Getting divorced, selling a home?
Pro tips for a smoother split
Separation agreement: step one when divorcing and selling a home
Tom has seen the chaos that often ensues when couples sell a home without first having lawyers draft a formal separation agreement. “If there is a disagreement later— about who should get what percentage of the home sale proceeds— all the money gets locked up and held in trust while the dispute is settled.”
Simply put, he says, it means you’re not going to see that money for a while. “It’s sitting there, earning nothing, and you can’t spend it. And now, lawyers— who should have been involved before the sale— have to get involved after.” In a fast-moving real estate market, you certainly don’t want your share of the equity sitting around earning no interest while you spend thousands of dollars on a stressful legal dispute!
Invest in lawyers before the home sale, get your money faster
“When couples split, it’s often extremely emotional,” Tom says. “Grief, anger, and resentment about the past can make it hard to think clearly about the present and the future. For this reason alone, each person should hire their own family law expert.” Peter DeMeo is a real estate lawyer, not a family lawyer— but he has seen plenty of couples run into trouble when they hurry to sell a property before there is a legal separation agreement in place.
“When you’re undoing a relationship, married or not, you’re separating yourselves financially,” Peter explains. “The process of financially separating yourself from your partner or spouse should be formally summarized in a separation agreement. This agreement is important to me as a real estate lawyer, because it spells out clearly how the financial proceeds are going to be distributed.”
A dispute after a sale can be a long process. “And ironically, if you tried to save money by not hiring lawyers, a dispute will likely cost more in legal fees,” he counsels. “Best to invest in a separation agreement, negotiated by lawyers, before you sell your home.”
List home professionally to speed sale, avoid conflicts
With a professional realtor like Tom Hopper selling the family home, it’s easier for a divorcing couple to agree on the listing price and conditions. This also helps speed up the sale. “I’m not on anybody’s side,” Tom says. “My goal is to get them the most money I can for their house. If for some reason one or the other feels they needs their own realtor, it’s ok with me to co-list. It’s not required, but it’s not a problem.”
Separating couples might be tempted to save a commission fee by selling the home themselves, but this is ill-advised, Peter says, especially when the property is being divided. “We’re in a society now where everybody wants to DIY,” he says. “Everyone’s got Google lawyer, Google realtor at the ready. It doesn’t always turn out well.”
“What we do is pretty complex,” Tom agrees. “There’s ethical issues, conflict issues— financial, tax, and legal issues. It’s hard to glean all of that off of the internet.” And when your relationship is ending, says Peter, “it’s an emotionally challenging time. It’s not a good time to try to learn complex things.”
When home is sold, don’t wait to buy back in
A separation agreement spells out who will get what percentage of the sale of the couple’s home. Ultimately, that means each party can have their money distributed to them quickly, “so you can have the liquidity and funds to purchase your next home,” Tom says. “You want to get back into the real estate market as soon as possible. So having that agreement in place makes it so you can go out and shop.”
If one of you has enough money to buy the other out, then you keep that house. Otherwise, it’s unlikely either person will be able to have the buying power to replicate the current home after the split. Tom’s suggestion is to take whatever number you think your budget will be, and explore options. “What do I get for x dollars on realtor.ca? That reality check can be something that can help you prepare yourself emotionally.
Adjust your expectations when buying back in
It was initially a shock when “M” found herself divorced with two young children. Her first impulse was to buy a house similar to the one she and her ex had lived in together. “I quickly realized that taking on even a small heritage home was more than I could manage on my own,” she says. “The sheer volume of tasks for one adult— who isn’t handy— was overwhelming for me as a single mom.”
The loss of neighbourhood, the familiar routines, and the comforts of home were all things M had to honestly grieve. First, though, she had to buy back into the market, and “right size” her home for herself and her kids. For her, the “right size” home was a three-bedroom condo. “I balked at first, but I’ve learned to look at the gifts in this situation. Less to clean, less to maintain, and the responsibilities for maintenance are shared with others. Honestly, I prefer this, even though I resisted it and cried many tears.”
Recap: five pro tips for selling a home when you split
While it’s hard to look toward the future while grieving the losses, Tom says it’s important to get yourself into a new, right-size home— right away. His clarity and straight-forward, compassionate approach means clients can “move quickly on something that is appropriate so they can have a new home and get settled.”
Here are five pro tips from Tom Hopper for transitioning from couple to single, and buying your “right-size” home.
- Each party hires a family lawyer, and a separation agreement is put in place.
