Choose an agent who works for the sale, not a side.

What a good divorce-sale agent does

A good agent treats both owners the same. They send the same information to both of you, at the same time, in writing. They don't take sides, share private talks, or comment on your divorce.

They price the home using closed sales, not feelings. They explain why. If one spouse wants a high price and the other wants a fast sale, they show you the facts and let you and your attorneys decide.

They know a divorce sale has extra steps. They ask whether both owners must sign, whether a court order affects the sale, and who can accept an offer. They work with your attorneys, not around them.

There are good agents with experience managing divorce sales. There are many moving parts, and even when everyone is being friendly, there is an added level of stress. You deserve someone who understands that, communicates clearly, and keeps the sale moving. Ask your professional team for recommendations, and interview agents before choosing one.

Look for experience, not just a friendly face.

Most people know a real estate agent. That doesn't make them the right one. A friend of one spouse may not seem neutral to the other.

Some agents have extra training in divorce sales. Training is a good sign, but not required. Experience with tense, two-sided sales matters more.

Questions to ask before you hire

• How many sales have you handled where the owners were divorcing or separated?
• How will you communicate with both of us, and with our attorneys?
• Do you have a personal or business relationship with either of us?
• What closed sales support your suggested price?
• Which repairs would you recommend, and which would you skip?
• What happens if we disagree on an offer or a price change?
• How will showings, keys, and access work if one of us still lives there?

Watch for these red flags

• The agent is a close friend or relative of one spouse.
• They quote a high price to win the listing, without closed sales to back it up.
• They talk with one spouse and leave the other out.
• They give legal or tax advice. That belongs to your attorney and tax professional.

Two moves, maybe two agents.

The agent who sells the house works for the sale. Each spouse may also need an agent to find their next home. It's fine to use different agents for that. Talk to a mortgage professional before you start looking so you know your real buying power.