Working with a real estate specialty of people in Divorce has its ups and downs, just like all real estate. The emotional swings of selling a home in normal circumstances are like a roller coaster. Add the divorce into the mix and you can have a double twister over the top ride of emotions.  Here are some guidelines that I use.

1.Set Realistic expectation: I think my job is to keep the emotional level balanced while being truthful about the prospects and the market.  My best case scenario is to talk to the divorce attorneys and give them realistic expectations about the cost to sell, the days on market and the selling price. No inflated expectations or goals here, because a divorce settlement is structured on asset value and it doesn't help anyone to over estimate the value of a home and then everyone is disaappointed.

2. Know the customer's court schedule. I try not to call and give the client bad news about a bad feedback report on a court day. Those days are stressful and no need to pass along more negative news. Feedback can wait. So can news about a comparable home selling while their home just sits.

3. Know your clients. Try to understand the client. Not their divorce issues. Know the kids names, if applicable and know the parenting schedule. Maybe it would be so bad not to allow showings on Wednesday nights cause Dad has the kids at the marital  home. Does that house have to be immaculate or is play time more important?

This is a tricky business ringing with high emotions.  I think part of my job is to have a client for life but everyone's goal is to get the house sold and quickly. Balance balance balance.