Selling a Home During Divorce in Massachusetts

by Molly Armando

Divorce and selling a home—they're arguably two of life’s most stressful experiences—and in Massachusetts, they often happen at the same time. As a local real estate agent, I’ve helped many couples navigate this emotional and financial transition. Here are a few key things to keep in mind if you’re selling a home during a divorce in the Bay State:

What Happens to the House?

There are usually three options:

One spouse buys out the other’s share
One spouse stays in the home temporarily (often until the youngest child turns 18), then it’s sold
The home is sold immediately, and the proceeds are split

The best choice depends on your finances, your family, and how things are unfolding emotionally.

Don’t Let Emotions Drive the Decision

Sometimes one spouse insists on keeping the house just to "win"—but later realizes it’s too expensive to maintain alone. Think carefully about whether the home is financially sustainable, and emotionally right for your next chapter.

Know the Tax Benefits

Massachusetts sellers can take advantage of up to $500,000 in capital gains tax exclusion if the home is sold while still married and filing jointly. If you're selling after the divorce, that number drops to $250,000. Timing can make a big difference.

Choose the Right Agent

If the divorce is amicable, picking an agent together can make the process much smoother. Look for someone who:

Understands the local market
Communicates clearly with both parties
Markets your home with strong photography, video, and online exposure

A neutral, experienced agent can help keep things on track and reduce stress for everyone.

Moving Forward

Selling a home during divorce isn’t easy—but you don't have to do it alone. With the right guidance and communication, it can be the first step toward a new beginning.If you need help navigating this, I’m here to guide you through it—one step at a time.

Need personalized advice or professional guidance? Reach out to the Tides Group who can help you one step at a time.

✨ 𝗠𝗢𝗟𝗟𝗬 𝗔𝗥𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗗𝗢

📍 Real Estate Broker in Massachusetts & Rhode Island
📲 Call/Text Direct - 508.863.1015
📩 Email: molly@tidesre.com
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