How to Sell Your House During a Divorce: Navigating the Process in Michigan

Divorce is a challenging and emotional process, and when a family home is involved, the situation can become even more complicated. Understanding your rights and knowing the steps to take can help you make informed decisions during this difficult time. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to sell your house during a divorce in Michigan, including key legal considerations and tips for a smoother process. Let’s dive in.

Who Gets the House in a Divorce with Children?

When children are involved, deciding who gets the house in a divorce can be a critical issue. In Michigan, the court typically considers the best interests of the children when determining who stays in the family home. This might mean that the custodial parent remains in the house until the children reach a certain age, after which the property may be sold and the proceeds divided.

Michigan Divorce Laws Regarding Property

Understanding Michigan divorce laws regarding property is crucial when determining who gets what. In Michigan, marital property is divided equitably, not necessarily equally. This means the court will consider factors like the length of the marriage, the contributions of each spouse, and the needs of any children.

But what happens if the house was owned by one spouse before the marriage? Is a house owned before marriage considered marital property in Michigan? Generally, property owned before marriage is considered separate property, but if both spouses contribute to the mortgage or improvements during the marriage, it might be treated as marital property.

What Are My Rights if My Name Is Not on the Deed But Married in Michigan?

If your name is not on the deed but you are married, you might still have rights to the property. Michigan law recognizes that both spouses may have an interest in the marital home, even if only one name is on the deed. If the house was purchased or paid for during the marriage, it is typically considered marital property, and you may be entitled to a portion of the equity.

How to Sell Your House in a Divorce: A Step-by-Step Guide

Once you’ve determined who has rights to the property, the next step is selling the house. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to sell your house in a divorce:

  1. Agree on the Sale: Both parties need to agree that selling the house is the best course of action. If you can’t agree, the court may decide for you.

  2. Choose a Realtor Experienced in Divorce Sales: Selling a home during a divorce requires sensitivity and experience. Choose a realtor who understands the unique challenges of this situation.

  3. Determine the Value: Get a professional appraisal to determine the market value of the home. This will help ensure that both parties receive a fair share of the proceeds.

  4. Prepare the Home for Sale: Even in a divorce situation, it’s important to present the home in the best possible light. Work together to clean, declutter, and stage the home for showings.

  5. Negotiate the Sale: When offers come in, both parties should be involved in the negotiation process. Your realtor can help mediate if tensions arise.

  6. Divide the Proceeds: Once the home is sold, the proceeds are divided according to your divorce agreement. This might not be a 50/50 split, depending on the circumstances of your case.


How Long Do You Have to Be Married to Get Half of Everything in Michigan?

In Michigan, there is no set time period that guarantees you’ll get half of everything in a divorce. The court looks at various factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s contributions, and the needs of the parties involved. However, longer marriages typically result in a more equal division of assets, including the marital home.

Does My Spouse Have Any Right to My House If I Owned It Before Marriage in Michigan?

If you owned your house before marriage in Michigan, whether your spouse has any right to it depends on several factors. If your spouse contributed to the mortgage, maintenance, or improvements during the marriage, the court might consider the home to be marital property. However, if the house remained entirely separate, it might not be subject to division in the divorce.


Navigating how to sell your house in a divorce can be complex, but understanding your rights and the process can make it easier. Whether you’re trying to determine who gets the house in a divorce with children, or figuring out what happens to a house owned before marriage, it’s essential to have the right information and support.


Are you going through a divorce in Michigan, and need to sell your home? Contact me today to discuss your options and find the best solution for your situation.

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