House is going on the market

[financialwizard]

This might turn into a bit of a rant, so I apologise in advance if it does.

House is going on the market in the next couple of days. Estranged husband has agreed to sign the paperwork. I do feel sad, but I also know that the running costs would be prohibitive to me so it is the right thing to do.

His solicitor has allegedly been given a rocket with regard to completing the contact order and sending it to me, and apparently his financials with his preferred settlement suggestion are also with her.

I am not 100% sure if I believe him, but time will tell.

I am in a position where I can exchange financial disclosures, however I don't know whether to put in my preferred settlement suggestion at the time of putting in my financials (have been guided by a solicitor, but am not using one to negotiate) or to wait until I see sight of his and laugh hysterically

Any thoughts on this?

We are still living in the fmh. He wants this done asap, as do I really. Decree Nisi is being heard (reasons for divorce already agreed by the court) soon.

I have just exchanged Form Es. I did not state my referred settlement suggestion. I would rather keep cards close to my chest until I see what he would like.

That's what I thought too Sprig1. Plus I then feel like I have a proper idea of what to negotiate.

I think it is sensible. You may be happy to settle for an option that would have not been your preferred course of action, if the deal is good enough.

Never be the first to show your hand IMO. Also, chin up re the house. I'm about 4 to 6 weeks behind you and will need to do the same. Houses are just bricks and mortor. It's the people in it that make it a home. You'll find another place and make it your own and full it with love just as I plan to do.

Are you at least using a mediator to help with the finances? It's quite handy. I've submitted my form E to her with the instructions that if his isn't submitted he doesn't see mine.

No we aren't. He is insisting on using his solicitor and won't use mediation. I can't afford to pay a solicitor.

Your husband is obliged to attend at least one mediation session before the case goes to court.

Well we won't be going to court then, he'll have to settle out of court if he won't attend mediation. I think the reality is that he wants me to negotiate with his solicitor. That might not be a bad thing as his solicitor will at least be able to tell him if it is a fair deal or not.