Family Law and Real Estate April 8, 2025

From the Courtroom to the Closing Table: Navigating Property Division Without Adding Stress

As someone who spent years as a licensed clinical social worker before becoming a residential real estate agent in Denver, I understand how emotionally charged life transitions can be—especially divorce. And while I’ve helped countless clients navigate everything from first-time home purchases to high-end luxury sales, there’s something uniquely complex about real estate in the context of a separation.

That’s why I recently pursued my designation as a Residential Real Estate Divorce Specialist through the Council of Residential Specialists. This certification is designed for real estate professionals who are committed to serving divorcing clients with a higher level of care, professionalism, and understanding. The training includes a deep dive into both the human and legal sides of divorce, with coursework focused on property division, mortgage financing, title concerns, and the emotional toll this process can take on clients. In short, it arms agents like me with the knowledge and tools to serve as an advocate—not just a salesperson.

When two people are untangling a shared life, the home isn’t just a structure—it’s layered with memories, meaning, and financial implications. With my combined background in psychology and real estate, I’m uniquely positioned to help make this part of the process just a little less stressful.


A Different Kind of Asset

For most couples, the home is their largest shared asset. It’s not just about square footage or mortgage rates—it’s where you raised children, hosted holidays, or started your next chapter. Deciding what happens to that space during a divorce can be emotional, and at times, overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be chaotic.

Real estate in divorce requires more than market knowledge. It demands empathy, strategy, and a calm, steady hand to help guide both parties through the process. That’s where I come in.


Clear Communication, Fair Solutions

One of the first things I focus on with divorcing clients is clarity—on the value of the property, the financial implications of selling or staying, and what each party needs to move forward. I approach this with compassion and a clinical understanding of how trauma and stress can impact decision-making.

Here’s how I help make this transition smoother:

  • Accurate Market Analysis: I provide clear, up-to-date property valuations supported by market data and trends from trusted sources like REcolorado.

  • Objective Recommendations: My role is not to take sides, but to offer realistic strategies that protect both parties’ best interests.

  • Referral Network: If needed, I can connect you with attorneys, mediators, lenders, or financial planners who specialize in divorce-related matters.

Whether the goal is to sell the home and split the proceeds or to buy out one party’s share, I help ensure that the transaction is handled with transparency and professionalism.


Reducing Stress Where It Counts

No one expects real estate to be easy during a divorce—but it also doesn’t have to make things harder. My approach is rooted in calm, clear communication and a deep respect for the emotional weight of this transition. I listen. I advocate. I guide.

The Residential Real Estate Divorce Specialist Certification solidifies my ability to serve as a neutral, knowledgeable professional in an often emotional and high-stakes situation. It reinforces what I’ve always believed: that when you meet people where they are, with clarity and care, you can make even the most complex transitions feel manageable.

If you’re a homeowner navigating a separation—or a family law professional looking for a trusted partner in this process—I’d love to connect.

Let’s work together to move from the courtroom to the closing table with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

— Renee Cohen