Selling a Home After a Separation in Virginia: What You Need to Know

When a relationship ends, the home you once shared can quickly shift from a safe haven to a source of stress. Whether your split is amicable or complicated, the decision to sell a home is rarely just about bricks and mortar—it’s about navigating legal realities, financial logistics, and emotional readiness.

As a local Realtor in Virginia, I’ve helped couples through this exact transition. My job is to be the steady hand guiding you both toward a solution that works—practically, financially, and respectfully. Here’s what you need to know if you're preparing to sell a home during a separation or divorce in the Commonwealth.

💍 Who owns the home under Virginia law?

Virginia is a joint tenancy state, meaning most married couples hold property together unless otherwise specified. That means even if only one of you is listed on the mortgage, you may still both have ownership rights to the home—especially if it was purchased during the marriage.

If you're unsure how the title is held, we can pull a copy of your deed to confirm whether you're listed as joint tenants with right of survivorship or tenants in common. These distinctions affect how the sale proceeds are handled.

💡 Do we have to sell the house?

Not necessarily. One spouse may choose to keep the home and refinance it into their name. However, in my experience here in Newport News, Hampton, and the Peninsula, selling is often the cleanest route—especially if one person can’t afford the home alone or if both want a fresh start.

A neutral sale also ensures that both parties get their fair share of the home’s equity, which can be critical when you're dividing other assets or debts.

🧮 How is the value of our home determined?

I begin with a local Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) that compares your home to recent sales in your neighborhood. Depending on your situation, we can also arrange a certified appraisal. In high-tension separations, a formal appraisal can serve as a neutral third-party opinion and help both sides feel more confident in pricing.

💸 How are profits split after the sale?

If you’re still legally married and jointly own the home, net proceeds are generally split 50/50—unless your separation agreement or court order says otherwise. In Virginia, a judge may consider who contributed to the home financially or physically, but in most cases, it's considered marital property and divided equitably.

Before closing, we’ll work with your attorneys (if applicable) to ensure the settlement statement reflects the agreed-upon division.

⏳ How long will the process take?

In today’s Hampton Roads market, most homes that are priced correctly go under contract within 30 days and close within 30–45 days. If the property is vacant or already vacated by one party, it often moves faster.

We’ll coordinate everything from showing schedules to signatures so both sides stay informed but not overwhelmed.

🤝 Can you work with both of us fairly?

Yes. I specialize in these types of transitional sales and serve as a neutral third party focused on one thing: selling the home for the best possible price, with as little stress as possible.

Whether you prefer joint communication or separate updates, I tailor my process to your comfort level. My priority is always a smooth, professional transaction that lets you both move forward with peace of mind.

✨ Final Thoughts:

Selling a home during a divorce or separation is never easy—but it doesn’t have to be chaotic. With a clear plan, local market insight, and the right team, you can move forward with confidence.

If you're in Newport News, Hampton, or anywhere in the 757 and considering selling your home as part of a separation, I offer confidential consultations to help you understand your options. There’s no pressure—just honest advice and clear next steps.

Erika Granderson | @theeotakurealtor
@hogangroup Realtor® | 757 VA
📲 434-258-3103
📧 erika@hogangrp.com