Whether to sell the house or not depends on various factors, and it's essential to weigh the pros and cons based on your unique situation. Here are some things to consider:
Emotional attachment: Consider your emotional attachment to the house and whether selling it would help both parties move on and start anew or if either spouse has a strong desire to keep the property.
Financial implications: Evaluate the financial aspects of keeping the house. Can either spouse afford the mortgage, property taxes, maintenance, and other expenses on their own? Are there any outstanding debts or mortgages on the property that need to be settled?
Children's well-being: If there are children involved, consider how staying or moving out of the house will affect them. Stability and familiar surroundings can be important for children during a divorce, but financial viability must also be taken into account.
Shared ownership: If both spouses are listed as joint owners on the property, they'll need to come to an agreement about who will retain ownership or if it's in both parties' best interest to sell and divide the proceeds.
Emotional well-being: Divorce is a challenging time, and living in the same house with your ex-spouse can be emotionally taxing. Some couples might find it difficult to cohabit during the divorce process and may prefer to sell the house.
Real estate market conditions: Consider the current state of the real estate market. Selling the house might make more sense if it's a seller's market, ensuring a better return on investment.
Legal advice: Consult with a divorce attorney or legal professional to understand the legal implications of keeping or selling the house in your specific jurisdiction.
It's important to communicate openly with your spouse and try to reach an amicable decision that takes both parties' interests into account. If you find it challenging to agree on the house's disposition, a mediator may be helpful in facilitating discussions and finding a resolution that works for both of you.