There are many different types of custody arrangements and property division settlements that couples can negotiate. Typically, parents share custody by having the children travel back and forth between their homes. They either agree for one parent to retain the marital home or negotiate arrangements to sell the property.
However, some families require more unique arrangements. Birdnesting involves retaining joint ownership of the marital home and allowing the children to stay in the house full-time. The parents come and go based on when they have parenting time scheduled.
What benefits does a birdnesting custody arrangement potentially offer for separating parents?
Simplifying housing matters
A birdnesting arrangement can be beneficial for children because it keeps their lives stable. They can maintain connections to the same people and places. The residences maintained by the parents determine where the children can attend school in many cases. For some families, finding another home for sale or rental properties in the same school district could be prohibitively difficult. Having the children switch schools and adjust to two new houses can compound the trauma of their parents separating or divorcing.
A birdnesting arrangement ensures that the children stay in the same school district and allows the parents an opportunity to make their own outside housing arrangements. They can stay with family or live with roommates. They do not have to worry about acquiring a property that accommodates their children.
Providing time to optimize home sales
Couples may have to take a loss if they sell their house with little advance notice due to a divorce or separation. They don’t necessarily get to pick when they list the property. Factors ranging from market fluctuations to the season can affect the profits generated by the transaction. Couples may also have to accept lower offers because they cannot complete major renovation or repair projects.
Keeping the home until the children finish school can give the parents an opportunity to finish projects. They can also be strategic about when they list the property and can take the time to stage it once it has fewer occupants.
Unique arrangements can be financially beneficial for the adults in a family and emotionally beneficial for children who are subject to shared custody. Considering every option before committing to an approach is a healthy approach to navigating shared parental responsibilities.
