MN Divorce Real Estate: Essential Questions When Interviewing a Realtor®

When divorcing homeowners need to sell the marital home, they often consider hiring a friend, family member, or even the Realtor® who originally helped them buy the property. However, in the context of divorce, where the home is likely both the largest asset and the largest debt—and often laden with emotional ties—the choice of a listing agent is critical. Selecting the right Realtor® should never be an afterthought, given the significant role they will play in ensuring a fair and efficient process for both parties.

If there’s difficulty agreeing on a listing agent, or if there’s hesitation about working with anyone other than a Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE®), a thorough interview process is essential.

Below is a list of 12 critical questions that will help assess whether a Realtor® has the skills and experience needed for this unique situation:

1.  How do you handle disputes when both parties cannot agree?

2.  What communication approach will you use to keep both parties informed?

3.  How do you address differing opinions on matters such as lockbox access?

4.  What’s your protocol for resolving disagreements on repairs and related expenses?

5.  How do you manage requests from the out-spouse for property access?

6.  What training or experience do you have with high-conflict family law cases?

7.  How do you coordinate access and communication when restraining orders are involved?

8.  Do you represent buyers for properties you list in divorce situations?

9.  Do you invest in properties listed due to divorce?

10.  If only one spouse holds the title, how do you involve the non-titled spouse in the sale process?

11.  How do you ensure that the distribution of proceeds aligns with court orders?

12. Do you disclose in listings, to buyers, or to other agents that the property is a divorce listing?

Divorce real estate presents complexities that require specialized skills—skills that most Realtors® without CDRE® training may not possess.

Certified Divorce Real Estate Experts are trained to manage the unique challenges of divorce real estate transactions with the highest level of professionalism. They bring the necessary knowledge and protocols to handle every issue that may arise, ensuring that both parties are fairly represented.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions about finding the right Realtor for your situation or if you’d like additional guidance on navigating real estate in a divorce.

When selling a home during a divorce in the Twin Cities, partnering with Shannon Lindstrom, a Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE®) with RE/MAX Results, offers distinct advantages compared to working with a traditional real estate agent. A CDRE® brings specialized training, neutrality, and an in-depth understanding of both real estate and divorce, making them a vital asset in navigating the complex intersection of family law and property transactions.

If you’re facing real estate decisions in the midst of a divorce, reach out to discuss your options. I’m here to provide professional guidance to help you through this challenging time.

Shannon Lindstrom, Realtor®, CDRE®, CREDS, CRS, GREEN, MILRES, MRP, VCA
RE/MAX Results
7373 Kirkwood Court No, Ste. 300
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Direct: 612-616-9714
Lindstrom_S@msn.com
Shannon@ShannonLindstromRealtor.com
www.ShannonLindstromRealtor.com
www.ShannonLindstrom.info
https://www.ilumniinstitute.com/cdre/shannon-lindstrom
www.MNDivorceRealEstateExpert.com
www.MinnesotaMilitaryVeteranRealEstateAgent.com