Divorce Real Estate Specialist Orange County CA – Aragone & Associates

Selling Property During Divorce in California

California is a community property state, meaning assets acquired during marriage are generally owned equally by both spouses. Real estate is often the largest shared asset, making its proper handling critical to a fair divorce settlement. Whether the decision is to sell the home, have one spouse buy out the other, or arrange a deferred sale, having an experienced neutral real estate specialist protects both parties.

Community Property and Real Estate

What Qualifies as Community Property?

Any real estate purchased during the marriage with community funds is generally community property, regardless of whose name is on the title. Properties owned before marriage, received as gifts, or inherited may be separate property, though commingling of funds can change this classification.

Property Division Options

There are three primary options for handling real estate in an Orange County divorce. First, sell the property and divide the net proceeds equally. Second, one spouse buys out the other’s interest, typically through a refinance. Third, a deferred sale (Dewhurst order) allows one spouse (usually with minor children) to remain in the home temporarily, with the sale deferred to a future date.

The Role of a Neutral Real Estate Specialist

Paula Aragone serves as a neutral third-party real estate professional in divorce cases. This means providing unbiased property valuations, honest market analyses, and professional service to both parties equally. This neutral approach is trusted by family law attorneys throughout Orange County and helps minimize conflict during an already difficult time.

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