What exactly is mediation?

[Deleted]

So, at first I thought my STBXH and I could sort things out on our own... but we're running into a disagreement over our house. He does not want to sell the house and wants to rent it out as an investment property. I'm not interested in that at all and would like to get my name off the house to make a clean break and move on. I'm trying to figure out how best to get my name off the house while not relinquishing any $ that should be mine. I don't expect this to a contentious discussion, assuming there's an option out there that works for both of us. This doesn't seem like something we need a lawyer for; it's more about understanding what the different options are that we can pursue. Is that sort of what a mediator would do as opposed to a lawyer? What does a mediator actually do, and how does it differ from lawyers? TIA for any advice or guidance you all have to share.

[1confused1]

I've only been to mediation for custody, but I believe they are a neutral party who can help you work through issues, like the one you are facing.

[alleinesein]

They are a neutral party that can help you with your divorce. My friend specializes in divorce mediation and she charges a flat fee and she draws up all the paperwork required by the court and can get everything done in an afternoon; she is an attorney but feels that the majority of divorces can be settled without a nasty drawn out fight between lawyers. It is a good alternative for amicable divorces since both parties use the same person; you can save a ton of $$.

[dancelnow]

Can he afford to refinance it in his name only? If so, he does that and buys you out of your share of the equity.

[carowen]

If he wants to keep the house, then he could buy you out. For example, house is worth $400k, you owe $200k on mortgage, he'd owe you half of the $200k in equity, or $100k.

He'd then refinance to only his name and you'd need to sign a quit claim deed to get your name off the deed. Obviously you'd want proof he refinanced to his name alone before relinquishing any claim to the property.

[fluffernutter]

I am a mediator. PM with any questions!