How to Sell Your House During Divorce: Step-by-Step Guide for Illinois
One step at a time.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the process of selling a home amid a divorce with clarity and minimal stress. Selling the marital home during a divorce is nothing like a typical home sale. Remember, every situation is unique, so consult with legal and financial professionals for personalized advice. Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide from the real estate side of things
Step 1: Agree to Sell and Choose a Neutral Agent Together
In most home sales involving married couples, both spouses are on the title and need to sign off on the sale. What makes divorce different is that emotions, differing priorities, and reduced direct communication can turn even simple agreements into challenges.
The biggest early win: Mutually selecting a neutral agent both of you trust.
A divorce-specialized agent (ideally Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert) understands the dynamics and commits to treating both parties equally. No favoritism, just fairness.
They set up clear communication channels to prevent misunderstandings and keep the process moving forward smoothly.
Step 2: Get an Objective Home Valuation Both Sides Can Trust
In normal sales, sellers often push for the highest possible price. In divorce, one spouse might want top dollar while the other wants a quick sale.
Your neutral agent provides a thorough, data-backed Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) and explains it clearly to both parties.
This neutral valuation helps reduce arguments over “the house is worth more/less” and sets realistic expectations.
Step 3: Prepare the Home Even When Opinions Differ
Deciding on repairs, decluttering, or staging can spark disagreement. One spouse may want to invest in updates, the other may not.
Your agent offers objective recommendations based on what actually increases buyer appeal and return.
They mediate small disputes by showing market data and cost-vs-benefit analysis.
Depersonalizing is especially important in divorce to help both sellers emotionally detach and appeal to buyers.
Step 4: List the Home with Clear Communication Rules
Showings can feel invasive when emotions are raw.
Your agent sets up a clear protocol: All updates, feedback, and decisions go to both spouses (or their attorneys) at the same time.
They schedule showings thoughtfully and securely.
Step 5: Handle Showings and Feedback Without Finger-Pointing
Buyers may comment on cleanliness, odors, or clutter. Feedback that can feel personal in a divorce.
A neutral agent delivers feedback professionally and constructively, focusing on solutions rather than blame.
They keep both parties informed equally so no one feels left out or surprised.
Step 6: Review Offers Where Disagreements Often Surface
This is where divorce sales differ most: One spouse may love a lower but faster offer, while the other holds out for more money.
Your agent presents every offer in detail to both sides simultaneously, explaining pros/cons objectively.
They facilitate discussion to find common ground.
Their only goal is maximizing the net proceeds fairly. Not pleasing one spouse over the other.
Step 7: Navigate Inspections and Negotiations Calmly
Repair requests can trigger big emotions (“We just fixed that!” or “It’s not worth fixing!”).
Your neutral agent reviews inspection reports impartially and recommends responses based on what’s reasonable and likely to keep the deal together.
They negotiate repairs or credits without taking sides, protecting the sale for both of you.
Step 8: Close the Sale and Let Everyone Move On
At closing, emotions can peak again. Saying goodbye to the family home is hard.
Your agent coordinates final details smoothly, ensures all documents are accurate, and helps make the day as low-stress as possible.
Once sold, both of you receive your shares of the proceeds according to your agreement, closing one chapter and opening the next.
Why Divorce Sales Need Extra Care (and a Neutral Agent)
A regular home sale is about excitement and profit. A divorce sale is about fairness, closure, and reducing conflict. When spouses don’t always agree, a neutral professional becomes the steady voice that keeps things on track saving time, money, and emotional energy.
You deserve a sale that feels as fair and respectful as possible. With the right guidance, it’s absolutely achievable.
If you’re in Illinois and facing a divorce home sale, reach out for a confidential conversation. I specialize in helping both spouses sell smoothly and equitably. No pressure, just support.
Jillian Prodehl | Century 21 Integra | 630-809-8772 | jillianprodehl@gmail.com
