Some 11 per cent of couples who divorce after the age of 50 use money from their property to fund it.
Research from Legal & General found property wealth was the most important consideration for couples at the point of divorce.
In the UK, people over the age of 55 hold the majority of housing wealth, totalling more than £3.5tn in property assets alone.
According to the research, 18 per cent of those over 50 will buy their partner out using savings, with one in 20 couples turning to equity release.
It also found only 8 per cent of divorcing couples take financial advice about their separation.
Lorna Shah, managing director at Legal & General Retail Retirement said: “For many couples over 50, their home holds huge sentimental value, as well as being one of the most significant financial assets they jointly own.
“It’s therefore not surprising that property is the priority during discussions for over half of divorcing couples.
“What is surprising is that only 8 per cent take financial advice at such a complicated and emotionally charged point in their lives.
“This is particularly important for couples aged over 50 as the decisions made can have significant consequences on their retirement plans.”
alina.khan@ft.com
