Michelle Coulier and Miguel Ruiz-Santos; Real Estate and Lending During Divorce

In this episode of the Queer Divorce Club, we're diving into the intricacies of buying and selling a home while navigating the divorce process. Whether you're looking to purchase a new home or refinance the one you owned with your former spouse, this episode is packed with valuable insights and expert advice to help you make informed decisions.

The episode features Michelle Coulier and Miguel Ruiz-Santos who experts in real estate and lending specifically tailored to the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community. Together, we'll explore the unique challenges and considerations that arise when dealing with property during a divorce, providing you with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate this complex process.

From understanding the legal aspects to ensuring financial stability, we'll cover it all. You'll learn about strategies for dividing property equitably, negotiating with your ex-spouse, and working with lenders who are sensitive to the unique needs of queer individuals. We'll also discuss the emotional aspects of this journey and provide tips for maintaining your well-being throughout the process.

Whether you're embarking on a new chapter in homeownership or seeking to redefine your living arrangements, this episode of the Queer Divorce Club podcast is a must-listen. Join us as we empower you with the information and support you need to make confident decisions and create a secure future.

Michelle Coulier

Michelle was born and raised in West Michigan and knows the area like the back of her hand. She has been a homeowner since the age of 23 and hopes to help others find the joy in homeownership she has found!

Michelle has had a passion for homes as far back as she can remember, pointing at homes from the backseat of her dad’s car on Sunday drives, asking him how much he would pay to own them. She worked in the medical field for over 12 years before transitioning to a natural career in real estate. Michelle says that her experience in these two fields, different as they may seem, combine to make her a caring, thoughtful agent who always keeps her clients’ best interest top of mind as they make the big and sometimes nerve-wracking decisions involved in buying and selling their homes. Her compassion and consideration are on full display when she works with any client.

In her free time, she enjoys woodworking, projects around her home, and doing work for her community. (She currently volunteers with Habitat for Humanity’s Carpenters’ Club and Women Build programs).  In addition to that, she is working on getting her builder’s license in hopes that it will make her an even better Realtor® for her future clients!

Michelle and her wife, Sarah, have 2 rescue pit bulls and are advocates for the breed and pet rescue in general.  She is also a drummer, ice cream enthusiast, and is a liiiiiiittle obsessed with magic shows.

Miguel Ruiz-Santos

Raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and now living in Belmont, Michigan. Miguel Ruiz-Santos is a Bilingual Mortgage Loan Originator that focuses on educating his clients about the importance of being a homeowner. As a homeowner himself, he understands the rollercoaster of emotions you experience during the process but with his guidance and passion he hopes to alleviate all those emotions and turn them into excitement! 

With a combined 10 years of Finance and Mortgage experience, Miguel will always go the extra mile to ensure he finds you the solution you need. Why mortgages? “I’ve always been a “numbers guy” and I love helping people. Since I was a kid, I always knew I would be in the financial industry. I’m here today and ready to use my skills and passion to help you achieve the dream of homeownership.

When Miguel isn’t talking mortgages his attending music festivals, spending time with family and love ones, volunteering in his community and traveling.