The Financial Pros & Cons of “Bird Nesting”
When divorced parents have an amicable relationship, they may try a “bird nesting” arrangement to let their children stay in the family home. Divorce is often an extremely difficult transition for children. Many divorce mediators and relationship specialists agree that bird nesting is one way to provide struggling children with a foundation of stability as they adjust to their changing circumstances. However, for the sake of the adults, this agreement is usually only temporary.
What Is Bird Nesting?
Bird nesting, or “bird nest parenting for divorce” is a co-parenting arrangement where both parents retain ownership of the family home for the sake of their children. The parents rotate in and out of the house depending on their parenting time schedule. When they aren’t at home, the parents can stay in separate rented properties or other available living places. These arrangements usually only last up to a year because divorced couples want to start establishing their new lives. While beneficial for the children, bird nesting often finds parents trapped in the same cycle of conflict that ended their marriage.
The Financial Pros of Bird Nesting
Many separated couples find that keeping the family home and renting a small apartment to share often reduces post-marital housing costs. By renting only a small place, you may also save money on utilities and other housing expenses. This also gives both spouses time to consider selling the home or waiting until the housing market is better.
The Financial Cons of Bird Nesting
Many former spouses want a clean break after their divorce. Their goal is to establish custody, split the marital assets, and go their separate ways. This isn’t possible if you and your ex both own a home. You may get into fights about who should pay what bills or who needs to cover the repair and maintenance costs. Plus, only one ex can claim the mortgage interest and real estate tax deductions. It’s also difficult to establish child support or spousal support when you are both technically sharing the same life.
Learn About Co-Parenting Options
Many divorcing parents struggle to determine a co-parenting option that best suits their needs and the dynamics of their family. Contact the New Port Richey child custody lawyer at Dale L. Bernstein, Chartered Law Office if you have questions or concerns about your child custody agreement. We can help you establish a fair parenting plan that accounts for your co-parenting choices.
Contact at Dale L. Bernstein, Chartered Law Office at (727) 312-1112 to schedule a consultation.