When couples divorce in the Washington, DC metro area, one of the most challenging questions is what happens to shared real estate—especially the family home. Whether your property is in Northwest DC, Chevy Chase, Bethesda, McLean, or Arlington, how the home is handled during divorce can impact your financial future and emotional well-being.
This guide breaks down what typically happens to a home during divorce in DC, Maryland, and Virginia, offering a clear, practical overview based on local market norms and long-standing real estate experience.
The Home is Typically Considered Marital Property
In most DC-area divorces, the family home is considered “marital property” if it was purchased during the marriage or used as the primary residence. That means it’s subject to division—even if only one spouse is listed on the title or mortgage.
Depending on the situation, you may encounter one of the following outcomes:
- Sell the house and divide the proceeds
- One spouse buys the other out
- Co-own temporarily after divorce
- Use the home to offset other assets in the settlement
Option 1: Selling the Home
The most common outcome—especially when the home carries significant equity—is to sell it and divide the proceeds. This approach provides both parties with a clean financial start and avoids ongoing legal and financial entanglements.
Selling the home may be the most efficient choice if:
- Neither spouse can afford the mortgage alone
- There are substantial debts to settle
- Both spouses need access to equity
- The property value is at or near its peak based on market conditions
Option 2: One Spouse Buys Out the Other
If one spouse wants to remain in the home and can afford to do so, a buyout may be possible. This involves refinancing into one spouse’s name and paying the other their share of the equity.
This scenario is more common in established and family-focused neighborhoods like Spring Valley, Wesley Heights, Bethesda, and Arlington.
Option 3: Co-Ownership After Divorce
Some ex-spouses agree to co-own the home temporarily after splitting—often for the benefit of children or for better timing in the market. This approach requires a written agreement that specifies:
- Who pays for the mortgage, taxes, maintenance
- When the property will be sold
- How equity will be divided later
While less common, co-ownership can work with careful planning in high-value areas such as McLean or Great Falls.
How Equity Is Divided
Equity distribution is based on your settlement agreement or court decision. In the DC area, courts consider fairness—not a strict 50/50 split. Factors may include:
- Financial contributions during the marriage
- Work contributions like homemaking or childcare
- Who paid for renovations or mortgage
- Custody arrangements affecting the home
What Happens If Neither Spouse Cooperates?
If spouses cannot agree on what to do with the home, the court may order a forced sale. This ensures each party gets their share and prevents the home from becoming a long-term legal burden.
The Role of a Real Estate Advisor During Divorce
Real estate professionals play an essential neutral role in divorce sales. In my 20+ years of experience working with divorcing clients across the DMV, I’ve learned that success requires:
- Clear communication with both parties
- Objective market analysis and pricing
- Discretion, privacy, and respect throughout
- Negotiating fairly and efficiently to avoid delays
I work with your attorneys or mediators as needed and provide strategic guidance based on the local market—from Capitol Hill to Chevy Chase to McLean.
Final Word
Divorce is never easy, but handling your home with clarity and confidence can help both parties move forward. Whether you’re selling, buying out your ex-spouse, or pausing on the next move, a detailed plan and experienced guidance make all the difference.
About Matt Cheney
Matt Cheney is a top-producing real estate advisor with Compass in Washington, DC, guiding buyers and sellers across DC, Maryland, and Virginia through high-stakes moves, from luxury sales to estate settlements, downsizing, and divorce-related transactions. With over $771 million in career sales volume and 22 years of experience, including more than two decades working on complex and sensitive real estate situations, Matt is known for calm, strategic guidance and brings hundreds of successful sales to clients seeking clarity and support during life transitions.