buy out a spouse’s share of equity. Consulting with a divorce real

Lisa McNally
Feb 25, 20253 min read


Preparing for Spring: Is It Time to Sell Your Marital Home?
As spring approaches, many divorcing couples consider selling their marital home. Whether you need a fresh start or are simplifying your finances, this is a significant decision that requires careful planning. Signs It’s Time to Sell Financial Incompatibility: If maintaining the home is financially unsustainable for either party. Emotional Closure: Moving out can help both individuals embrace a new chapter. Equity Split: Selling allows you to divide assets fairly and reinv

Lisa McNally
Feb 17, 20251 min read


Maximizing Your Tax Refund During Divorce: Smart Ways to Plan for Your Future
Tax season is here, and for those going through a divorce, your tax refund can play a crucial role in your financial planning. Whether you’re considering mediation, saving for a fresh start, or investing in a new home, making smart decisions about your refund is key. How Your Tax Refund Can Support Your Divorce Journey Cover Mediation Costs: Mediation is a cost-effective way to resolve disputes amicably. Your tax refund can help you afford professional mediation services. Sa

Lisa McNally
Feb 10, 20251 min read


New Year, New Budget: Managing Finances During Divorce
Divorce brings significant changes, particularly in finances. The start of a new year is the perfect time to take control of your financial situation and create a budget that reflects your new reality. Whether you’re just starting the divorce process or finalizing details, financial planning is key to setting yourself up for success. Understanding Your Financial Picture List Your Assets and Liabilities : Know what you own and what you owe. This includes properties, retirement

Lisa McNally
Jan 20, 20252 min read
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