As said Very personal decision and no "one fit" answer.
We Traveled for a year and kept our house but the hassles, repairs and worries weren't worth it! The value had skyrocketed the last few years,and the Value compared to almost anywhere we would settle was in some cases double. Withdrawing all that gain was a tax free gain. If you turn it into a rental there are possible tax consequences.
A year and a half ago we spent two months getting rid of, transferring to our kids what they wanted and sold our House. Paid off everybody and stashed the rest in a secure investment (our exit). I/We sleep very well now
No more taxes, insurance, upkeep etc etc on a place , a Tri Level large 4 bedroom home we came to realize we didn't want to deal with in our latter " Infirm" years and would sell anyway to buy a condo or small property.
The disadvantage if you have sold is you have no immediate place to return.You definitely cut ties with your church our other organizations etc that may be important to you. Was this one of you's dream home That selling wont set well? You run a risk that real estate will skyrocket and your safe investments will not buy a "equivalent" house if that is what you think you'll return to.
Good luck, and whatever you decide, make it together and review it frequently.
