We talk about what happens when a matrimonial home must be sold but one spouse is not allowing showings, and there is also a court order preventing the other spouse from attending the property.
As matrimonial realtors, our job is not to decide who is right or wrong or get in the middle of the conflict, but to create a process that allows the property to be marketed and sold while respecting the court order and protecting everyone.
We start by understanding what the order permits and, when necessary, communicate through the parties’ lawyers. Then we structure the showing process with defined windows, appropriate notice, documented communication, and ensure the spouse prohibited from attending does not need to be there. We respect that the occupying spouse may feel showings are an intrusion, but buyers need reasonable access; without it, the property may not be properly exposed, affecting both spouses financially.
When access becomes difficult, we do not escalate conflict, we document, communicate, involve counsel only if necessary, and keep bringing the conversation back to protecting the property, respecting the court order, and achieving the best possible sale for both parties.
Experience in matrimonial real estate matters.
