What to Do with Your Home During Senior Mission
Your complete guide to the rent, sell, keep, or store decision. We'll help you choose the best option for your mission service.
Good News: Mission Housing is Provided
As of 2024, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provides and pays for all senior missionary housing, including rent, utilities, and furnishings. Your primary decision is what to do with your current home and belongings while you serve.
Your Four Main Options
Each path has unique benefits. Choose based on your financial needs, mission length, and post-mission plans.
Rent Your Home
Generate income to fund your mission
Key Benefits:
- Rental income offsets 40-80% of mission costs
- Professional property management handles everything
- Your home maintains value and equity
- Return to your home after mission
- Tenants screened and vetted by experts
Best For:
Couples with significant equity, desirable rental market location, or need for monthly income
Keep & Maintain Your Home
Leave it vacant with professional oversight
Key Benefits:
- No tenant concerns or rental complications
- Regular inspections and maintenance
- Utilities and systems monitored
- Yard care and exterior maintenance
- Peace of mind with trusted stewardship
Best For:
Couples who can afford monthly carrying costs, have concerned about tenants, or serving short-term missions (6-12 months)
Sell Your Home
Simplify completely and fund your mission
Key Benefits:
- Immediate cash to fund entire mission
- Zero ongoing property responsibilities
- No property taxes, insurance, or maintenance
- Complete freedom and simplicity
- Downsize for post-mission lifestyle
Best For:
Couples planning to relocate after mission, downsizing permanently, or prefer zero property concerns
Store Everything
Secure storage for all belongings
Key Benefits:
- Climate-controlled storage facilities
- Missionary-discount partnerships
- Flexible storage unit sizes
- Short-term or long-term options
- Insurance coverage available
Best For:
Couples selling or renting who need furniture storage, or those downsizing from large homes
Key Decision Factors
Consider these important factors when deciding what to do with your home.
Mission Length
6-12 months: Consider keeping home vacant or short-term rental. 18-23 months: Rental income becomes more valuable and cost-effective.
Home Equity
High equity and mortgage-free? Rental income is nearly pure profit. Still paying mortgage? Rental income may cover payments plus mission costs.
Local Market
Strong rental demand in your area means higher income and faster tenant placement. Weak market might favor selling or keeping vacant.
Post-Mission Plans
Returning to same home? Rent it. Relocating or uncertain? Selling provides maximum flexibility and funding.
Financial Need
Need monthly mission income? Rent your home. Have savings to cover mission? Keep it vacant for simplicity.
Property Condition
Move-in ready? Perfect for rental. Needs major repairs? Consider our home improvement grants before renting or selling.
Side-by-Side Comparison
See how each option compares across key factors.
| Factor | Rent It | Keep Vacant | Sell It | Store All |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Income | $1,200 - $2,500 average | $0 | One-time: $200k - $500k+ | $0 |
| Monthly Costs | $150 - $350 (management, vacancy reserve) | $300 - $800 (taxes, insurance, utilities) | $0 after sale | $100 - $300 (storage unit) |
| Effort Required | Minimal (we handle everything) | Minimal (we handle maintenance) | Moderate (preparation, closing) | Low (pack and move once) |
| Risk Level | Low (insured, screened tenants) | Medium (vacant home risks) | Very Low | Very Low |
How Mission Home Project Helps
Whichever path you choose, we provide comprehensive support to ensure your home and belongings are cared for perfectly.
Property Management
Professional tenant screening, rent collection, maintenance coordination, and regular property inspections. Your rental generates income worry-free.
Home Stewardship
For vacant homes: regular visits, yard maintenance, utility monitoring, and emergency response. Your home stays secure and maintained.
Financial Planning
Calculate rental income potential, storage costs, and tax implications. Make informed decisions with complete financial clarity.
Ready to Decide What's Best for Your Home?
Schedule a free consultation to discuss your specific situation and get personalized recommendations.