Blog Stories 3 Things to Consider When Buying a Home During or After a Divorce

3 Things to Consider When Buying a Home During or After a Divorce

By Jenelle Etzel, May 13, 2023

Buying a home during or after a divorce can be especially challenging, you may not be totally clear on what you can afford, using marital assets to buy the home may give your spouse claim to ownership, and a home purchase can complicate your divorce proceedings.

I got divorced in 2011, our girls were ages 2 and 3. Owing a business and working full time while raising kids and working through our separation and divorce it felt more manageable to live apart. It’s always going to be easier to buy after a divorce is settled but the emotional well being of you and your family may be a larger consideration and a reason you want to buy before the divorce is settled.

If you do purchase during a divorce makes sure to do these three things;

1. Finalize your separation agreement.
2. Seek legal advice from a divorce attorney.
3. Confirm whether you’re in a community property state, in which property purchased during the marriage is held jointly on the basis of state law. Washington is, Oregon isn’t.

For creative financing options see my next post about buying on a contract. Call us today if you would like to find out more information or receive a consultation on what your options to make a move may be.

Jenelle Etzel

President & Owner, Licensed Broker OR

She/Her

What does being lead singer and guitar player in a female punk band have in common with starting a real estate company in the middle of a recession? Not many people can answer that question...
Read More
  • jenelle@livingroomre.com

You might also enjoy

Just Listed! Period Details, Perfect Location

Mel Marzahl

280 NE 60th Ave. #22 Portland, Oregon, 97213 Welcome to The View Condos—tucked into the heart...

Just Listed! Classic Charm Meets Modern Updates in the Heart of Overlook!

Jenson Sarr

1615 N. Webster St. Portland, Oregon, 97217 This home blends the beauty of original features—like hardwood...

When Waters Rise, So Should We: A Closing Day Reflection

Zoë Spring

When Waters Rise, So Should We: A Closing Day Reflection— by Zoë Spring Tomorrow, I’ll place...

Just Sold: West Linn Tri-Level

Mel Dorman

2940 ASCOT CIR West Linn, OR 97068 The Perfect Tri-Level – with a View! Recent updates...