Common Mistakes to Avoid in Real Estate Decisions During Divorce
Selling a home during divorce is rarely simple. With emotions running high and financial futures on the line, even small missteps can lead to costly delays, lost equity, or legal complications. The good news? Most of these mistakes are avoidable with the right guidance and planning.
As a Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE), I help homeowners navigate this complex process every day. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common real estate mistakes divorcing couples make, how to avoid them, and what you need to know to keep your Arizona home sale on track.
Why Divorce Home Sales Are Different
Divorce adds a layer of complexity to selling a home that most traditional real estate transactions don’t face. There are competing priorities, court orders to follow, and often, limited communication between spouses.
Without a clear plan and an experienced professional, these challenges can quickly lead to mistakes that cost both parties valuable time and money.
Mistake #1: Ignoring Court Orders
[Arizona Insight:] In Arizona, divorce decrees often specify how and when the home must be sold. If either party violates these orders—by refusing to list, delaying paperwork, or blocking showings—the court may impose penalties or even appoint a Special Real Estate Commissioner to oversee the sale.
Avoid It: Review your court orders carefully with your attorney and ensure you understand your obligations before listing the property.
Mistake #2: Overpricing the Home
Setting an unrealistic asking price is one of the most common mistakes divorcing couples make. Often, each spouse has different expectations about the home’s value, leading to tension and a listing price that scares off buyers.
The Risk: Homes priced too high tend to sit on the market longer, ultimately selling for less after price reductions.
Avoid It: Work with a CDRE who can provide a market analysis grounded in current data and help both parties agree on a realistic price.
Mistake #3: Delaying the Sale
In some cases, couples delay listing the home, hoping the situation will “settle down.” But waiting too long often backfires.
The Risk:
You may miss the best season to sell in Arizona’s competitive market.
The home could lose value if market conditions shift.
Ongoing mortgage payments and maintenance costs can drain both parties financially.
Avoid It: Commit to a clear timeline for listing and selling the home. The sooner you start, the sooner both parties can move forward.
Mistake #4: Failing to Prepare the Home for Sale
A home that isn’t properly prepared will attract fewer buyers and lower offers.
The Risk: Leftover personal property, deferred maintenance, or poor staging can make a negative impression on potential buyers.
Avoid It: Work with your agent to ensure the home is clean, decluttered, and show-ready. Resolve personal property issues before listing to avoid last-minute conflicts.
Mistake #5: Choosing the Wrong Real Estate Agent
Not all agents are equipped to handle divorce real estate sales. Choosing someone without the experience to navigate legal orders, work neutrally with both parties, and communicate effectively with attorneys can create unnecessary challenges.
Avoid It: Hire a Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert. As a CDRE, I understand the unique dynamics of divorce sales and can help you avoid conflict while protecting your interests.
Real-Life Example: The Cost of Delay
A divorcing couple in Scottsdale couldn’t agree on a listing price and delayed putting their home on the market for six months. During that time, interest rates rose and comparable home values in their neighborhood fell by 5%. When they finally listed, they received an offer $40,000 less than what they might have secured earlier.
How a CDRE Helps Keep Your Sale on Track
As a neutral third-party, I:
✅ Coordinate with attorneys and both spouses to streamline communication. ✅ Ensure court orders and deadlines are followed. ✅ Provide market data and professional advice to keep emotions from derailing decisions. ✅ Manage the logistics of the sale so you can focus on moving forward.
Final Thoughts: Start Smart, Finish Strong
Selling your home during divorce doesn’t have to be overwhelming—but avoiding these common mistakes is critical to protecting your time, money, and peace of mind.
📞 Call, text, or email me today to discuss how I can help you navigate your divorce home sale smoothly. Together, we’ll create a plan that avoids the pitfalls and gets you to closing day with confidence.