Divorce: why not go for the nest model?
Although the bird nesting model is far less common than the traditional residence or alternating model, it has become increasingly attractive in recent years for child custody arrangements following a separation. Whether this model is suitable for separated couples depends on their individual and financial circumstances. It is therefore advisable for parents who are separating or divorcing to seek advice from a real estate agent.
What does the nest model mean for children and parents?
In this model, the children continue to live in their familiar surroundings despite the end of their parents' relationship. This reduces the negative consequences of divorce for the children and makes it easier to cope with the break-up of the family. "Nest" children are also said to develop better personalities than other children of separated parents. Qualities such as respect, resilience, and tolerance are promoted.
Parents can live their own lives without the children when it is the other parent's turn to look after them in the "nest."
Good for the children, but not always for the ex-partners
Bird nesting means ending the relationship without drawing a clear line. Parents who choose this model are effectively separated, but still have to make decisions together that affect the shared property. After all, both parents still live in the children's "nest" to some extent.
This leads to arguments and disagreements, especially when it comes to financial issues. Who pays the electricity bill? Who should pay the TV license fees? Who pays for repairs and new furnishings? If there is also a mortgage or loan to pay off, the question arises as to who contributes how much to the repayment.
In addition, each parent has to find a new home. And the costs of running two households and maintaining both properties also have to be covered. In times of rising rents and property prices, as well as living costs, this can often be a heavy burden on your own finances. Especially if you are not a low-income earner. And, of course, the children's needs must not be forgotten.
Sell or move to a new home? - Advice from a professional
In cases where it is difficult or impossible to keep the property, the nest model is generally better for the children, but virtually impossible to implement. It is therefore better to work with a real estate agent to find the best solution for the separation property on an individual basis. Of course, the main goal is always to resolve the situation for the children as best as possible.
Do you need help dealing with your divorce property? Then get in touch with us!
Not found what you're looking for? You can find more information here:
- spiegel.de: Alternating custody and nesting
- equitablemediation: nesting divorce
- wireltern.ch: Nesting model – alternating custody model – residence model
- nestmodell.info
Notes
For reasons of readability, the generic masculine form is used in this text. Female and other gender identities are expressly included where necessary for the meaning of the text.
Legal notice: This article does not constitute tax or legal advice in individual cases. Please consult a lawyer and/or tax advisor to clarify the facts of your specific case.
Photo: © jrp_studio/depositphotos.com
