How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent When You're Divorcing
- Lisa McNally
- Jul 21
- 4 min read
Navigating divorce is never easy, and when the marital home is involved, emotions and financial stakes can escalate quickly. One of the most important decisions you'll make during this process is selecting the right real estate agent. If you're divorcing, the wrong agent can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. The right one, however—particularly someone with expertise in divorce-related real estate—can make a significant difference in outcomes for both parties.
As a Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE), Licensed Real Estate Broker, and Divorce Coach, I’ve helped countless clients across the country navigate this emotionally charged transition with clarity and professionalism. At Optimal Divorce Solutions, I combine my real estate and divorce expertise to help you make confident, informed decisions about your property.
Why Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent Matters in Divorce
Divorce Adds Complexity to Real Estate Transactions
Divorce isn’t just a personal transition—it’s a legal and financial one. When property is involved, tensions can run high. The right agent understands:
The legal implications of selling property during or after divorce
How to communicate neutrally with both parties
How to navigate real estate decisions that are intertwined with custody arrangements, support payments, and financial settlements
What Is a Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE)?
A CDRE is specially trained to handle the unique challenges of real estate transactions during divorce. This designation signifies advanced education in:
Family law principles
Conflict management and neutrality
Property valuation for divorce settlements
Working collaboratively with attorneys, mediators, and financial professionals
As a CDRE, I bring an unmatched level of experience to help protect your financial interests while minimizing emotional strain.
Key Qualities to Look For in a Divorce-Savvy Real Estate Agent
1. Divorce-Specific Training and Credentials
Look for agents with certifications such as CDRE or similar. These professionals understand the divorce process and the impact it has on real estate decisions.
2. Neutrality and Professionalism
An experienced divorce agent knows how to avoid taking sides. This neutrality ensures that both parties feel heard, respected, and protected.
3. Strong Communication Skills
You need someone who can:
Keep both parties informed without bias
Communicate effectively with legal professionals
Maintain boundaries when emotions are high
4. Experience in High-Stakes Transactions
High-net-worth or gray divorce cases often involve luxury homes, vacation properties, or investment real estate. Your agent should be confident handling these types of assets.
How I Help My Clients at Optimal Divorce Solutions
When I represent divorcing homeowners, I don’t just list a property. I provide a structured, respectful, and conflict-reducing process that includes:
A comprehensive pre-listing consultation with both parties
Accurate, impartial market analysis
Strategic marketing designed to appeal to the right buyers
Clear communication throughout the transaction
In New Hampshire and Maine, I bring the added benefit of local market expertise and luxury home sales experience. Nationally, I serve clients virtually and collaborate with attorneys, mediators, and financial professionals to streamline every step.
Mistakes to Avoid When Selecting a Real Estate Agent During Divorce
Choosing Based on Emotion or Loyalty
Avoid choosing a family friend, your past agent, or someone connected to just one spouse. Neutrality is critical.
Ignoring Divorce-Specific Expertise
Most agents are not trained in how divorce impacts real estate sales, division of proceeds, or timing around court orders and mediation.
Underestimating the Emotional Component
Your agent must be able to navigate high-conflict situations with calm and confidence.
How Divorce Impacts Property Sales
Timing and Court Orders
In some cases, you’ll need a court’s permission to list or sell the property. A qualified agent can help coordinate the process and work with your attorney or mediator.
Division of Proceeds
An experienced divorce agent understands how the proceeds from a home sale may need to be divided, placed in escrow, or used to satisfy joint debts.
Future Housing Needs
If you plan to purchase new homes after selling, the right agent can help with both the sale and your future home search.
As both a CDRE and a Divorce Financial Analyst, I often help clients evaluate:
Whether to sell or refinance
The impact of keeping the home on future affordability
How property fits into the larger financial picture
Key Takeaways
Divorce real estate is not a standard transaction—specialized training matters.
Choose an agent who is neutral, experienced, and trained in divorce-related property issues.
CDREs are equipped to support high-net-worth, emotionally complex, and legally sensitive situations.
A CDRE can help reduce conflict, improve outcomes, and protect your long-term financial well-being.
Call to Action: If you’re going through a divorce and unsure how to handle the sale of your home, I can help. Schedule your free, confidential real estate consultation with me today at www.LisasCalendar.com. Let’s make sure you’re protected every step of the way.
Lisa McNally
Certified Divorce Coach | Certified Divorce Mediator
Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®) | Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE)
Licensed Real Estate Broker (NH & ME)
Founder, Optimal Divorce Solutions
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