🏡 Conversations to Have With Your Partner Before Listing Your Home

A RARE Group Guide

Introduction

Selling your home is one of life’s biggest transitions. Selling while navigating change — whether divorce, downsizing, or a fresh start — adds layers of complexity. The truth is, most stress and conflict in the selling process can be avoided by having the right conversations upfront.

This guide outlines the 10 must-have conversations with your partner before you list — conversations that protect your equity, minimize conflict, and keep the process moving smoothly.

The Decision to Sell

Why it matters: Clarity is everything. Before any sign goes up, both parties need to agree that selling is the right decision.

Questions to ask:

• Are we both committed to selling?

• Is one of us considering keeping the home?

• Do we both understand the implications of this choice?

Timeline and Urgency

Why it matters: Timing influences pricing, staging, and financial planning. Without alignment, frustration grows.

Questions to ask:

• Are we looking for a quick sale or are we prepared to wait?

• Do we need the equity released by a certain date?

• How flexible are we with showing schedules and possession dates?

Page 4. Financial Responsibilities

Why it matters: Mortgage, taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintenance continue until the home sells. Clear agreements prevent resentment.

Questions to ask:

• Who will pay what until closing?

• How will we divide moving costs?

• Should we open a shared account for these expenses?

Listing Price & Strategy

Why it matters: Pricing is one of the most emotional topics. “What we need” is not what the market decides. Agreeing on strategy avoids tension.

Questions to ask:

• Are we prepared to list based on market data, not sentiment?

• How will we handle a price reduction if the home does not sell quickly?

• Do we both understand the difference between “listed” and “sold” prices?

Communication Rules

Why it matters: Both parties must sign, but the how of communication determines whether the process is smooth or chaotic.

Questions to ask:

• Will we use a shared email thread or group chat with our agent?

• How will we make decisions if one of us is unavailable?

• Do we both commit to responding promptly to offers and updates?

Home Preparation & Staging

Why it matters: Presentation drives value. Even during emotional times, the home must shine for buyers.

Questions to ask:

• What items will we declutter, donate, or store?

• Are we willing to invest in staging?

• How will we divide the work of preparing the home?

Division of Proceeds

Why it matters: Money conversations are often the hardest but most essential. Agreeing early avoids painful disputes at closing.

Questions to ask:

• • How will the net proceeds be divided?

  • Will legal agreements be drafted in advance?

  • What about any outstanding joint debts tied to the home?

The Role of Professionals

Why it matters: Selling a home is a legal and financial transaction. The right professionals protect both equity and peace of mind.

Questions to ask:

• Do we both agree on the listing agent?

• Should we each retain legal counsel?

• Do we need a financial advisor or mediator involved?

Protecting Privacy & Respect

Why it matters: Selling during transition can feel vulnerable. Privacy, discretion, and respect must be prioritized.

Questions to ask:

• How much information will we share with friends or family?

• How do we want our agent to handle sensitive questions from buyers?

• How can we commit to treating each other with respect throughout this process?

Conclusion

Selling a home with a partner is more than a transaction ... it’s a chapter of your life story. By having these conversations first, you protect not only your investment but also your peace of mind.

At RARE Group, we have guided countless clients through sensitive transitions with professionalism, discretion, and compassion. If you are preparing to list, we invite you to connect with us in confidence.

✨ RARE Group; We’re ALL in!

RAREGroup.ca | REAL Broker Luxury Division