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The average value of household effects in the event of divorce

At ZSM Woningontruiming we see every day how difficult it can be to divide household effects after a divorce. We understand that this is an emotional time, and we want to help you. In this guide we take you step by step through the process of dividing household effects. We explain how to determine the value and give practical tips for a smooth handling of the division of household effects.

What is included in the household contents in the event of a divorce?

Let’s first look at what exactly is part of the contents. Imagine walking through your house and everything you see and can pick up is basically part of the contents. But there are exceptions.

The contents usually include:

  • Furniture (think of that comfy couch you love so much)
  • Electronics (the TV where you watched movies together)
  • Household appliances (the washing machine that faithfully washed your clothes)
  • Crockery and cutlery (the plates you ate from together)
  • Decorative items (the paintings on the wall)
  • Books and Media (Your Shared Library)
  • Garden furniture and tools (the lawn mower you took turns using)
  • Clothes and shoes (your personal wardrobe)
  • Jewelry (unless they are heirlooms or personal gifts)

But not everything falls under the common household effects. Think of:

  • Grandma's necklace that you inherited
  • The special pen you got for your birthday
  • Your business laptop
  • Items that are strongly connected to one person (we call these 'associated goods')

Determining the average value of household contents

Now that you know what all belongs to the contents, the next step is to determine the value. This may sound like a mountain of work, but we will help you through it.

You have several options:

  1. Have a professional appraise the stuff (all the stuff). Useful, but it does cost something.
  2. Use online tools. Fast and cheap, but less accurate.
  3. Do it yourself. Takes time, but you have the most control.

What should you pay attention to when valuing?

  • How old are the items and what condition are they in?
  • What was the original price?
  • What would you get for it now if you were to sell it?
  • Does the item have special meaning to you? (Difficult to express in money, but important)

Een leuk weetje: “De gemiddelde Nederlander heeft een inboedel ter waarde van zo’n €30.000 tot €50.000,” vertelde een broker ons onlangs. “Maar,” voegde hij eraan toe, “dat hangt natuurlijk af van hoe lang je getrouwd was en hoe je leefde.”

Step-by-step plan for dividing the household effects

Step 1: Make a household inventory

First, let's take stock. Grab a notebook (or use an app on your phone) and walk through the house. Write down everything you come across. Don't forget the attic, basement and garage! Are you attached to something? Maybe you can talk about it? Think of donating attached goods, for example. 

Some tips:

  • Take pictures of valuables
  • For each item, write down what you think it is worth
  • Be as complete as possible. Even those old tennis rackets in the shed count!

Step 2: Decide what you both want

Now comes the tricky part: choosing what to keep. This can be emotional. Take your time and be honest with each other.

Consider the following:

  • What do you really need in your new situation?
  • Which items have special meaning to you?
  • Could you perhaps share or take turns using certain items?

Step 3: Distributing the items

Now you're going to actually divide things up. There are several ways to approach this:

  1. Take turns choosing. Just like choosing teams at school.
  2. Points system. Give each item points and distribute accordingly.
  3. Auction. Bid on items with an imaginary budget.

Each method has its pros and cons. Choose what suits you.

MethodAdvantagesCons
Take turns choosingSimple and fastCan feel unfair with items of unequal value
Points systemTake personal appreciation into accountTakes more time
AuctionMarket forcesCan become competitive

Legal aspects of the division of household effects

The way in which you were married or cohabited partly determines how you should divide the household effects.

  • Married in community of property? Then everything is yours together and you are both entitled to half.
  • Prenuptial agreement? Check what the contract says about the division of property.
  • Registered partnership? The rules are similar to those of a marriage, depending on what you have agreed.

A lawyer told us: “Record the division in a divorce agreement. This way you avoid hassle later and the agreements are in black and white.”

Dealing with emotional value

Some things are worth more than money. That old kitchen table where you ate so often with friends, or the photo albums from vacations. How do you deal with them?

Some ideas:

  • Talk about it. Tell each other why something is important to you.
  • Take pictures of things you can't keep.
  • Find creative solutions. Maybe you can share that collection of LPs?

Practical tips for a smooth division of household effects

  1. Start early. Rome wasn’t built in a day.
  2. Talk to each other. Clear communication prevents misunderstandings.
  3. Be flexible. Sometimes you have to compromise.
  4. Write everything down. A good memory is nice, but paper is more patient.
  5. If things get tough, get help. A mediator can do wonders.

Frequently asked questions about the division of household effects in the event of divorce

How much is the average household contents worth?

It varies greatly, but expect to pay around €30,000 to €50,000.

Do I really need to hire an appraiser?

Not always, but in the case of expensive items or disagreements it is smart.

What about heirlooms?

These usually fall outside the joint estate.

What if we can't figure it out?

Try mediation. If that doesn't work, a judge can decide.

Does emotional value also count?

Absolutely! Discuss this with each other, even if it is difficult to express in money.

Finally

A divorce is never easy and dividing the household effects can be extra stressful. But with good preparation and open communication, you will get through it. Remember: it is not about who gets the most stuff, but that you can both move on with your lives.

ZSM Woningontruiming is always ready for you

Do you have any questions after reading this guide? Or would you like help clearing a home after a divorce? Please do not hesitate to contact us. At ZSM House clearance we are ready to help you with practical solutions in this difficult time. Together we make the best of it!