Check the legal position first
New York matrimonial proceedings can involve automatic orders restricting transfers of property. Before accepting an offer, ask your attorney how the orders and any agreements apply to your house. Confirm what consent or court involvement is needed for the contemplated transaction. This is a reason to coordinate early, not to assume a sale is impossible. Keep the buyer’s timeline separate from legal approvals until your counsel has confirmed the path.
Agree on a communication process
Decide who will coordinate access, where written proposals should be sent and how both sides’ advisers will receive the same information. Separate property facts from disagreements about the relationship. A shared list of repairs, contents and preferred dates can make evaluation easier. If direct communication is difficult, ask your attorneys to establish a suitable process rather than expecting the buyer to mediate.
Compare complete written terms
Review price alongside condition requirements, inspection provisions, costs, timing and possession. Ask your own advisers to assess the proposal and the expected proceeds. Do not assume an offer establishes how the money will be divided; that is a separate matter for the parties and their legal process. Keeping the sale terms clear helps everyone evaluate the same transaction.
Coordinate two next steps
A closing date may need to account for more than one move and the handling of personal belongings. Put possession and any agreed arrangements in writing. If moving assistance is relevant, ask us to specify its scope before relying on it. Tell the professionals involved about changes promptly so a delay in one person’s arrangements does not become a surprise at closing.
BEFORE YOU DECIDE
Your questions, answered.
Can one spouse request information?
Yes. A preliminary inquiry can provide information, but it does not establish authority to sell or bind the other person.
Can we sell while a divorce is pending?
Possibly. Have your attorney review applicable orders, consent requirements and the facts before signing.
Will you decide how proceeds are split?
No. Your agreement, attorneys and any applicable court process address the distribution.
Can proposals go to our attorneys?
Discuss your preferred communication arrangements at the outset so the right people receive the information.
Can we choose a closing date?
Share your preferred date. The agreed schedule must also accommodate required legal approvals and closing steps.