DIVORCE AND REAL ESTATE

A Message from Jana Bruce

In my practice, I prioritize creating a comforting and professional atmosphere while recognizing the emotional and financial hurdles faced by homeowners undergoing divorce. As a Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert and impartial mediator, I bring a special sensitivity to the complexities of this situation. My aim is to empower divorcing couples by guiding them through their real estate decisions with empathy and steadfast support, ensuring a smooth and fair process for the sale of their property.

What is a Certified Divorce Real Estate Agent?

A Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE™) is a REALTOR who has undergone a rigorous certification program led by attorneys, mediators, certified mortgage professionals, real estate professionals, and judicial officers. Acting as a vital link between real estate and family law, a CDRE is skilled at preventing and resolving real estate disputes that may arise within family law cases. Attorneys and clients alike rely on a CDRE to assist in navigating their cases.

The Importance of Neutrality

In a typical real estate transaction involving a family, the sellers often share common goals. However, when divorce becomes a factor, the sellers may have conflicting objectives and find themselves at odds. Effective communication becomes notably challenging. Given the multifaceted perspectives involved, maintaining neutrality becomes paramount. A CDRE trained in divorce proceedings actively listens to both parties, remains impartial, identifies points of leverage, and devises a strategy to facilitate the sale of the house. This intricate role demands a skill set that conventional real estate agents, lawyers, therapists, family members, and friends typically lack the expertise to navigate.

CDRE vs. Traditional Realtor

In contrast to a conventional realtor lacking divorce process training and proficiency in dispute resolution and negotiation, a CDRE ensures swift and lucrative sale of the property while minimizing collateral damage, all the while providing clear communication throughout the transaction and complying with legal processes as needed. Specifically, a CDRE brings the following competencies and training to the forefront when handling divorce-related matters:

• Strong negotiation skills
• In-depth knowledge of real estate procedures, intricacies, and contracts
• Accreditation as a Court-Appointed Expert
• Completion of a comprehensive multi-month divorce real estate training program
• Familiarity with divorce legal procedures
• Ability to provide testimony
• Membership in the DREI™ network of experts with ongoing education in divorce real estate matters
• Proficiency in dispute resolution related to divorce real estate
• Methodical approach to attorney communication
• Coordination among attorneys, courts, and enforcement entities for order execution
• Preparedness to testify, compile reports, and maintain systematic documentation for court submission with credible testimony