One of the first details that spouses must determine when they decide to get a divorce is what their new living arrangements will be.
Many individuals will want to stay in their family home. In fact, disputes over how to divide the marital residence are one of the most common arguments spouses run into during a divorce. However, it is rare for spouses to live under the same roof during the stressful proceedings of their divorce.
Most of the time, one spouse will move out of the marital residence once the parties decide to separate from each other. Here are a few things individuals must consider if they are moving out upon separation.
What are the details you must evaluate?
A spouse cannot move out at the drop of a hat after deciding to separate. There are many factors to consider when deciding where to live, including:
- Time: Choosing a new home or living situation should not be a quick decision right after spouses decide to separate. It takes time and careful thought to find a good place to live that meets an individual’s needs – as well as their family’s situation.
- Price: Whether individuals are looking to buy or rent a new place, it must be within their budget. Separating and getting a divorce can often be expensive and finding a new place to live on top of that can have a significant impact on someone’s finances.
- Location: Individuals will want to find a new place that is still close enough to their work and their family. That way, they can be near their children and do not have far to travel while negotiating the details of the separation. It is also important to find a safe place to live, since where a parent lives is a factor that may influence the custody arrangement, whether agreed upon by the parties or ordered by a Court.
It is important not to rush into this decision. Your living situation can have a significant impact on your mental and physical health. Finding a good place to live could set the stage for how individuals approach the next chapter in their life.
Will this living situation be temporary or long-term?
Another critical factor that individuals must decide is how long they plan to live in this new place. Is this just a temporary solution until they finalize the divorce? Or will they continue to live here even after the divorce?
This generally depends on the circumstances. Some individuals find temporary accommodations because they already have enough on their plates, both financially and emotionally. Others might want to find a permanent place to start their new life.
Whatever decision individuals make, they should make sure their new place meets their needs, as well as the needs of their family.