Why We Sold Our Home To Live In An RV

Have you ever felt the pull to break free from the ordinary and embrace a life of adventure? That’s the journey we found ourselves on—a journey that led us to sell our home and move into an RV full-time. It wasn’t an easy decision, nor was it a sudden one. It was two years of thinking, wondering, dreaming, and, at times, doubting.

In the fall of 2021, everything changed. The idea of RV living felt less like a far-off dream and more like a calling. With every conversation, every pro/con list, and every quiet moment of reflection, it just made sense. We were ready. Or, at least, we thought we were.

Hi, we’re the McCartys, and this is the story of why we sold our home to live full-time in an RV. It wasn’t one reason; it was six. These reasons helped us take the leap, and they might inspire you to consider if the RV lifestyle is right for you.

“The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt

1. Time with Our Kids: Making Memories That Matter

If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that time is fleeting. When we decided to sell our home, our oldest son was a sophomore in high school. We knew we had only a few more years before he would graduate and venture into the world. Those years felt too precious to spend in the daily grind, waving goodbye as he headed off to school and work, only to squeeze in family time between schedules.

We wanted to slow down. To take road trips where we could see the world together, to sit around a campfire without worrying about the clock, and to wake up in places that felt magical. These last few years with him at home are a gift, and RV living has given us the chance to make every moment count.

Reflection Question for You: What memories would you make if you had more time together as a family?

2. Helping Family: Being Where We’re Needed Most

Family has always been a priority for us, and when my husband’s father began finding it harder to manage his property, we knew we wanted to help. Selling our home and moving our fifth wheel onto his land meant we could pitch in every day, whether it was tackling yard work, fixing things around the property, or simply being there to share a meal.

This lifestyle has allowed us to give back in ways we couldn’t before. Living close to family has brought us closer emotionally, and it’s a reminder that sometimes, life is less about where you are and more about who you’re with.

3. Downsizing: Letting Go to Gain More

Let’s talk about stuff. For years, it felt like we were drowning in it—closets full of clothes, drawers packed with knickknacks, and rooms filled with things we didn’t even use. Downsizing to an RV forced us to confront it all. Every item became a question: “Do we need this? Does it bring us joy? Will it fit in the RV?”

Letting go was hard at first, but as we purged, we felt lighter. Now, with fewer belongings, we spend less time cleaning and organizing and more time doing what we love. Downsizing has been a journey, but it’s taught us that life isn’t about the things you own; it’s about the memories you make.

Tip: Start small. Pick one closet or one room and begin letting go. It’s liberating, we promise.

4. Living with More Purpose

Before RV life, our days felt like a blur. Work, bills, errands, repeat. It was a routine that left little room for the things that mattered most to us—family, adventure, and simply enjoying life. We realized we weren’t truly living; we were just getting by.

By selling our home and embracing full-time RV living, we found a renewed sense of purpose. Every day feels intentional. Whether it’s hiking a trail, exploring a new town, or watching the sunset from a quiet campsite, we’re living the life we used to dream about.

Reflection Question for You: What would living with more purpose look like for you?

5. Financial Freedom: Living More with Less

Finances were another big factor in our decision. While we were doing okay, the cost of living as a family of five meant we often said no to things we wanted to do. RV life offered a chance to cut costs, reduce debt, and focus on what really mattered.

Our goal was simple: achieve financial freedom. By downsizing, simplifying, and adopting a more minimal lifestyle, we’ve been able to work fewer hours, save more money, and spend more time together. The payoff? More adventures, less stress, and a whole lot of peace of mind.

6. Finding Our Forever Home

We loved our house, but we knew it wasn’t our forever home. In fact, we weren’t even sure if Washington State was where we wanted to settle long-term. Selling our home and hitting the road has given us the freedom to explore—to wake up in new places, meet new people, and discover what feels like home.

For now, our home base remains in Washington, but the open road is calling. Maybe one day we’ll find that perfect spot. Or maybe, home isn’t a place at all—it’s the life we’re building together, wherever we are.

Reflection Question for You: If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

What About You?

Are you considering making the leap into full-time RV living? Or maybe you’re already on the road and have your own reasons for choosing this lifestyle. We’d love to hear from you.

• What inspired your journey?

• What’s been the biggest challenge for you?

• What’s holding you back if you haven’t started yet?

Final Thoughts

Selling our home and moving into an RV wasn’t an easy decision, but it was the right one for us. It’s a life filled with adventure, purpose, and connection—a life that’s shown us what truly matters.

If this post resonates with you, we’d love to connect!

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Here’s to embracing the journey, wherever it takes you. Happy trails, friends!