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.
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1391 Victoria Ave in Oak Bay: OB South Oak Bay Single Family Residence for sale : MLS®# 1046689
1391 Victoria Ave Oak Bay V8S 4P4 
$2,100,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1046689
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 2,871 sq. ft.
Character without compromise in the heart of Oak Bay. Designed by renowned Victoria architect C. Elwood Watkins, this home blends classic character with modern updates and the flexibility of no heritage designation. Original fir floors, built-in dining-room buffet and picture rail complement a custom Thomas and Birch kitchen with dovetail cabinetry, FloForm quartz counters and Fisher & Paykel appliances. The adaptable 4-bedroom floor plan also offers a den/office, ideal for working from home, guests and family living, along with exceptional custom closets and storage. Upgrades include 200-amp service, a Trane heat pump with gas backup furnace and Valor gas fireplace. A large south-facing deck with gas BBQ connection overlooks the fully fenced garden with distinct outdoor living zones. Thoughtfully updated while preserving its original character, all in a beautiful, highly walkable Oak Bay location close to the Village, parks, schools, shops, amenities and waterfront. More detailsListed by The Agency- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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43 Gerald Pl in Parksville: PQ Parksville Single Family Residence for sale (Parksville/Qualicum) : MLS®# 1045031
43 Gerald Pl Parksville V9P 1G6
$650,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1045031
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,282 sq. ft.
Tucked into a quiet cul-de-sac in beautiful Parksville, a rare opportunity awaits. This 3 bed/2 bath rancher is sharply priced for first time buyers, families or seniors that want to save a little cash. All the original windows have been converted to energy efficient vinyl frames and both bathrooms have been tastefully updated. The large Primary Bedroom features a walk in closet and 3pc Ensuite with lovely walk-in shower and the 5pc Main Bathroom adds an upgraded tub and dual vanities. Kitchen counters have been updated and all appliances are stainless steel. Outside offers a relaxing covered deck looking out to a large, fully fenced back yard with privacy, gardens and a detached shop. Part of the original carport has been converted into secured storage space while still maintaining covered parking for a vehicle. Lots of potential with this property, have your realtor book a showing today. More detailsListed by RE/MAX First Realty (PK)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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6025 Tweedsmuir Cres in Nanaimo: Na North Nanaimo Single Family Residence for sale : MLS®# 1046655
6025 Tweedsmuir Cres Nanaimo V9T 5Y7
$899,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1046655
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 2,054 sq. ft.
Exceptional family home in the popular Parkwood Subdivision of North Nanaimo! This classic 2-storey home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and a fully fenced backyard. The main level features hardwood and luxury vinyl plank flooring, a spacious living room with large bay windows, dining room and an open kitchen with granite countertops and new stainless steel appliances. The kitchen overlooks the backyard and flows into a sunken family room with French doors opening to a patio and covered pergola for year-round enjoyment, plus natural gas connections for a BBQ and fire pit. A den, laundry room and powder room complete the main floor. Upstairs are 3 spacious bedrooms, including the bright primary suite with an ensuite featuring a soaker tub and separate shower. Additional features include ductless heat pumps for heating and air conditioning, 3 custom sheds, RV parking, a 2025 roof and 2023 hot water tank. All measurements are approximate. More detailsListed by REMAX Professionals (NA)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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1704 Coronation Ave in Victoria: Vi Jubilee Half Duplex for sale : MLS®# 1046708
1704 Coronation Ave Victoria V8R 1X2
$1,395,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1046708
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 1,662 sq. ft.
Energy-efficient custom duplex blends modern luxury with character, featuring reclaimed fir from the 1918 home it replaced. Offering 2 bedrooms plus an office/optional 3rd bedroom and 2.5 baths, ground floor entry with polished concrete floors. The open concept great room has 9′ ceilings and natural light from SW facing windows. The kitchen features SS appliances, quartz countertops and island. The living room has an electric fireplace, smart tv wiring and in ceiling speakers. Step out onto the patio and enjoy the landscaped private yard. Zoned Radiant in-floor heating extends throughout, including the garage, complemented by upstairs A/C mini-splits. The upper level features two spacious bedroom suites, laundry, office, and a bonus loft. The primary suite offers a balcony, walk-through closet, an ensuite with double sinks, while the second suite includes vaulted ceilings, a 6′ soaker tub and W.I.C.. Built with SIPs panels for superior insulation and airtightness plus HRV ventilation. More detailsListed by Newport Realty Ltd.- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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3303 Seventh St in Cumberland: CV Cumberland Single Family Residence for sale (Comox Valley) : MLS®# 1046727
3303 Seventh St Cumberland V0R 1S0
$859,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1046727
- Bedrooms:
- 6
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 2,151 sq. ft.