- Get a realtor to give you a realistic idea about what the current home is worth, or go online and see what has sold recently in your neighbourhood.
- Know exactly how much equity you’re going to pull out of that home sale. That way, you don’t waste everybody’s time. If you think you can afford something you can’t afford, you’ll just frustrate yourself.
- Get pre-approved, by a bank, for a mortgage based on your equity and income.
- Shop inside your budget, find an appropriate home, and move quickly so you can get settled.
-
4839 Fillinger Cres in Nanaimo: Na North Nanaimo Single Family Residence for sale : MLS®# 1036535
4839 Fillinger Cres Nanaimo V9V 1K1 
$1,320,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1036535
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 2,782 sq. ft.
Set in one of North Nanaimo’s most desirable executive neighbourhoods, this beautifully updated home delivers sweeping ocean & mountain views from the main living spaces. Originally built as the builder’s personal residence, it has been thoughtfully upgraded in recent years with quality finishes. Highlights include a new kitchen with 10′ x 4′ quartz island & butler’s pantry, wide plank white oak flooring, newer high-end appliances incl. 48" fridge and a renovated main bath. Mechanical updates are extensive: newer furnace & heat pump, on-demand hot water, and a newer roof. Additional features incl. solid core doors & glass-railed front decking. Out back, stairs lead up to a private outlook with stunning panoramic views. Main level offers 3 beds 2 baths, while the lower level provides a 1 bed in-law suite with den, plus a separate office. A rare opportunity in a stunning pocket of executive homes on a quiet no-through street near a cul-de-sac. More detailsListed by Real Broker- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
-
1404 989 Johnson St in Victoria: Vi Downtown Condo for sale : MLS®# 1036556
1404 989 Johnson St Victoria V8V 0E3
$499,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1036556
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 654 sq. ft.
Absolutely gorgeous 1 bed 1 bath unit now available in the sought after 989 Johnson! Purchased directly from the developer, and now ready for new owners, this coveted unit located on the NW corner of the West building and perfectly situated on the 14th floor, you will love the spectacular views from every window! Amazing sunsets! Fabulous steel and concrete construction. Hardwood floors, quartz countertops, top quality fit and finishing throughout. Pet friendly! Plenty of natural light. Secure underground parking spot included! This functional floor plan truly is an urban oasis with a vibrant downtown living style! If you love Boutique shops, cafes, exceptional restaurants, local grocers, pubs, famous Beacon Hill Park, Dallas Road oceanfront plus live theatre, fitness centres and spa options – then this is for you. Investor alert: Invest now for a long term financial gain in this solid building. You’ll be glad you did. Welcome home! More detailsListed by Royal LePage Coast Capital – Chatterton- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
-
2651 Capital Hts in Victoria: Vi Oaklands Half Duplex for sale : MLS®# 1036327
2651 Capital Hts Victoria V8T 3M1
$1,100,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1036327
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 1,884 sq. ft.
An impeccable 3-bdrm, 3-bath 1/2 duplex with no shared walls awaits! Centrally located on a quiet street near amenities, parks, and public transit, this home offers convenience and tranquility, with city & mountain views. Move-in ready, it features new luxury engineered hw floors, new carpeting, fresh paint, and newly landscaped yard.The generous fenced yard is ideal for gatherings, kids, or gardening enthusiast. The top level offers a well laid out kitchen complemented by a Fisher & Paykel fridge & other stainless steel appliances, with eating area, dining rm, and living rm that are filled with natural light from the skylight in the vaulted ceiling. The primary bdrm includes a walk-through closet & ensuite, while a 2nd bdrm and full bthrm complete the level.The lower level provides excellent flexibility w/ potential for a suite, in-law accommodation, or recreation space w/ an additional bdrm, full bthrm, laundry, & ground-level access to backyard patio & front entrance. Extra parking. More detailsListed by Sutton Group West Coast Realty- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
-
3082 McCauley Dr in Nanaimo: Na Departure Bay Single Family Residence for sale : MLS®# 1036449
3082 McCauley Dr Nanaimo V9T 1V8
$749,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1036449
- Bedrooms:
- 6
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 2,136 sq. ft.
