Posted on
June 23, 2025
by
Victoria Fung
Divorce is never easy — emotionally, legally, or financially. And when you're navigating this major life transition, questions about your living situation naturally come up. One of the most common is:
“Can I buy a home during my divorce?”
The answer? It depends.
In this blog, we’ll break down what you need to know about buying property before your divorce is finalized, from the legal rules to how lenders evaluate your financials, and why having a Divorce Realtor Specialist like Victoria Fung can make all the difference.
Legal Considerations: Is It Allowed?
In British Columbia, assets acquired before the divorce is finalized may still be considered part of the matrimonial property — even if you're legally separated.
Here’s what that means for buyers:
New purchases could be subject to division.
If you buy a property before your divorce is finalized, your ex-spouse may have a claim to it unless there is a clear separation agreement or court order stating otherwise.
A signed separation agreement matters.
If you’ve already agreed on property division in writing, and both parties are moving forward amicably, then buying a new home may be more straightforward.
Talk to a family lawyer first.
Before making any major financial moves during divorce, legal guidance is crucial to protect your interests.
What Lenders Look For
Even if it’s legally possible, financing a home during a divorce comes with its own challenges. Lenders will scrutinize your financial situation more closely, especially if joint debts and shared liabilities are still in the picture.
Key considerations include:
Spousal support obligations:
If you’re paying or receiving spousal or child support, lenders will factor that into your debt-to-income ratio.
Joint debts (like mortgages):
If your name is still on the current mortgage, it may affect your borrowing power — even if you’ve moved out.
Credit score impacts:
Divorce can complicate finances. If shared accounts are missed or maxed out, it can impact your credit score, which lenders review closely.
Tip: A clear, written agreement about how debts and assets are being handled can make a big difference when applying for a mortgage.
Should You Wait to Buy?
While it’s possible to buy a home during divorce, it’s not always practical. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide:
Pros:
You can start fresh and regain control over your living situation.
You may find the perfect property and not want to risk missing it.
It can be a step toward emotional and financial independence.
Cons:
Potential legal entanglements with your ex-spouse.
Added stress during an already difficult process.
Financing hurdles or needing to make a larger down payment.
Why Work with a Divorce-Savvy Realtor?
This is where working with a Divorce Realtor like Victoria Fung can be a game-changer.
Victoria understands that buying (or selling) a home during divorce requires more than just market expertise — it requires compassion, discretion, and clear communication. She works closely with clients and their legal teams to ensure every decision is informed, fair, and tailored to their best interest.
With Divcore Realtor Victoria by your side, you get:
A trusted advocate who respects the sensitivity of your situation
Experience navigating property sales and purchases during separation
A calm, professional guide who reduces stress and avoids conflict
Ready to Talk?
If you’re going through a separation or divorce and have questions about buying or selling a home, know that you don’t have to navigate this alone.
Victoria Fung is not just any Vancouver Realtor — she’s a Divorce Real Estate Specialist who brings knowledge, patience, and heart to every client experience.
Contact Victoria Today
info@victoriafung.ca
Call:- (778) 389-7683
-e-o4nmlo.png)