Vermont is an equitable distribution state, meaning that the marital estate is divided equitably, not necessarily equally. Title to the property, whether in the names of the husband, the wife, both parties, or a nominee, shall be immaterial, except where equitable distribution can be made without disturbing separate property. In making a property settlement, the court may consider all relevant factors, including but not limited to: the length of the marriage, the contribution by one spouse to the education, training, or increased earning power of the other, the desirability of awarding the family home or the right to live there for reasonable periods to the spouse having custody of the children, the party through whom the property was acquired, and the respective merits of the parties.