When the final whistle blows on a marriage, dividing assets becomes an unwelcome yet necessary chore. For sports enthusiasts, figuring out who gets to keep certain cherished collectibles can feel impossible.
Despite this fear, it is still possible to navigate splitting up sports memorabilia without the involvement of a judge if you keep the following in mind.
Establish ground rules
Sit down with your ex to honestly discuss the items in question. Create ground rules for the division process, considering each piece’s sentimental and monetary value. Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach, as each jersey, glove and signed trading card may hold different emotional significance for both individuals.
Play fair
Take a complete inventory of the collection together so that both parties have a clear overview of what is at stake. Valuation comes next. Industry analysts expect the sports memorabilia market to grow to $227.2 billion globally by 2032, so the worth of your collection could be significant. Calculate dollar amounts by doing independent research or using professional appraisers.
Strike a deal
Be flexible when it comes to deciding who keeps what. Compromises help avoid conflicts and speed up the process. Avoid obsessing over who gets the most valuable items. Instead, concentrate on finding a middle ground that respects the worth each person puts on particular treasures.
Document the agreement
Once there is an accord, get it in writing. Having a tangible record that outlines everything should prevent future disputes or misunderstandings. A clear, agreed-upon contract provides peace of mind to both sides as they move forward separately.
Divorcing remains a challenging game, even under the best of circumstances. Carefully approach what to do with beloved sports memorabilia so that the matter does not lead to further emotional strain.