Welcome To Vandenberg Real Estate Solutions Blog
Vandenberg Real Estate Solution's blog is written by a real estate and divorce specialist in Maple Ridge, Tri-Cities and The Fraser Valley. This is a place to learn about real estate advice for sellers, real estate advice for buyers, divorce real estate advice, be inspired, and keep informed about industry updates.
REVENGE SPENDING AND EMOTIONAL FINANCIAL DECISIONS
Revenge spending and emotional financial decisions. How emotions drives spending, selling assets or refusing to cooperate financially.
Here’s a breakdown of revenge spending and emotion-driven financial decisions and how they impact financial stability:
FINANCIAL INFIDELITY IN A MARRIAGE: HOW HIDDEN DEBT, SECRET SPENDING OR UNDISCLOSED INVESTMENTS COME TO LIGHT IN A DIVORCE
Financial infidelity in a marriage—things like hidden debt, secret spending, or undisclosed investments—often comes to light during divorce, and it can have serious emotional and legal consequences. Here’s how these financial secrets are usually uncovered in the divorce process:
WHAT HAPPENS If ONE SPOUSE REFUSES TO SELL THE MARITAL HOME
What happens if one spouse refuses to sell the marital home? When you are going through a divorce and you are at the stage of dividing the assets and property, sometimes you are not both in agreement to sell the marital home. There are several options available to you when the other spouse refuses to sell the home.
CAN AN EX-SPOUSE CLAIM A FUTURE INHERITANCE?
n British Columbia, an ex-spouse generally cannot claim a future inheritance that has not yet been received. A potential inheritance is considered a mere expectancy—meaning it’s not guaranteed—and therefore, it is not treated as family property under the Family Law Act. Until the inheritance is actually received, it does not form part of the assets to be divided during a separation or divorce.
DIVORCING WITH A FAMILY BUSINESS. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN BOTH SPOUSES CO-OWN AND WORK IN THE SAME BUSINESS
Divorcing when both spouses co-own and work in the same business can be especially complex. Unlike other marital assets, a business is not just a financial entity—it’s often deeply tied to identity, livelihood, and long-term goals. When a couple decides to separate, figuring out what happens to the family business requires careful legal, financial, and emotional considerations.
IF AN INHERITANCE IS USED TO BUY A HOME, CAN IT BECOME FAMILY PROPERTY AND BE SUBJECT TO DIVISION DURING A DIVORCE?
In British Columbia, if an inheritance is used to buy a family home, it can become family property and be subject to division during divorce — even though inheritances are typically excluded from division.
WHY MIDLIFE CRISIS DIVORCES ARE DIFFERENT
Divorce during a midlife crisis hits differently than in other stages of life. It’s not just the end of a marriage—it’s often tied to deeper questions about identity, aging, unmet dreams, and the fear of time running out.
HOW NOT TO OVERSPEND WHEN PURCHASING A HOME
When purchasing a real estate property you need a strategic approach to stay on budget and not overspend. Avoiding overspending on a property requires discipline, research, and strategic decision-making.
COTTONWOOD MAPLE RIDGE BC NEIGHBOURHOOD GUIDE
Whether you are buying a home, townhome or condo, Cottonwood is a great community. Cottonwood is a welcoming neighborhood located in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, offering a harmonious blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Cottonwood provides residents with a high quality of life amidst picturesque surroundings.
ALBION MAPLE RIDGE BC NEIGHBOURHOOD GUIDE
Whether you are buying a home, townhome or condo Albion is a great community. Nestled within the vibrant city of Maple Ridge, British Columbia, lies the historic neighborhood of Albion. As the oldest non-Indigenous settlement in the district, Albion boasts a rich tapestry of history, community spirit, and modern development
10 WAYS TO BEAT THE DIVORCE BLUES
Divorce can be an emotional rollercoaster, often bringing feelings of depression and anxiety. It is important to combat these feelings and regain emotional balance.
10 COSTLY MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN APPLYING FOR A MORTGAGE
Applying for a mortgage is a significant financial step, and even small mistakes can impact your approval to qualify for a real estate purchase. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or refinancing, avoiding these common pitfalls will help ensure a smooth mortgage process when buying a home.
HOW DIVORCE AFFECTS YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Divorce can have a significant impact on your financial future, including your retirement savings. In British Columbia, retirement accounts are often considered family property and are subject to division. Here’s what you need to know to protect your retirement during a divorce.
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO ASK ABOUT HOME UPGRADES WHEN BUYING A HOME
When purchasing a home, asking “What kind of upgrades have been made to the home?” helps you understand the property’s condition, potential hidden issues, and future costs. Here’s why this question matters:
PROTECT YOUR REAL ESTATE RIGHTS DURING A DIVORCE
In British Columbia, all real estate acquired during the marriage (and sometimes before, depending on contributions) is considered family property under the Family Law Act.
6 THINGS YOU NEED TO DO AFTER YOU SELL YOUR MARITAL HOME
After selling your marital home, it’s important to take several steps to ensure your financial and emotional stability as you move forward.
SURVIVING CO-LIVING WITH YOUR EX-SPOUSE
When going through a divorce, not everyone has the financial means to have two separate living quarters. Some couples choose to live under the same roof while they are preparing for divorce and selling the marital home. While co-living with a soon-to-be ex-spouse can be incredibly challenging, but with the right approach, it is possible to maintain peace and emotional well-being during this transition period. Here are some great strategies to help you survive this challenging living arrangement:
MAKING THE MARITAL HOME FEEL LIKE YOUR OWN WHEN KEEPING THE HOUSE AFTER DIVORCE
Updating your home after a divorce can be a therapeutic process, making it feel more like a reflection of you and less tied to the past. Taking these steps, big or small, can help you feel comfortable and confident in your own space.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT SUPPORT PAYMENTS WHEN QUALIFYING FOR A MORTGAGE
When thinking about buying a home after divorce you need to qualify for a real estate mortgage. Support payments like child support and spousal support can help when qualifying for a mortgage, as they may be considered as additional income. However, there are specific criteria and documentation requirements needed in order to qualify.
WHAT COSTS COME WITH SELLING A HOME
Selling a home typically involves several real estate costs that can add up, so it’s essential to budget for these to avoid surprises. Here’s a breakdown of the common expenses when selling a home on the real estate market.

