In depressed market conditions, many companies downsize or fold. They scramble for ways to cut costs and increase profit. Some industries are hit harder than others but almost every employer tightens the belt, which means many employees are laid off or let go. When one spouse loses a job, especially in bad economic times, sometimes the only choice for that unemployed person is to take a job out of town.

Take me, for example. If my husband lost his job, he would most likely not find another job in Sacramento without changing professions, and the latter is not an option. He is an experienced and dedicated journalist in a troubled industry. To follow his career, he would probably be forced to move to another town. My career would keep me in Sacramento because this is where my real estate business and clients are located.

Some married couples, however, have always lived apart. It's not unusual these days to meet your prospective partner online. Many dating couples live in different cities and own separate homes. After marriage, it is not always economically feasible for every couple to live together. So, some spouses commute.

Reasons Why Married Couples May Live in Separate Houses

Katherine Hepburn once said, "I often wonder whether men and women really suit each other. Perhaps they should live next door and just visit now and then." And that's what she did. Hepburn and Tracy (although not married) maintained separate houses.

Today's married couples have different reasons, no doubt. Here are a few:

• The market has softened and homes are not selling.
• One spouse enjoys an established business in a city where the other is unemployable.
• Each may prefer a separate lifestyle yet remain committed to the relationship.
• Children could be enrolled in a great school district and parents may prefer not to uproot them.
• Nearby family members, perhaps aging grandparents, may require assistance and cannot move away.
• Medical conditions could make it necessary to remain close to a particular doctor or hospital facility.
• A university or college education might be offered at an out-of-area institution.

How to Cope With a Long-Distance Marriage

Trisha moved from Chicago to attend school in southern California, expecting that her husband, David, would join her. David left their home vacant in Chicago and moved to Los Angeles, but after six months, he could not find a suitable job. He was extremely unhappy. David could not adjust to the LA lifestyle and moved back to Chicago. Today he talks to Trisha almost daily by phone or email.

Craig's wife moved to Scotland to pursue an employment opportunity, leaving Craig behind to sell the house. Due to the falling market, Craig's home was upside down and he couldn't sell it. His choices were to pursue a short sale or wait for a market turnaround. Now, he travels to Scotland several times a year to visit his wife and has since taken his home off the market.

Michael owns a small business in Sacramento with an established clientele. He and his partner bought a condo several years ago, but today, Michael lives there alone. His partner was offered a job with a great salary and benefits in Houston. They now commute. Fortunately, Michael's brother works for an airline and passes along discounted tickets to the couple.

Here are tips for commuting spouses:

• Keep lines of communication open -- talk by phone, through email, Tweet, text or IM, and write letters.
• Hold to the belief that you both remain committed to the relationship.
• Place faith and trust in your partner.
• Take turns visiting each other and plan activities you both enjoy together.
• Share your concerns, expectations and make plans for the future.

_{At the time of writing, Elizabeth Weintraub, DRE # 00697006, is a Broker-Associate at Lyon Real Estate in Sacramento, California.}