Match the size of the fix to the size and duration of the problem: a temporary squeeze calls for a temporary fix, and a permanent income loss calls for a permanent one. If the squeeze is temporary (a job change, a short income gap, a one-time expense), think hard before selling. Getting out of a home is expensive. Transaction costs run in the ballpark of 6% of the sale price, roughly $30,000 on a $500,000 home, and that can easily swallow the short-term relief of a lower housing payment. Better temporary moves: - Call your servicer directly and ask about a loan modification, forbearance, or repayment plan. Servicers would generally rather work with you than watch the loan go bad. - Bridge a short gap with a second job or by renting out a room. If the income loss is permanent, a permanent solution is appropriate, and selling or moving in with family may genuinely be the right call. Even then, do the actual math first. Compare what you would realistically pay in rent (or contribute living with family) against your current mortgage payment. House poor sometimes feels worse than it pencils out, and renting is cheaper less often than people assume once you price it.