It’s important to get the property division process right when divorcing. Failing to do this can lead to one party being unfairly disadvantaged, perhaps making it harder for them to start their new, single life and serving as a future source of conflict.
You will likely concentrate on working out how to split out the big value items, such as the house, retirement funds and savings accounts. But what about all the relatively small things you own? The sort of things that you accumulate over the years to be able to function. For example, plates, pots and pans, cutlery, a vacuum cleaner, or a set of garden tools.
Take turns to select items
Some couples take turns picking items. For example, one person picks the washing machine, and the other then chooses the fridge. Creating a comprehensive list will make this easier.
Allow the person who most wants it to have it
There are likely some things that are much more special or useful to you than your spouse and vice versa. Starting the conversation by telling your spouse that you know how much they like that painting could be a good way for them to return the favor by telling you that you can keep the set of tools that they will never use, for example.
Give them away
You may be surprised at how much you have accumulated over the years. Now could be the ideal time to get rid of some of the excess clutter by either giving it to someone you know would like it or taking it to a thrift store.
There’s a lot to consider when divorcing, so don’t be afraid to ask questions to ensure you are appropriately informed.