Many divorcing couples are finding they cannot afford to physically separate until the house is sold.  Because many people do not have sufficient equity or great credit, they are stuck together ‘until sold house do us part.’  

However, some homeowners find an advantage to sticking around.  Because home buyers are ever more savvy, they look for reasons behind a home sale and a divorce may be to their advantage.  If a separation is in progress and the homeowners are in distress, buyers may offer a lower price.   Some amateur sleuths have even been known to look in the closets for signs of a spouse’s missing clothing.  So giving the appearance of a normal, healthy household has its advantages.