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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3928 8th Ave in Port Alberni: PA Port Alberni Single Family Residence for sale : MLS®# 1032387
3928 8th Ave Port Alberni V9Y 4S2 
$350,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1032387
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 808 sq. ft.
Clean, solid rancher in a central location with everything dialed in and ready to go. Set on a large, fully fenced lot with a standout cherry tree out back and a covered pergola for year-round use. The home has been well cared for and it shows—move-in ready with all windows replaced and major foundation work already completed, lifted and properly re-supported for peace of mind. Inside, you’ll find bright, functional living with a sun-filled kitchen and classic coved ceilings that add just the right amount of personality. Attached garage offers great storage and space for projects or hobbies. A smart, reliable option with the big-ticket items handled. More detailsListed by Royal LePage Island Living (PK)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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4895 Laguna Way in Nanaimo: Na North Nanaimo Single Family Residence for sale : MLS®# 1030759
4895 Laguna Way Nanaimo V9T 5C2
$899,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1030759
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 2,477 sq. ft.
Welcome to 4895 Laguna Way, a fantastic opportunity in Nanaimo’s sought-after Hammond Bay area. Set on a generous 1/3 acre lot, this spacious home offers over 2,400 sq ft of well-designed living space, featuring 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, including a 1-bedroom in-law suite—perfect for extended family or added rental income. The functional floor plan is ideal for families and investors alike, with bright living areas that showcase expansive ocean and coastal mountain views. The home is wired for a built-in sound system throughout, adding modern comfort and convenience. Enjoy the attached garage and a prime location just minutes from transit, major shopping centres, and all key amenities. Outdoor enthusiasts will love being close to Pipers Lagoon and Neck Point. A versatile home in a prime location—don’t miss it! 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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107 151 Royal Pacific Way in Nanaimo: Na North Nanaimo Townhouse for sale : MLS®# 1032471
107 151 Royal Pacific Way Nanaimo V9T 0B9
$874,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1032471
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 4
- Floor Area:
- 2,380 sq. ft.
May qualify for $15,000+ Property Transfer Tax exemption and $44,500 first time buyer GST exemption! Welcome to Pacific Ridge! 10 Windley-built homes offering 2380 sq. ft. of luxury living space with exceptional features like gas furnaces, on-demand hot water, durable Hardi siding, quartz countertops, and breathtaking ocean views. All units offer unobstructed primary bedroom views and the main floor views progressively improve as the unit numbers increase. Units 101-105 offer nice views from the main floor, while units 106-110 progressively move from “very nice” to “spectacular”. Each unit includes a spacious lower-level rec room, a main-level open floor plan with access to the patio and flat yard, plus access to the ocean view deck. The upper level has three bedrooms, including a primary bedroom with ensuite and an ocean view walk in closet. Purchase price is plus GST. Don’t miss out on this opportunity for upscale living at Pacific Ridge! More detailsListed by REMAX Professionals (NA)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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261 Applegreen Ave in Nanaimo: Na South Nanaimo Single Family Residence for sale : MLS®# 1032559
261 Applegreen Ave Nanaimo V9R 0A6
$724,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1032559
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 1,464 sq. ft.
Welcome to this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home in a quiet and sought after South Nanaimo neighbourhood. Offering nearly 1,500 sq ft of well-designed living space, this home perfectly blends comfort, style, and convenience. Inside, you’ll find a bright and inviting layout featuring new flooring, a cozy gas fireplace, crown moulding, and modern updates throughout. The kitchen is equipped with newer appliances, making it both functional and stylish for everyday living and entertaining. Stay comfortable year-round with a newer heat pump system with four head units, providing efficient heating and cooling throughout. Step outside and enjoy the thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces, including a covered patio, firepit, and spacious deck with large pergola, ideal for relaxing or hosting family and friends. Located in a great neighbourhood known for its peaceful atmosphere, this home is just minutes from all amenities, including shopping, recreation, and scenic walking trails. More detailsListed by REMAX Professionals (NA)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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1688 Lailah’s Loop in Qualicum Beach: PQ Little Qualicum River Village Single Family Residence for sale (Parksville/Qualicum) : MLS®# 1032066
1688 Lailah’s Loop Qualicum Beach V9K 2S3
$549,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1032066
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 1,722 sq. ft.
