A Beginner’s Guide to House Sitting

hello future house sitter!

|

hello future house sitter! |

I first discovered the concept of house sitting on TikTok in the summer of 2022 from a user who has since deleted their account. The creator was sharing their experience as a digital nomad while promoting a platform they used to find free places to stay around the world called TrustedHousesitters. So I took a chance and downloaded the app. Since then, I have completed 7 housesits and saved over $11,000 on accommodations.

Here’s a quick recap of my experiences!

1. Los Angeles, California
   Duration: 2 days
   Cared for: Labradoodle

2. Le Bugue, France
   Duration: 2 months
   Cared for: 3 homes and a large garden

3. Fès, Morocco
   Duration: 3 months
   Cared for: 3 cats in a 300 year old house. Dreamy!

4. Tokyo, Japan
   Duration: 2 weeks
   Cared for: white Maltese named Junior

5. Kobe, Japan
   Duration: 1 week
   Cared for: black Labrador named Sophronie

6. Seogwipo, South Korea
   Duration: 1 week
   Cared for: 2 cats, Yuki and Oscar

7. Bangkok, Thailand
   Duration: 2 months
   Cared for: apartment with a balcony that needed repainting.

   P.S. This is where I was featured in a Reuters article about the rise of house sitting!

House sitting is a fantastic way to travel and experience new places while enjoying the comforts of a home. Think Airbnb but free! Whether you're looking to save money on accommodation or immerse yourself in local communities, house sitting offers a unique opportunity.

Here's a beginner's guide to help you get started!

• Step 1 | Register With House Sitting Platforms.

  Begin by signing up with reputable house sitting platforms such as TrustedHousesitters, Nomador, MindMyHouse, or HouseCarers.
  
  These platforms connect homeowners with reliable house sitters.
  
  Create a profile highlighting your skills, experience, and any relevant references!

• Step 2 | Build Trust.

  Homeowners are looking for trustworthy individuals to care for their homes and pets.
  
  As a beginner, it may be challenging to build trust without previous experience.
  
  Consider house sitting for friends, family, or acquaintances first to gain testimonials and references.
  
  These references will boost your profile and increase your chances of being selected for future house sitting opportunities.
  
  You can also include links to other sites with relevant reviews like your Airbnb profile, VRBO, etc. until you’ve garnered reviews as a housesitter.

• Step 3 | Define Your Preferences.

  Determine your preferred house sitting locations, dates, and the type of assignments you're interested in.
  
  Some homeowners often require pet care, while others may seek garden care or home maintenance.
  
  By specifying your preferences, you can align your interests with suitable opportunities!

• Step 4 | Create an Application

  When applying for house sitting assignments, personalize each message to demonstrate your genuine interest in the homeowner's needs and your commitment to their property, pets, plants, etc.
  
  Highlight any relevant experience you have, your love for animals/plants/home care, and any specific skills you possess that make you an ideal candidate.

• Step 5 | Communicate!

  Effective communication is key to a successful house sitting arrangement.
  
  Respond to homeowner messages promptly, and be open to discussing their expectations, responsibilities, and any additional details.
  
  Also be sure to voice any concerns or issues you may have as soon as possible.
  
  Clear communication helps build trust and ensures a smooth experience for both parties.

• Step 6 | Agree to House Sitting Terms.

  Before confirming a house sitting assignment, establish a written agreement with the homeowner.
  
  Outline the duration of the sit, responsibilities, pet care instructions, security protocols, and any other relevant details.
  
  Also factor potential travel delays into the timing of your arrival and departure.
  
  Having a written agreement provides clarity and avoids misunderstandings.

• Step 7 | Prepare for the House Sit.

  Gather necessary information about the homeowner's property, such as alarm systems, maintenance routines, and emergency contacts.
  
  Prepare a checklist of questions to ask the homeowner upon arrival to familiarize yourself with the property and its requirements.

• Step 8 | Care for Pets, Plants, More..?

  If the house sit involves pet care, make sure you understand the pets' routines, feeding schedules, exercise needs, and any specific medical requirements.
  
  Take the time to bond with the animals and provide them with the love and attention they need in the homeowner's absence.

• Step 9 | Respect the Home.

  Treat the homeowner's property with care and respect. Follow any guidelines provided and maintain the house in a clean and tidy condition.
  
  Ensure you understand garbage disposal procedures, any specific instructions for appliances, and adhere to security measures.

• Step 10 | Enjoy the Experience!

  House sitting is an incredible opportunity to live like a local and explore new destinations. Take advantage of the location and immerse yourself in the community. Respect the homeowner's privacy, but also embrace the chance to experience the neighborhood, local attractions, and culture!

Remember, every house sitting experience is unique, and each homeowner will have their own set of expectations. With time and experience, you'll refine your skills and build a strong reputation within the house sitting community. Enjoy your house sitting adventures, and make the most of this exciting way to travel by living like a local!

xoxo,
Lily