Episode 38: Mortgage Assumptions and Home Ownership During Divorce with Tami Wollensak, CDLP

Host: Melissa Wheeler Farag, Family Law Mediator and Recovering Divorce Litigator Guest: Tami Wollensak, Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP) and VP at New American Funding

Navigating real estate during divorce doesn’t have to add unnecessary stress to an already emotional time. In this insightful episode, Melissa sits down for a second conversation with Tami Wollensak, a nationally licensed mortgage loan originator and Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP®). Tami shares her expertise on what divorcing homeowners need to know about mortgage assumptions, the real cost of keeping the marital home, and how to make fully informed, financially sound decisions about real estate during divorce.

If you're considering keeping your house after divorce—or you're curious about your mortgage options—this is essential listening.

• The emotional vs. financial reality of keeping the marital home

• Understanding mortgage assumptions: What they are, how they work, and how divorce impacts eligibility

• The importance of budgeting for home maintenance and unexpected expenses post-divorce

• How spousal support and child support affect mortgage qualifications

• Why "house poor" isn't a vibe: balancing financial stability and emotional needs

• Common pitfalls with loan assumptions, home equity lines, and timing considerations

• The case for renting after divorce—and why it can be a financially wise, low-stress choice

Tami Wollensak, CDLP is a Divorce Mortgage Specialist and VP with New American Funding. With over 30 years in the mortgage industry, Tami helps divorcing individuals nationwide find smarter, more stable home equity solutions. Her mission is to educate, empower, and remove anxiety from the mortgage process—offering peace of mind and a clear path forward during divorce.

• Connect with Tami:

  • Website: TakeOrLeaveTheHouse.com

  • Resources: EmpoweredUncoupling.com

  • Instagram: @tamiwollensakcdlp

• Episode 17: Tami’s first appearance on High Vibe Divorce: "Should I Take or Leave the Marital Residence?"

• TakeOrLeaveTheHouse.com for mortgage planning tools

• EmpoweredUncoupling.com for real estate and divorce education

• Website: HighVibeMediation.com

• Instagram:

  • Mediation: @highvibemediation

  • Podcast: @highvibedivorce

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review! And don't forget to share with a friend who could use some support navigating divorce.

🌟 Until next time, keep the vibes high and the conflict low.