The division of assets during a divorce follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning that marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. When determining who gets the house in a divorce, several factors are considered by the court to ensure a fair and just outcome. Firstly, the court examines whether the house is classified as marital property or separate property. Marital property generally includes assets acquired during the marriage, while separate property typically encompasses assets acquired before the marriage or through inheritance or gift to one spouse.