Twin Cities, Minnesota Divorce Real Estate: Gray Divorce — Why Real Estate Expertise Matters More Than Ever
Divorce later in life is no longer uncommon. In fact, for many couples across the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota, it has become an increasingly familiar reality.
Often referred to as gray divorce, the dissolution of marriage after age 50 presents challenges that differ significantly from those faced earlier in life. At this stage, the family home frequently represents far more than a place to live — it may be one of the largest financial assets either spouse will ever hold.
For homeowners between the ages of 50 and 64, average home equity is estimated at approximately $143,500, accounting for nearly one-third of total net worth. For many, that equity plays a critical role in retirement planning, long-term housing stability, and overall financial security.
When divorce occurs later in life, decisions surrounding the home deserve thoughtful, informed guidance.
When the Home Represents More Than Property
In a gray divorce, selling or transferring a home is rarely a straightforward transaction. It is not simply about pricing, marketing, or timing.
It is about dividing a shared financial future.
Unlike younger couples, individuals in midlife and beyond often have fewer years to rebuild financially. Choices made during the divorce process — particularly those involving real estate — can have lasting consequences that extend well into retirement.
These decisions may influence:
Long-term financial stability
Retirement readiness
Tax implications
Housing options later in life
Estate planning outcomes
Without proper guidance, even well-intentioned decisions can unintentionally compromise future security.
Why Divorce-Specific Real Estate Expertise Matters
This is where specialized real estate knowledge becomes especially important.
Certified Divorce Real Estate Experts (CDREs) are professionals who receive training specifically focused on the legal, financial, and emotional dynamics of divorce-related property transactions. Their role goes well beyond placing a home on the market.
A CDRE® is educated to:
Help preserve marital equity
Remain neutral and balanced between both parties
Understand court orders, timelines, and legal constraints
Coordinate effectively with family law attorneys, mediators, and financial advisors
Provide clear, well-supported property valuations that assist equitable decision-making
When significant assets — and long-term financial well-being — are involved, having a professional who understands the divorce process can help reduce conflict, confusion, and costly missteps.
If you are navigating a divorce in Minneapolis, St. Paul, or the greater Twin Cities area and require guidance with a home sale, property valuation, or buyout, Shannon Lindstrom, Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE®), is available to assist.
Shannon Lindstrom, Realtor®, CDRE®, MILRES, MRP, VCA
RE/MAX Results – Minneapolis & St. Paul Metro
7373 Kirkwood Court No, Ste. 300
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Direct: 612-616-9714
Lindstrom_S@msn.com
Shannon@ShannonLindstromRealtor.com
www.ShannonLindstromRealtor.com
www.ShannonLindstrom.info
https://www.ilumniinstitute.com/cdre/shannon-lindstrom
www.MNDivorceRealEstateExpert.com
