one spouse fails to make their share of payments, it can adversely affect both parties’ credit ratings and complicate the later sale of the home, and especially a refinance or subsequent purchase. If each spouse has provided appropriate evidence that they have sufficient resources to maintain this type of arrangement and is willing to participate in the agreement, this may be the right path. Some couples choose to reside in the home as roommates for different reasons. It might be that neither spouse is able to afford both their share of the home and a new residence, or it could be to decrease the abruptness and difficulty of the children’s transition. If, later, one leaves, that person will have increased financial obligations in finding a new place to live, so give serious thought before choosing this option. Be aware, though, that some spouses are tied to the home, not only by their children but by their own emotional investment. The house represents stability and a happier time, and provides shelter from the trauma of divorce. In keeping it, they may feel more in control of their situation. Some may think that keeping the home makes them the “winner,” despite the financial hardship it can bring. It is difficult enough to deal with divorce without later learning that unforeseen or unbudgeted expenses have crept in and taken a big bite of already tight finances. Be realistic about what is affordable. Another very important consideration to factor in that is often an afterthought, is that keeping the marital house does not guarantee that your children will decide to live with you, nor does it necessarily give you an upper hand. One thing we forget is that kids are like water, and historically will take the path of least resistance in efforts to maintain homeostasis. They don't care about your $10,000 quartzite countertops, or the designer window treatments that you enjoy looking at daily. Kids, and especially older kids, want their routines to remain the same with respect to school and their friends, and would potentially welcome the opportunity to start fresh in a new home. What I've found over the years is that
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