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I think it would be better to stay in the house. In 2013, the maximum amount of the institutionalized spouse’s income that can be protected for the community spouse is $2,898 a month. There will be a lien on the house for half the house's net value. But that is a lien. In other words it will not be taken until the house is sold.
Now if you own a house and sell it, then move to a rental. Half of the equity from the house would go to help pay for the spouse's care in a nursing home.
Your best bet is to make an appointment with an Elder Law Attorney as they specialize in things like this, and help you go through the maze of signing up for Medicaid, if needed in the future.