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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.


How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent for a Divorce Sale
Choosing the right real estate agent for a divorce sale is key to ensuring a fair and smooth property division process. Key Takeaways Look for a real estate agent with experience in divorce sales who understands the unique challenges involved. A Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert brings specialized training and knowledge to help divorcing couples navigate property sales. Strong communication and mediation skills are essential for balancing the needs of both parties. Choose

Lisa McNally
Jun 24, 20254 min read


Dividing Home Equity in a Divorce: What You Need to Know
Key Takeaways Home equity is a significant marital asset and must be carefully assessed during divorce proceedings. Options for dividing home equity include selling the home, one spouse buying out the other, or co-owning temporarily. Determining the home’s value through an appraisal or market analysis is a critical first step. Refinancing may be necessary if one spouse decides to keep the home. Consulting a divorce mediator or real estate expert can simplify the process and e

Lisa McNally
Jun 17, 20253 min read


Preparing Your Home for Divorce Showings While Living There
A clean and organized kitchen creates a welcoming space for potential buyers, helping them envision their future in your home. Key Takeaways Decluttering and depersonalizing your home creates a welcoming environment for potential buyers. Keeping your home clean and staged, even while living there, is essential for making a strong impression. Flexible scheduling and communication with your real estate agent can reduce stress during showings. Establishing routines for quick tid

Lisa McNally
Jun 10, 20253 min read


Appraisal vs. Market Analysis: What’s the Best Option in a Divorce?
Key Takeaways: Divorce courts strongly prefer licensed appraisals over CMAs in contested cases. A Licensed Real Estate Appraisal is objective, court-admissible, and follows professional standards (USPAP). A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is a helpful tool for estimating value but lacks legal standing in court. CMAs may work in amicable or mediated divorces when both parties agree on property value. If property value will affect alimony, equity splits, or buyouts, an apprai

Lisa McNally
Jun 1, 20252 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


Should You Use a Quitclaim Deed in Your Divorce? Pros and Cons
Key Takeaways A quitclaim deed can be one way to transfer property ownership during a divorce, but it’s important to understand its purpose and limitations. This type of deed is often used when one spouse keeps the marital home and the other agrees to relinquish ownership. While it can simplify the transfer of ownership, a quitclaim deed does not remove financial responsibility for the mortgage. Understanding the pros and cons can help you have informed discussions with your

Lisa McNally
May 13, 20253 min read


How to Handle Joint Ownership of a Home After Divorce
Key Takeaways Joint ownership of a home after divorce requires clear communication and a formal agreement. Decide whether to sell, buy out, or retain shared ownership based on financial and practical considerations. Co-owning temporarily can provide stability for children or accommodate market conditions. Responsibilities for mortgage payments, taxes, and maintenance must be clearly defined. Consulting with a divorce mediator and real estate expert can simplify the process an

Lisa McNally
May 6, 20253 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


Who Gets the House During a Divorce? Key Factors to Know
Key Takeaways Deciding who gets the house during a divorce depends on factors like ownership, financial feasibility, and the best interests of children. States follow either community property or equitable distribution laws to divide assets, including real estate. Options for the marital home include selling, one spouse buying out the other, or co-ownership. Emotional and financial considerations play a significant role in real estate decisions during divorce. A divorce media

Lisa McNally
Apr 15, 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


Bird-Nesting: Can It Work for Your Family After Divorce?
Key Takeaways Bird-nesting allows children to remain in the family home while parents rotate in and out. This arrangement can minimize disruption for children during a divorce transition. Bird-nesting requires clear communication and boundaries between parents. Financial and logistical considerations are essential for success. Consulting with a divorce mediator and real estate expert can help determine if bird-nesting is feasible. Bird-nesting is often a temporary solution an

Lisa McNally
Mar 25, 20253 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


How Divorce Mediation Can Simplify Real Estate Decisions
Key Takeaways Divorce mediation provides a neutral, collaborative environment for resolving real estate disputes. Mediators help both parties explore options like selling, buying out, or co-owning the marital home. Mediation often saves time and money compared to litigation. The process fosters better communication, reducing conflict and promoting fair outcomes. Working with a mediator who understands real estate ensures decisions are informed and practical. Mediation helps p

Lisa McNally
Mar 11, 20253 min read


Should You Keep the Family Home for the Kids During Divorce?
Key Takeaways Keeping the family home can provide emotional stability for children during a divorce. Financial feasibility is a critical factor in deciding whether to keep the home. Consider the long-term implications, including maintenance costs and property taxes. Selling the home and relocating may offer a fresh start for both parents and children. Consulting with a divorce real estate expert can help evaluate your options and make informed decisions. Each family’s situati

Lisa McNally
Mar 4, 20254 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


How to Sell Your House During a Divorce: A Step-by-Step Guide
Key Takeaways Selling your house during a divorce can simplify asset division and provide financial clarity. Proper preparation, including staging and repairs, can help maximize your home’s value. Working with a divorce real estate expert ensures a neutral, professional approach. Timing your sale strategically can impact how quickly and profitably your home sells. Transparent communication with your spouse and real estate agent is crucial to a smooth process. Consulting profe

Lisa McNally
Feb 18, 20253 min read


What Happens to the Marital Home in a Divorce? Options to Consider
Key Takeaways The marital home is often the most valuable asset in a divorce and requires careful consideration. Options for the marital home typically include selling, one spouse buying out the other, or co-owning temporarily. Each option has unique financial, legal, and emotional implications that must be evaluated. Factors such as children, affordability, and market conditions often influence the decision. Consulting with a divorce real estate expert can provide clarity an

Lisa McNally
Feb 11, 20253 min read
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