Attention investors and large families! Sitting on a 0.18 acre lot, this fantastic 2136 sq.ft. home in Departure Bay boasts 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an in-law suite with its own laundry and kitchen which could be a great mortgage helper. Upstairs offers 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and a bright & spacious dining/living room with access to the back deck. The ground level offers 1 more bedroom that is part of the main house as well as an in-law suite with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. There is also a large unfinished storage room that could be used as a workshop. The fairly flat and usable backyard has excellent privacy, is partially fenced, and has a great garden area. This home is just a short walk to many amenities including Country Club Centre, public transit, and Nanaimo Golf Club. Other features include a gas furnace, wood-burning fireplace, and locking storage room for your e-bike and other items! All info and data approximate. More detailsListed by REMAX Professionals (NA)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
-
2765 Fernwood Rd in Victoria: Vi Oaklands Single Family Residence for sale : MLS®# 1036562
2765 Fernwood Rd Victoria V8T 3A3
$865,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1036562
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,214 sq. ft.
Single-level living in the heart of Oaklands! A 1959 home that’s been quietly cared for, with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a large den that works as a third bedroom or office (no closet). The living room flows to the kitchen and eating area, which opens onto the composite deck. A heat pump keeps things comfortable year-round, the fenced yard takes kids, dogs, or a vegetable garden, and a carport keeps the car dry. The storage is a real surprise: a dry crawl-space with a workshop area and windows looking out to the yard! Step out the front door and you’re a ten-minute walk to Haultain Corners, a fourteen-minute walk to Fernwood Square for the Belfry and Cornerstone Cafe, or a four-minute drive to Hillside Centre. One of the most walkable corners of Victoria! A great spot to start out, slow down, or settle in. PRE-INSPECTION AVAILABLE. More detailsListed by Royal LePage Coast Capital – Oak Bay- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
-
6357 Shambrook Dr in Sooke: Sk Sunriver Single Family Residence for sale : MLS®# 1036529
6357 Shambrook Dr Sooke V9Z 0Y4
$549,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1036529
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,171 sq. ft.
Welcome to RiversEdge Village, a gated adult-oriented community in desirable Sunriver Estates surrounded by parkland, scenic trails, and the Sooke River. This immaculate 3 bedroom, 2 bath rancher offers 1,171 sq.ft. of comfortable one-level living on a sunny 5,048 sq.ft. lot backing onto peaceful forest. Bright open-concept design featuring a spacious kitchen with quartz counters, white cabinetry, and seamless flow to the dining and living areas. Large rear windows overlook the beautifully landscaped backyard. The primary suite includes a walk-in closet and private 3-piece ensuite. Single garage with workshop space plus extra parking. Enjoy the community clubhouse and convenient location close to shopping, amenities, Seaparc Leisure Centre, and easy access to the Westshore. Affordable low-maintenance living at its best! More detailsListed by RE/MAX Camosun- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
-
1395 Hampshire Rd in Oak Bay: OB South Oak Bay Single Family Residence for sale : MLS®# 1034669
1395 Hampshire Rd Oak Bay V8S 4T5
$3,098,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1034669
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 4
- Floor Area:
- 3,724 sq. ft.
What if you could leave your car at home and live in one of Oak Bay Village’s most iconic modern homes? Welcome to Thirteen Ninety Five – a custom-built architectural residence thoughtfully designed for how you want to live today and into the future. Exceptional attention to detail is evident throughout, with curated materials, seamless indoor-outdoor living, and spaces that feel inspiring and deeply functional. Morning light pours into the kitchen while NanaWall doors blur the line between inside and out, creating an effortless connection to the outdoor entertaining spaces. The main-level primary suite offers comfort and ease, while the hobby-focused spaces throughout the property provide space for cycling, woodworking, pottery, fitness, creativity, and passion projects. Built with sustainability, security and longevity in mind, this BuiltGreen Platinum certified home is a rare offering in the heart of Oak Bay Village, steps from cafés, boutiques and everyday essentials. More detailsListed by Royal LePage Coast Capital – Chatterton- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
-
668 Sanderson Rd in Ladysmith: Du Ladysmith Half Duplex for sale (Duncan) : MLS®# 1036267
668 Sanderson Rd Ladysmith V9G 0A7
$724,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1036267
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 1,788 sq. ft.
Stunning new half duplex at 668 Sanderson Rd in Ladysmith, offering 3 bedrooms and 3 baths with beautifully curated interior design—and no strata fees. The main floor features a bright, open-concept layout flowing from dining to kitchen to living space. The modern kitchen includes a large island with quartz countertops, stainless appliances, ample cabinetry, and a spacious pantry. The living area opens to a covered patio and a larger-than-typical private yard in a quiet, established neighbourhood. Upstairs, the impressive primary suite boasts a 7’x10’5” walk-in closet and dual-sink ensuite with in-floor heat. Two additional bedrooms, a full bath, laundry, & a versatile flex room complete the level. With peekaboo mountain views, quality finishes, extra garage storage, an attached garage, and a ductless heat pump, this home offers modern comfort for every buyer. Price plus GST. All measurements are approx, please verify if deemed important More detailsListed by 460 Realty Inc. (NA)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
-
262 North View Pl in Salt Spring: GI Salt Spring Single Family Residence for sale (Gulf Islands) : MLS®# 1034604
262 North View Pl Salt Spring V8K 1A9
$885,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1034604
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 745 sq. ft.
