One of the toughest things regardless of where you’re at in the divorce process – is finding a new home. Both of you can’t stay in your old home and if you’re the one looking for a new roof over your head, the process can be overwhelming for many. The specter of divorce is enough, moving is a whole other process unto itself.
Today, we’re going to give you some tips on how to find a new place once your divorce proceedings have begun that will hopefully take the edge off your search. Let’s jump right in.
Research your market
Due to supply and demand issues, we’re facing somewhat of a mini-housing crisis since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. This has resulted in prices that have been hiked higher than normal; so getting a handle on where the local market is at will be essential in determining what is available and what’s out of your price range.
There’s not a lot to be done here other than keeping your nose to the grindstone. Deals still pop up and if you loosen your standards a bit – you might be able to find something that really meets a lot of your needs.
Clean up lingering debt
The biggest roadblock to searching for a new home is debt and during the process of divorce some people’s credit can take a hit due to the change in income; and/or may change due to the de-co-mingling of finances. Make sure you know your credit report front and back and have a legitimate handle on what’s there and what isn’t. Whatever you can get rid of, certainly make every effort to do so.
Take a fresh inventory of what you need
Divorce, while painful in many regards – can be a completely new, fresh start for others. Take an inventory yourself of what’s most important to, well, you. What are the things you MUST have? What are the things you need? Will kids be coming over or living with you? Is there spare space you can get that you could potentially rent out to friends to ease the burden? Explore all your options and have a clear idea of what it is you’re looking for.
Lean on your support network
One of the most valuable things you can do is lean on your support network of family and friends. Buying a home might not be realistic right off the bat. You may need a place to land for a little while as you think things through. But don’t just lean on their good will – lean on their expertise as well! They may be able to offer you something others can’t that can lighten the burden. Maybe you know a home inspector. Maybe a friend is a realtor. As is always the case in any life changing situation – lean on those who care the most about you.
Hopefully you found today’s blog helpful. If you’d like to explore your options or learn more, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today. Until then – good luck!
