In this powerful episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell sits down with Amy Slate, also known as the Breakup Broker—a real estate agent who specializes in guiding women through the emotional and logistical challenges of selling a home during divorce. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the divorce journey, Amy offers compassionate, practical advice for making smart real estate decisions during one of life’s most stressful transitions.

Amy and Olivia discuss why choosing the right realtor is crucial when emotions are high and timelines are tight. From helping clients get on the same page to navigating the nitty-gritty of paperwork and negotiations, Amy explains how having professional support makes a huge difference in the outcome—both financially and emotionally. She shares tips on preparing a home for sale, creating realistic expectations, and the importance of slowing down and taking things one step at a time.

Whether you’re in the thick of your divorce or just beginning to consider what comes next, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and informed. Amy’s blend of empathy and expertise is a must-hear for anyone facing the tough decision of selling a shared home. Grab a cup of coffee and tune in—you’re not alone, and there’s a clear path forward.

Learn more about Amy Slate here: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/the-breakup-broker

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Episode Transcript: Selling the Martial Home with Amy Slate, The Breakup Broker

Olivia Howell:

Let’s jump in. Welcome back to Divorce Happens, the podcast where we support you before, during, and after divorce—with education, inspiration, and a little bit of laughter. Because divorce happens… and then you start fresh.

Today, I’m so excited to introduce one of our Fresh Starts experts with quite possibly the best business name ever: Amy Slate, also known as The Breakup Broker. Amy, can you tell us what you do?

Amy Slate:

Sure! I’m a real estate agent licensed in both Massachusetts and Florida. I work with all kinds of clients, but my focus is helping women who are going through divorce, separation, or breakups. I guide them through the complexities of selling a home during this major life transition.

Olivia Howell:

I love that so much. Every day I meet with people going through divorce, and two questions come up again and again: custody and what to do with the marital home. Our mission at Fresh Starts is to reduce anxiety where we can—and real estate is a huge part of that.

So, Amy, what’s the process? If someone owns a home with their soon-to-be ex, how do they decide to sell, choose a realtor, and actually go through with the sale?

Amy Slate:

Great question. First, take a step back and look at your situation holistically—from financial, emotional, and logistical perspectives. These all impact the decision to sell. Having someone like me to talk things through can really reduce anxiety. Divorce is overwhelming, and adding a home sale on top of it is a lot. That’s why it’s crucial to find a real estate expert who understands divorce and can walk you through the options.

Olivia Howell:

Totally. And it’s not like there’s one central place to find all the answers—everything is so case-specific, from mortgage terms to who’s on the deed. Let’s say a couple is divorcing and needs a realtor. Do both parties have to agree on who to hire?

Amy Slate:

It depends. If they’re amicable, sure, they can agree on a realtor. If not, lawyers or even a judge might get involved to appoint someone. Ideally, one person brings a realtor into the conversation, and everyone meets to ensure they’re on the same page. It’s important that both parties feel included and informed. This is an emotional and complex process—without the divorce. Add divorce, and it’s even more layered.

Olivia Howell:

Which is why having someone neutral, like you, is so valuable. Once you’re hired, what should someone expect? What are the first steps?

Amy Slate:

I typically visit the home and, if possible, meet with both spouses. If one person isn’t comfortable being present, I make sure everything is well-documented and shared equally. Everyone needs to feel informed and heard.

Then we do a room-by-room walkthrough to determine what improvements could help the home sell faster and for more money. I create a categorized list: non-negotiables (like patching holes or cleaning up the yard), nice-to-haves (like staging), and optional items. I also bring in my network—cleaners, stagers, handypeople—so the clients aren’t overwhelmed trying to do everything themselves.

Olivia Howell:

Yes, we had to repaint our whole house in neutral colors when we sold. And that support system makes such a difference. But a lot of women tell me they consider selling without a realtor to “save money.” What do you say to that?

Amy Slate:

It’s common. But the data shows that sellers using a realtor usually net more money, even after commissions. Realtors market better, negotiate stronger deals, and make the home look its best. Also—do you really want to manage open houses, contracts, negotiations, and legal details on your own? Especially while navigating a divorce?

Olivia Howell:

Exactly. It’s more than just a home sale—it’s tied to the legal, financial, and emotional threads of the divorce. So where do you work, and how do you work with clients?

Amy Slate:

I’m based in Boston and licensed in both Massachusetts and Florida. I mostly work in Greater Boston but do travel to Florida as needed. I pride myself on being a good listener, someone who really sees the emotional undercurrents while handling the logistics.

There’s a study that shows women going through divorce experience cognitive decline—they’re overwhelmed, distracted, and mentally exhausted. I understand that, and I do everything I can to take the real estate burden off their plate.

Olivia Howell:

I’m sure you walk into a room and immediately sense the emotional dynamics.

Amy Slate:

It’s a blessing and a curse—I can be in a restaurant and pick up on everyone’s vibes! But that’s also why I do this work. Divorce is emotional, even for those who think they’re “fine.” I want to help make the process easier and more manageable.

Olivia Howell:

That’s exactly why we created Fresh Starts. Divorce support requires a team—realtors, attorneys, mortgage pros, estate planners—you need them all. So, if someone is considering divorce but hasn’t said anything yet, can they talk to a realtor confidentially?

Amy Slate:

Absolutely. As a licensed realtor, I follow a code of ethics and confidentiality. You can have a private conversation just to explore your options. And because I work in the divorce space, I also have a vetted network. For example, I might suggest a forensic accountant if needed.

Olivia Howell:

I love that. Final question: What words of wisdom do you have for someone listening who is in the thick of it?

Amy Slate:

Take it one step at a time. I’m a list-maker, but in my own divorce, the lists just overwhelmed me. So now I tell people—start small. Build your team. You cannot and should not do it alone. Whether it’s professionals or trusted friends, lean on others. That’s what they’re there for.

Olivia Howell:

That’s our favorite advice too. Thank you, Amy, for being part of the Fresh Starts community and supporting women through these major life transitions. If you want to connect with Amy, visit FreshStartsRegistry.com or her website, The Breakup Broker. All her info is linked in the show notes.