Charming house on a hill, set on 5-acre parcel bordering North View Nature Park. Hiking trail across street leads to Sun Eagle above. Home & large fenced yard are utterly private. No neighbours visible. Cleared acreage in valley below is also yours. Love communing with nature? This one- bedroom property is for you. House features vaulted wood ceilings, 3 skylights & open plan kitchen/dining, and living room with wood stove (& heat pump). Large wrap-around deck with south & west exposures to enjoy BBQs, bird song, & sunny refuge through changing seasons. Large bathroom boasts cast iron, claw foot tub & picture window overlooking arbutus, firs, maple forest. The lower floor has washer, dryer & laundry sink, with roughed-in plumbing for a second bathroom. Excellent flexibility for additional use or expansion. Rural-zoned property offers mixture of tall tree forest and cleared areas for further development, including guest cottage. Come take a look. More detailsListed by Pemberton Holmes – Salt Spring- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
-
5362 Dewar Rd in Nanaimo: Na North Nanaimo Land for sale : MLS®# 1036499
5362 Dewar Rd Nanaimo V9T 5G1
$599,800Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1036499
North Nanaimo Premier Ocean-View Building Opportunity! Enjoy glorious panoramic ocean views from this exceptional building lot located at the top of the prestigious Ocean View Terrace development in the most desirable North Nanaimo. This elevated location offers some of the most impressive views in the city, stretching from Downtown Vancouver along the Mainland Coastal Mountains to the Sunshine Coast and beyond. Take in the ever-changing beauty of the Salish Sea and spectacular sunsets over the Winchelsea Islands, creating a stunning backdrop for your future home or development project. Ideally situated just minutes from shopping, schools, restaurants, parks, and a wide variety of outdoor recreational activities, offering both convenience and an outstanding West Coast lifestyle. A rare opportunity to build in one of North Nanaimo’s most sought-after ocean-view communities. Price plus GST. Measurements are approximate and should be verified if important. More detailsListed by REMAX Professionals (NA)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
-
303 2767 Muir Rd in Courtenay: CV Courtenay East Condo for sale (Comox Valley) : MLS®# 1036369
303 2767 Muir Rd Courtenay V9N 9A1
$318,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1036369
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 840 sq. ft.
Desirable East Courtenay location with mountain views and quick possession available! This bright upper-floor 2-bedroom, 1-bath condo at Muir Ridge offers open-concept living with a sunny south-facing balcony, cozy gas fireplace, and functional kitchen with eat-up bar. Freshly painted throughout, the unit also features in-suite laundry, newer blinds, and a newer hot water tank, making it move-in ready while still offering opportunity to add value over time. Ideally situated within walking distance to North Island College, the hospital, Aquatic Centre, shopping, parks, trails, transit, and Sandwick Park, with Crown Isle and CFB Comox just minutes away. Pet and rental friendly, this is an excellent opportunity for first-time buyers, investors, or anyone looking to enter the market in a convenient and sought-after neighbourhood. More detailsListed by eXp Realty (CT)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
-
115 300 Phelps Ave in Langford: La Thetis Heights Townhouse for sale : MLS®# 1036394
115 300 Phelps Ave Langford V9B 6L3
$719,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1036394
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 1,293 sq. ft.
Welcome to Parkland Townhomes in the heart of Langford. This well-maintained West Coast contemporary townhouse offers a bright, open-concept main floor with 9’ ceilings, engineered hardwood flooring, and a stylish kitchen featuring quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. The main level includes a dedicated office/bedroom with its private balcony and convenient 2 pc bath. Upstairs offers 2 bedrooms with vaulted ceilings, including a spacious primary with ensuite and walk-in shower, plus a second bedroom with walk-in closet and full 4 pc bath. Three skylights bring in an abundance of natural light throughout. Heated bathroom floors add everyday comfort. Bonus is the extra-long double garage with ample space for parking and storage. Ideally located close to schools, parks, shopping, and easy commuter routes. More detailsListed by HouseSigma Inc.- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