Excellent opportunity to own a two suite property in the sought after community of Cumberland. Ideal for investors, multi generational families, or owner occupiers, both suites are currently vacant and ready for your plans. The upper suite features 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, laminate and tile flooring, vinyl windows, and an energy-efficient mini-split heat pump, plus two parking spaces and a private yard. The lower suite offers 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, durable vinyl flooring, one parking space, and its own yard area. With 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, this property offers excellent income potential and flexibility. Live in one suite while renting the other, accommodate extended family, or generate rental income from both units. A great opportunity to own in one of the Comox Valley’s most desirable communities. Call me to view! More detailsListed by RE/MAX Anchor Realty (QU)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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4814 Fairbrook Cres in Nanaimo: Na Uplands Half Duplex for sale : MLS®# 1045105
4814 Fairbrook Cres Nanaimo V9T 5P3
$599,897Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1045105
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,513 sq. ft.
Welcome to 4814 Fairbrook Crescent, a spacious 1,500+ sq ft half duplex located in Sunshine Ridge, one of Nanaimo’s most desirable neighbourhoods. This bright and inviting home offers 3 bedrooms + a den, 2 bathrooms, an attached garage, updated flooring throughout, and an abundance of natural light. Step outside to a beautifully redesigned backyard featuring retaining walls, artificial grass, and multiple seating areas, creating the perfect low-maintenance space for families, entertaining, or simply relaxing outdoors. Enjoy the convenience of nearby parks and trails while being just minutes from major shopping centres, restaurants, schools, and other key amenities. Offering a fantastic combination of space, location, and an outdoor area designed to be enjoyed, this is an excellent opportunity to call Sunshine Ridge home. Measurements are approximate and should be verified if important. More detailsListed by 460 Realty Inc. (NA)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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2820 Cosgrove Cres in Nanaimo: Na Departure Bay Single Family Residence for sale : MLS®# 1046830
2820 Cosgrove Cres Nanaimo V9S 3P6
$1,039,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1046830
- Bedrooms:
- 5
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 2,893 sq. ft.
Welcome to 2820 Cosgrove Cres in the heart of Departure bay with fantastic view of the ocean, Islands and mainland Mountains, this home has been well cared for by the current owner for 50 years, a long list of updated over the years, great floor plan with beautiful vaulted ceilings, The living room, dining room & Kitchen all have vaulted wood ceilings and beams truly spectacular, there is a very large deck with access from Dining room & Kitchen partly covered for your entertaining and enjoying the views. Kitchen is large with island and lots of cupboard & Counter space, 3 bedrooms on the main floor including primary on the view side plus 3-piece ensuite, the main bathroom is 4-piece, downstairs is huge with family room with access to a large patio out back there is a rec Room, mudroom 2 more bedrooms or office/Den. The yard is beautifully landscaped with fully fenced including Garden area all sitting on a large 9600 sq/ft lot close to all amenities including Departure bay beach. More detailsListed by REMAX Professionals (NA)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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100 W Viaduct Ave in Saanich: SW Prospect Lake Single Family Residence for sale (Saanich West) : MLS®# 1046692
100 W Viaduct Ave Saanich V9E 1J3
$1,399,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1046692
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 2,762 sq. ft.
Surrounded by 2.7 acres of wooded beauty, this well maintained post & beam home offers a peaceful West Coast retreat just 15 min from Downtown. The property is framed by coastal Douglas Firs & features established gardens w/ native edible & medicinal plants plus abundant birds & wildlife to enjoy from the large deck & picture windows. Inside, vaulted ceilings, chestnut hardwood floors, panoramic windows & natural materials create a warm inviting feel. The layout offers 4 beds & a family room on the main, plus a 5th bed & office downstairs. Highlights include an updated kitchen, wood stove, radiant in-floor heating, old-growth red cedar siding & 2017 50-year metal roof. A separate workshop adds versatility. Prospect Lake, Francis King & Thetis are nearby, offering swimming & great trails. The location offers an easy commute to Downtown, VGH, Royal Roads, Observatory & everyday amenities. This serene & private sanctuary can be yours offering the ultimate escape from the everyday hustle! More detailsListed by Macdonald Realty Victoria- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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#401 964 Heywood Ave in Victoria: Vi Downtown Condo for sale : MLS®# 1046804
#401 964 Heywood Ave Victoria V8V 2Y5
$229,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1046804
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 664 sq. ft.
