When the Property Market Turns

In family law matters the sale of the family home is often the most difficult and emotional part of the separation process.  And everything is just that much harder in the current environment, with rising interest rates and inflation making the entire market uncertain.For regional families things are even more opaque, because so much of what we see on social media or television relates to big city real estate markets.  So it can be difficult to figure out the local dynamics.To help our Coffs Coast listeners get a handle on the market and the issues related to selling a home after separation, Ben and Heather welcome two local experts.Stacey Parks is a Certified Practising Valuer with property valuation specialists Herron Todd White.  Craig Gardner is a partner and sales agent for Coffs Coast realtor Nolan Partners.  Collectively this foursome provide some insights into the following commonly asked questions.What factors influence the housing market on the Coffs Coast?At a time (like now) when housing prices are uncertain is it better to sell or wait it out?How does a valuer go about valuing real estate in an uncertain market?Has the method of selling a home shifted in recent years?  Are we seeing more or less auctions or private sales?If you are separating when the market is uncertain, does it matter whether you sell the house before or after divorce?What if you want to sell quickly but your partner refuses to sell?  Is there anything you can do?Can a realtor put a home on the market if only one joint owner requests the sale?What happens if joint owners can't agree on the listing price?What happens if joint owners can't agree on auction day?What are the key factors in valuing property?How does a valuer value property when one partner is buying out the other?What if you can't afford to buy out your ex but you also don't want to sell the family home.  Are there options?Episode note (important): This episode was recorded before changes to property settlement provisions commenced on 10 June 2025. The way the Court determines a just and equitable outcome in property matters has been updated since this recording, so some legal references in this episode may now be out of date. Please seek current legal advice and refer to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia and Attorney-General’s Department resources for the latest information.