One of the biggest emotional shifts you will experience when getting a divorce is suddenly living on your own again. It’s hard to know what to expect when you and your partner decide to end your marriage, but it’s clear you will no longer go on living in a house or other dwelling together. One of you will need to move out and, at least in the short term while finances are being sorted, and begin renting an apartment.
If you will be moving, try not to jump at the first place you find just to get this step out of the way. Instead, take the time to look at available options and select an apartment or home where you and your children will feel most at home during this substantial change of lifestyle. And don’t sell yourself short on the space and surroundings. Suddenly living in a tiny space, with the kids sleeping on the sofa, can leave all of you feeling unsettled.
Price Matters
Looking into renting an apartment after divorce is also going to depend on the state of your finances. Keep in mind that the mortgage on the family home will have to be paid while awaiting the divorce to be finalized and assets divided. If you are paying monthly spousal or child support, those amounts will also figure into the range of rental prices you can afford. Another aspect to consider when budgeting during a divorce is financing upcoming legal fees, such as attorney fees, mediation fees or court costs.
This is why planning ahead is so critical at this point in your life. Although there may be unexpected costs, try to take all of the above items into account when calculating new monthly expenditures.
Getting Everything You Need
Along with price, there are other things to consider before renting your first apartment after getting divorced. High on the list should be location, particularly if you have school-aged children. You can minimize the disruption in their lives by making an effort to stay in their school district, keeping them close to their school, friends, sporting and other activities. Staying locally can make a significant difference in how easily kids will acclimate to the change.
Another consideration when shopping for a new home is the number of bedrooms and bathrooms. You may be just fine in a studio, but it’s important for the kids to feel welcome and wanted when they stay with you. Getting a place with an extra bedroom dedicated to your child goes a long way toward helping them feel like they are at home.
If your biggest worry about moving into a new place is finances, you are not alone. Money can be very strenuous in relationships, but staying together because it’s less expensive doesn’t work. It is among the worst reasons to stay married. Don’t hesitate to lean on your support network, including friends, family and your family law attorney. With their help, rest assured that you will get through this.