Handy Hints For House Sitting
Would you like to explore parts of Australia without spending much? If so, house sitting might be perfect for you. House sitting is a fantastic option as it allows you to settle into a place without having to pay for accommodation. Typically, these are short-term placements that provide enough time to explore the area, with a reliable base to return to. In exchange, you may need to feed and care for the owner's pets, gardens, and lawns or simply be present in the house.
What works for me is word of mouth. I let family and friends know I’m available for house sitting, and the word gets around. If you come across as a trustworthy and considerate person, I’m sure you’ll start receiving offers.
There are also various websites where you can register and pay to be a house sitter or have your house sat for free. I signed up for aussiehousesitter.com.au a couple of years ago; however, the problem for me was that I'm really not an animal person. I assumed there would be people without pets needing a house sitter, yet 99% of people do. I was also looking for a long-term stay of two months or more. Most of the house sits advertised are just for a long weekend or a week or two. So while it didn’t work out for me, if you love caring for pets, I think it’s a great option. You simply fill out your profile and input the dates and places you’re interested in. Homeowners can then contact you directly, or you can express your interest in someone’s property.
If you’re successful in landing a job, you usually meet with the homeowners before their trip to discuss the requirements during your stay. I like to bring my own questions and expectations, such as needing my own bedroom and access to Wi-Fi. You might also need manuals for the dishwasher, washing machine, or pool cleaner. Each stay is different. Some will offer you their car to use, while other families may have Foxtel or Netflix available. Some might even have you mowing their lawn, while others just want you to be seen at the property, with lights on at night and a car in the driveway to indicate that someone is home.
This was my checklist of questions for the home owners:
· List of emergency phone numbers
· Their contact number while away
· Where the metre box is located
· Is there a house alarm?
· When is the bin collection day?
· Where to put their mail?
· Do they want their home phone answered if it rings?
· The Wi-Fi password
· How to use the television, air conditioner, oven and washing machine
· Jobs required to do during the stay
· Confirm start and end dates and time
· Will they be letting the neighbours know they are going away and that I will be staying there?
On the day the homeowners return, I like to leave a loaf of fresh bread and a carton of milk. Going to the shops is probably the last thing they feel like doing after their holiday.
I also ensure their home is spotless, which involves cleaning the main areas, sweeping, dusting, vacuuming the carpet, and putting my bedding and bath towel in the laundry, making sure to return everything to its proper place. Leaving a bunch of fresh flowers in a vase on the table is an added treat. By creating a good impression, I increase my chances of being asked back and for them to recommend me to other couples.
If you do happen to break or damage anything during your stay, be honest up front. Message your family or leave a note behind. It is better they hear it from you rather than them discovering it themselves. Everyone understands accidents happen and they will be more understanding if you are truthful about it.
House-sitting can work well for both homeowners and house sitters if there is a mutual level of respect and trust. If you are flexible with your dates and where about’s you would like to go then house sitting is a viable option. It is a great way to become a local without having to pay for a place to stay.
What do you think? Have you house sat for a family before? Did it work out? Would you recommend it to others?