Immaculate home located in Little Qualicum River Village! This 3 bed, 2.5 bath residence offers over 1,700 sq ft of bright, open concept living, featuring hardwood floors & a cozy fireplace. The kitchen is well appointed with solid wood cabinetry, granite countertops, & SS appliances. Family room with direct access to a spacious covered deck overlooking a private, fully fenced, landscaped yard perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Main floor primary suite offers convenience and comfort, with a spa inspired ensuite featuring a clawfoot tub & separate shower. Walk out lower level provides excellent flexibility, with a large rec room & a second fireplace, two additional beds, and a full bath ideal for guests or potential suite development. Laundry room, ample storage, & a second covered patio with mountain views complete the space. Move in ready & surrounded by nature, walking trails & Little Qualicum River Falls just a short drive away. Only 20 minutes to downtown Qualicum Beach. More detailsListed by Royal LePage Island Living (QU)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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544 W Riel Pl in Saanich: SW Glanford Single Family Residence for sale (Saanich West) : MLS®# 1030600
544 W Riel Pl Saanich V8Z 2J1
$1,175,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1030600
- Bedrooms:
- 5
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 2,109 sq. ft.
Open house Sat & Sun 2-4pm. Welcome to 544 Riel Pl., a beautifully maintained 5-bedroom 2-bathroom home tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in a desirable Saanich neighborhood. This inviting property offers a bright, functional layout with generous living spaces, perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The updated custom kitchen flows nicely into the dining and living areas, creating a warm, connected atmosphere. A sundeck off the kitchen/dining area is great for entertaining or enjoying the sun. Downstairs you will find 2 good sized bedrooms, a rec room or exercise area, a sewing or office area, 3 piece bathroom, laundry and garage. Large windows bring in plenty of natural light, while the private yard provides a peaceful outdoor retreat with irrigated flower beds and boxes. Well-cared-for and move-in ready, this home is close to parks, trails, schools, shopping, and all amenities. A fantastic opportunity to enjoy comfort, convenience, and community in the heart of Saanich. More detailsListed by DFH Real Estate Ltd.- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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105 3915 St. George’s Lane in Saanich: SE Cadboro Bay Condo for sale (Saanich East) : MLS®# 1032459
105 3915 St. George’s Lane Saanich V8N 4E3
$395,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1032459
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 835 sq. ft.
OH June 18 & 19, 1:00pm-3:00pm! Welcome to the Orchard. This senior’s residence is composed of 20 suites and a welcoming 65+ community for those that lead independent/active lifestyles. 105 is a ground level unit with southeast exposure for pleasant morning sun, and a covered patio. Configured as a 1 bed + den, the unit flows seamlessly between kitchen, dining, and living spaces, and offers a generous primary bedroom with 3pc ensuite and walkthrough closet. There is a striking amount of common space throughout the complex: 2 lounges, full kitchen, dining area, guest suite, and a workshop/hobby area. The convenience of Cadboro Bay Village is just steps away: Groceries, coffee shops, restaurants, a pharmacy, boutiques, and more. You also have one of Victoria’s best beaches at your doorstep from this idyllic location. Occupancy is granted under a life-lease agreement between residents and the SGHS, and offers a stress-free and unique real estate interest at an approachable price point. More detailsListed by Engel & Volkers Vancouver Island- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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212 950 Whirlaway Cres in Langford: La Florence Lake Townhouse for sale : MLS®# 1031816
212 950 Whirlaway Cres Langford V9B 0Y3
$649,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1031816
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 1,328 sq. ft.
Welcome to Triple Crown Residence One—an exceptional opportunity to own a spacious 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom open concept Condo. This bright residence features an open-concept layout enhanced by 9-foot ceilings and expansive windows that fill the space with natural light. The contemporary kitchen is both elegant and functional, offering quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a generous island that seamlessly connects to the living and dining areas—ideal for everyday living and entertaining. Enjoy the comfort of in-suite laundry and air conditioning, along with the rare advantage of two secure underground parking stalls and a dedicated storage locker. Perfectly situated within walking distance to major retailers including Costco, Best Buy, and Staples, as well as restaurants, parks, and schools—with new middle and high schools planned nearby. Easy highway access ensures a convenient commute in any direction. A rare chance to own in one of Langford’s top growing communities. More detailsListed by Royal LePage Coast Capital – Chatterton- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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C8 2650 Turnbull Rd in Qualicum Beach: PQ Qualicum North Recreational for sale (Parksville/Qualicum) : MLS®# 1032492
C8 2650 Turnbull Rd Qualicum Beach V9K 2R2
$149,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1032492
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 256 sq. ft.