OH Sat 1-3. Outstanding value in this bright, top-floor one-bedroom suite, quietly positioned on the west side of the building. Large windows fill the home with natural light, while the spacious west-facing balcony overlooks Beacon Hill Park and offers an ideal setting for afternoon sun and warm summer evenings. The well-designed interior features a generous living room, separate dining area and comfortable bedroom. Enjoy an exceptional location with Beacon Hill Park across the street, Cook Street Village just one block away, and downtown Victoria and the Dallas Road waterfront within an easy stroll. Villa Royale offers a welcoming community along with a penthouse clubhouse, sauna, hot tub, hobby room and bicycle storage. The monthly fee includes property taxes, heat, hot water, building maintenance and an on-site property manager. Parking and storage lockers are wait-listed, with ample street parking available nearby. Financing options are available. Leasehold in place until 2073. More detailsListed by Royal LePage Coast Capital – Oak Bay- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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#310 9650 First St in Sidney: Si Sidney South-East Condo for sale : MLS®# 1046601
#310 9650 First St Sidney V8L 3C9
$930,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1046601
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,258 sq. ft.
OPEN HOUSE SAT, AUG 15TH 12:30 TO 2:00 PM – GARAGE, WATER-VIEWS & AN UNBEATABLE LOCATION IN SIDNEY. This 2-bed, 2-bth, 1,258 SF is located in one of Sidney’s most sought-after and well-regarded 55+ buildings — a favourite among buyers — this home is just steps from Sidney’s waterfront, walking trails, sea wall, shops, restaurants, and local businesses. Beautifully updated with new flooring throughout, fresh paint, an updated kitchen with newer appliances, and a new warm & inviting gas fireplace. The spacious layout includes a large dining area & separate breakfast nook, providing plenty of room for both everyday living & entertaining. The spacious primary bedroom features a full ensuite, while the second bedroom includes a convenient Murphy bed, making it ideal for guests, a home office, or flexible living space. In-suite laundry and a large storage room. Step outside to the lovely, spacious balcony — the perfect spot to sit back, enjoy the views, and watch the world go by. More detailsListed by RE/MAX Camosun- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
-
112 Buller St in Ladysmith: Du Ladysmith Single Family Residence for sale (Duncan) : MLS®# 1046790
112 Buller St Ladysmith V9G 1A1
$499,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1046790
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 1,296 sq. ft.
Located in downtown Ladysmith, this 7,200 sq. ft. C-2 Downtown Core zoned property offers a unique opportunity to live, work, or invest. Flexible zoning supports residential, commercial, mixed-use, and potential storefront uses. The home features 4 bedrooms, a den, and separate office, providing plenty of space for family, guests, hobbies, or working from home. Enjoy a spacious living room, large dining area, kitchen, laundry, and generous 197 sq. ft. covered porch. A private backyard and convenient alley access add to the appeal. Just steps from Ladysmith’s award-winning First Avenue, you’re close to local shops, restaurants, artisan boutiques, galleries, waterfront amenities, Country Grocer, and the Ladysmith Health Care Centre. An excellent opportunity to own in Ladysmith’s downtown core for under $500,000. With flexible zoning and a versatile layout, this property offers excellent potential for a home, live/work space, or investment. Book your private showing today! More detailsListed by Royal LePage Nanaimo Realty (NanIsHwyN)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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2079 Camosun Cres in Port McNeill: NI Port McNeill Single Family Residence for sale (North Island) : MLS®# 1046723
2079 Camosun Cres Port McNeill V0N 2R0
$325,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1046723
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,696 sq. ft.
Welcome to this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in Port McNeill offering great potential and beautiful peek-a-boo ocean and mountain views. The main level features a spacious living area, 3 bedrooms and a full bathroom, with the primary bedroom providing direct access to the large back deck, perfect for enjoying the surrounding views and outdoor space. The kitchen features plenty of storage and flows into the adjacent dining room, which provides access to the balcony. The lower level includes an additional bedroom, full bathroom, storage, and plenty of flexibility for family or guests. Outside, enjoy a large back deck, single attached garage, and workshop tucked beneath the deck, providing an abundance of storage. A great opportunity for someone looking to put in some sweat equity, add their own personal touches, and make this home their own. More detailsListed by 460 Realty Inc. (PH)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
