In this episode of Amicably Yours, Jana, host Jana de Waal, partner at Stokes Law LLP, family lawyer, and mediator, continues her mission to help families move through conflict with clarity, confidence, and compassion. Each conversation this season explores how families can resolve disputes outside the courtroom, using the familiar story of Mrs. Doubtfire as a touchpoint for what can go wrong and what could go much more smoothly with the right support.

Jana welcomes Calgary-based mortgage broker Zach Zaherie to shed light on one of the most common and complicated parts of separation: what to do about the family home. Together, they break down the practical steps individuals should take early in the separation process to preserve options, reduce tension, and set themselves up for financial stability.

Zach explains the importance of seeking professional advice as soon as possible, often even before final decisions are made. He walks listeners through what lenders look for, how refinancing works, and what to expect if one partner wants to keep the home or if both decide to move on. From understanding your borrowing power to planning for a second home purchase, Zach highlights how early information-gathering can protect families from unnecessary stress and uncertainty.

Drawing on the Mrs. Doubtfire example woven throughout the season, Jana and Zach explore how proactive steps, such as seeking clarity on finances, communicating intentions early, and getting expert guidance, could have eased the tension between Daniel and Miranda as they navigated their separation. Their discussion emphasizes that while emotions often run high, practical planning can make the path forward far less overwhelming.

The episode offers a grounded, compassionate look at how legal, financial, and emotional decisions intersect during separation. Jana closes by inviting listeners to share their questions for future episodes, where she will continue exploring supportive, family-focused approaches to resolving conflict amicably.

Connect with Zach Zaherie

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-zaherie/

Website: https://mortgageconnection.ca/staff/zach-zaherie/

Connect with Jana

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jana-de-waal-3893b069/

Website: https://www.stokeslawmediation.ca/