Benefit advice-mortgage, renting?

This might not be what you want to do, but have you considered renting out a room or two? Do you have a basement that you could possible rent out? The rent would be considered income.... so I don't think your plan would work to your favor. Also... the property taxes would increase dramatically for you when you do not live in your house.... and you would need insurance for the rental too.... why don't you take in a few children to watch along with your own?? That would bring in some income to assist you. There are things that you can do that might make it the less than ideal situation ( like renting out a room) but you could stay in your home, and when your husband does get a job, you can change back to living the way you are now.... a single family in your home.