7 Things Divorcees Should Do Before Listing Their Home for Sale in Honolulu

Divorce is difficult. I know, as I unfortunately had a divorce in 2023.

Selling a home after divorce can be emotionally draining — and financially complex, as well. Between dividing assets, coordinating with attorneys, and preparing the property for market, it’s easy to make mistakes that cost time, money, and peace of mind.

If you’re navigating a separation in Honolulu and preparing to sell, here are 7 important steps to protect your interests and set yourself up for a smooth, successful sale.

1. Confirm Who Has Legal Authority to Sell

Before anything else, clarify who’s legally allowed to make decisions about the sale.
If both parties are listed on title, both signatures will likely be required for listing and closing.

If your divorce decree or court order specifies how proceeds are to be split — or who can act on behalf of both — provide those documents to your agent early. This prevents escrow delays and misunderstandings down the road.

2. Get a Clear Understanding of Your Home’s Current Market Value

Emotions aside, it’s essential to know what your home is really worth in today’s Honolulu market.
Request a comparative market analysis (CMA) from an experienced local REALTOR® familiar with your neighborhood — not just a quick online estimate. In neighborhoods like Hawaii Kai, Kailua, and Manoa, values can fluctuate dramatically based on view, upgrades, and lot size.

3. Review Your Mortgage and Liabilities

Before listing, determine your remaining mortgage balance, any home equity lines of credit, or pending liens or association fees.

Knowing your exact payoff and potential proceeds helps you and your ex-spouse make clear financial decisions — and prevents last-minute surprises during escrow.

4. Prepare the Property Together (as Best You Can)

Even if emotions are high, aim for cooperation when it comes to presentation.

Declutter, make small repairs, and neutralize the home so it appeals to the widest range of buyers.

If joint decisions are tough, consider hiring a neutral stager or listing coordinator to handle presentation without taking sides.

5. Decide How You’ll Handle Offers and Communication

Before your home hits the market, agree — in writing if possible — on how offers will be reviewed, who communicates with the agent, and how decisions will be made.

Setting expectations early avoids emotional flare-ups later and keeps negotiations smooth.

6. Plan for Where You’ll Go Next

Selling the marital home is one step — but where will each party live next?

Start exploring rental or purchase options before listing.

This avoids rushed decisions once escrow closes and gives you both time to transition with less stress.

7. Call Jon S. Mann Sooner — Not Later

Too many divorcees wait until things are messy to call for real estate help.

But the earlier you bring in a trusted local broker like myself, Jon S. Mann (RB-19922), Broker-in-Charge at Hawai‘i Life — the more control you’ll have over timing, pricing, and process.

I have helped countless Honolulu homeowners navigate complex sales involving divorce, trusts, and court orders — with discretion, clarity, and compassion.

Reach out early — even if you’re still deciding whether to sell. A quick, confidential consultation can save you weeks of stress and thousands in potential costs.

Final Thoughts

Divorce is hard — selling your home doesn’t have to be.

With the right preparation, clear communication, and professional guidance, you can move forward confidently into your next chapter. I can be reached at 808-728-1230….Aloha, Jon.