Selling a Home During Divorce or Separation in BC

A Patient, Clear Approach During a Difficult Life Transition

Divorce or separation is one of the most emotionally challenging transitions a person can experience. When a home is involved, the decisions can feel even heavier. Finances, timing, communication, and emotions are often all happening at once.

If you are considering selling a home during a divorce or separation in BC, it is important to know that you have options. Just as important, you deserve guidance that is patient, clear, and respectful of what you are going through.

This is where how you are supported matters.

Start With Understanding, Not Pressure

One of the biggest differences in how I work with separating couples is that I never rush the process. This is not a typical real estate transaction, and it should not be treated like one.

Before any decisions are made, I focus on helping you understand:

• Your options with the family home

• How timing and market conditions may impact value

• What makes sense financially and emotionally

• How communication and representation will be handled

Many people feel pressure to sell quickly just to move forward. In reality, slowing down and creating a thoughtful plan often leads to better outcomes for everyone involved.

Common Real Estate Options During Divorce or Separation

Every situation is unique, but these are the most common scenarios I help clients navigate.

Selling the home and dividing the proceeds
This is often the cleanest option when neither party wishes to keep the property. Pricing strategy, preparation, and agreement on terms are essential to avoid unnecessary conflict.

One party buying out the other
In this case, the home may not be listed publicly. Establishing fair market value is still critical so both parties feel confident in the outcome.

Waiting to sell
Some couples choose to wait until legal agreements are finalized or until market conditions are more favourable. When done intentionally, this can be a very practical decision.

There is no one size fits all answer. The right path depends on your circumstances and your comfort level.

Representation Options and How Communication Works

This is an area where clarity is especially important.

You have the option to:

• Have individual representation, where each party works with their own Realtor, or

• Work with one Realtor together, if the situation is amicable and both parties are comfortable

If you choose to work with me together, transparency and documentation are essential.

Here is how that process works:

• All terms and conditions must be agreed upon by both parties

• All decisions and changes are documented clearly

• Communication is typically handled via email or group chat if both parties are comfortable

• I can communicate with each party individually, however both parties must be made aware of all material changes and be in agreement before moving forward

This approach protects everyone involved and helps prevent misunderstandings.

How I Do Things Differently as Your Realtor

Selling a home during a divorce or separation requires more than market knowledge. It requires patience, emotional awareness, and clear communication.

My approach is different because:

• I prioritize calm, pressure free conversations

• I take the time to explain options clearly, without pushing decisions

• I focus on protecting both parties interests

• I understand that emotions and timelines may shift

• I treat this as a life transition, not just a transaction

My role is to be a steady, neutral guide who helps you move forward with clarity, not stress.

Why Strategy Matters in a Separation Sale

Selling during a separation involves additional layers that need to be handled carefully.

A thoughtful strategy considers:

• Current market conditions and buyer behaviour

• Preparation that maximizes value without unnecessary spending

• Flexibility if circumstances or timelines change

• Clear agreement on pricing, terms, and expectations

The goal is stability during a time that often feels uncertain.

A Supportive Final Thought

There is no perfect timeline and no single right decision. The best choice is the one that feels aligned with where you are right now.

If you are navigating a divorce or separation and have questions about selling your home in Langley or the Fraser Valley, even if you are not ready to take action, I am always here for a patient, no pressure conversation. Sometimes simply understanding your options can make everything feel a little more manageable.

Jen Murphy | Murphy Real Estate Group 

778-882-5478 | info@murphyreg.ca | Stonehaus Realty