Private Retreat at Spider Lake Springs Resort – Your Ideal Vacation Getaway! Escape to your very own piece of paradise at the end of a quiet private road in beautiful Spider Lake Springs Resort. This secluded lot offers the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation, featuring a large gazebo ideal for family gatherings, a 2005 Jazz fifth wheel RV with newly added covered roof, and a spacious covered deck overlooking a serene private pond. Whether you’re looking to retire in peace or build unforgettable family memories, this lot has it all. As an owner, you’ll enjoy access to exclusive resort amenities, including:Swimming areas and water slide, Tennis courts and soccer field, Baseball diamond and fishing ponds, Multiple playgrounds for the kids. Spider Lake Springs is open year-round, with full occupancy permitted from April 15th to October 15th. The annual fee of just $1,525 covers water, sewer, and 24-hour security, making this an affordable option for your vacation lifestyle. 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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54 7586 Tetayut Rd in Central Saanich: CS Hawthorne Manufactured Home for sale : MLS®# 1032578
54 7586 Tetayut Rd Central Saanich V8M 0B4
$665,999Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1032578
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,329 sq. ft.
Discover Hummingbird Green Village, an exclusive haven for those who value beauty, serenity, and discretion.This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home blends modern elegance with practical design.The open-concept layout features an accent wall suited for your finest pieces. Lush greenery complements the impeccably maintained lawn, cared for with the owner’s golf-honed patience and precision. Wider doorways, a flush entrance, and an accessible ensuite shower ensure ease of mobility, rare in this complex. The kitchen offers sleek countertops, premium appliances, and generous storage. Engineered hardwood flooring, vaulted ceilings, architrave moulding, and staircase-style wiring elevate the home’s efficiency and style. The covered patio leads to a secluded backyard, naturally screened for privacy and free from prying eyes. Minutes from BC Ferries, the airport, the beach by the Sidney Pier, and a direct highway to downtown Victoria, travel is effortless. Claim your place at Hummingbird Green Village. More detailsListed by eXp Realty- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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102 1110 Samar Cres in Langford: La Westhills Condo for sale : MLS®# 1032575
102 1110 Samar Cres Langford V9B 7B2
$799,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1032575
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,098 sq. ft.
Welcome to Unit 102 at 1110 Samar Cres—a quiet, corner residence offering exceptional space and privacy. This bright home features extra-large windows, soaring 15-ft concrete ceilings, and motorized blinds throughout. The open layout includes a large den, walk-in side-by-side laundry, dedicated storage, and an efficient ERV system for year-round comfort. Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor living with over 600 sq ft of private patio space, perfect for entertaining or relaxing with mountain views. Ideally located near the entrance with only one common wall, this unit offers a rare sense of seclusion. Includes two EV rough-in parking stalls, with the extra stall valued at $20,000. A unique opportunity in a well-designed Langford building. More detailsListed by LPT Realty- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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2015 Seawind Way in Sidney: Si Sidney North-East Single Family Residence for sale : MLS®# 1032583
2015 Seawind Way Sidney V8L 0C4
$1,499,999Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1032583
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 4
- Floor Area:
- 2,631 sq. ft.
Back on Market due to financing collapse. LIKE NEW, PRIMARY ON THE MAIN LEVEL, 2,631 SF, 4 bed / 4 bth home on an easy care lot. Built in 2015, 10 ft ceilings, open-concept layout, engineered hardwood, and a cozy gas FP. Main level features a sleek kitchen with quartz Caesarstone counters, large island, soft-close cabinetry, pantry, and quality Whirlpool/Bosch appliances. Exceptionally private 1-bed suite offers true separation from the main home with soundproofing, own hydro meter, hot water tank, separate Canada Post address. Huge covered patio is perfect for year round outdoor living. Added bonus: Heat pump, hot water on demand, heated crawl & garage, Illusion blinds, fresh paint, irrigation, and 3 storage sheds. Prime, walkable location near schools, parks, transit, and shopping—15 min to airport/ferries, 30 min to DT Victoria—set in a friendly, community-oriented neighbourhood. More detailsListed by RE/MAX Camosun- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
