We remember that exact moment when we first heard about house sitting.
There we were, trapped in our usual routine of work, mortgage payments, and the occasional holiday, when we watched a programme featuring a couple who mentioned an incredible concept: strangers actually trusting other strangers with their homes and beloved pets while they went on holiday.
It sounded almost too good to be true, didn’t it?
Like many people, we found ourselves wondering whether house sitting was a service, a proper job, or simply free accommodation with strings attached.
Whatever it was, we knew we had to find out more.
What Exactly is House Sitting?
At its heart, house sitting is beautifully simple.
It’s an arrangement that brings together homeowners who need to travel with people who are happy to stay in their home whilst they’re away. Sometimes pets are involved, and sometimes they aren’t; often, no money changes hands.
For homeowners, it’s about peace of mind.
They get to travel knowing their home is occupied, their garden is being watered, and their furry family members are receiving love and attention.
For house sitters, it’s the chance to experience new places without the burden of accommodation costs, and if you’re an animal lover like we are, it’s even better.
It really is one of those rare win-win situations that actually works for everyone involved.
Can Anyone Really Do This?
The honest answer is yes, pretty much anyone can become a house sitter.
We’ve met travellers, retirees, digital nomads, pet enthusiasts, and people simply looking for an alternative to traditional renting or buying.
The beauty of house sitting is that it welcomes people from all walks of life.
Generally, you need to be at least 18 years old; however, it’s ultimately the homeowner’s decision about who they feel comfortable welcoming into their home. And that’s perfectly reasonable when you think about it.
When we first considered house sitting, we asked ourselves the same questions you’re probably asking now:
- Were we trustworthy enough?
- Could we handle the responsibility?
- Did we have what it takes to care for someone else’s most precious possessions?
What Experience Do You Actually Need?
Here’s something that might surprise you: the most valuable experience you can bring to house sitting is simply life experience.
Homeowners aren’t necessarily looking for professional pet care qualifications or housekeeping certificates. They’re looking for someone they can trust.
What homeowners look for in a great house sitter.
Think about it from their perspective.
They’re entrusting you with their home, which is often their most significant financial asset, and their pets, who are genuinely like family members. What they need to know is that you’re reliable, responsible, and capable of caring for what matters most to them.
Pet Care Responsibilities
Pet care can vary significantly depending on the homeowner’s needs.
We’ve walked energetic dogs, administered medication to elderly cats, and even helped a tortoise emerge from hibernation.
Each situation is unique, but it’s all about following the established routines and providing the love and attention these animals are used to receiving.
Beyond Pet Care
House sitting often involves additional responsibilities as well.
You might find yourself watering plants, maintaining a swimming pool, mowing the lawn, or simply keeping the house clean and tidy.
These are typically the same sorts of tasks you’d do to maintain your own home, so if you can manage your own living space, you’re probably well-equipped for house sitting.
Getting Your First Taste of House Sitting
Before diving into house sitting for strangers, we’d strongly recommend starting with friends or colleagues.
This gives you a real appreciation for what house sitting actually involves and helps you understand whether it’s something you genuinely enjoy.
Now, we’re not talking about popping round to your mum’s house whilst she’s at the shops.
Family members are naturally inclined to overlook our shortcomings, but when you’re house sitting for others, your credibility is genuinely being evaluated.
House sitting is about so much more than just leaving food in a bowl or checking the windows are locked. It’s about maintaining routines, providing companionship for pets, and treating someone’s home with the same care you’d show your own.
The key is to make the pets and the home your top priority.
When the homeowner returns, they should find everything exactly as they’d hope, with happy pets and a well-maintained home. That’s how you build the reputation that will serve you well in future house sitting opportunities.
Building Your Reference Collection
When you’ve successfully looked after homes for friends or colleagues, don’t be shy about asking for references. We know it might feel a bit awkward at first, but these references become absolutely invaluable when you start applying for house sits with people who don’t know you.
Let your friends know you’re considering house sitting more seriously, whether locally or even internationally.
Send them an email request for a reference, and don’t hesitate to provide some question prompts to help them understand what information would be most helpful.
These references are pure gold when you’re ready to start house sitting for strangers. They provide the trust foundation that homeowners need to feel confident about inviting you into their homes.
Creating Your House Sitting Profile
When you’re ready to start house sitting more seriously, your profile becomes your first impression.
Remember, you’re competing with retirees, digital nomads, experienced travellers, and locals who might have geographical advantages.
Your profile should be informative, engaging, honest, and concise.
Think of it like a job application process – a well-crafted profile helps you advance to that crucial interview stage where homeowners can really get to know you.
Taking the Leap
Looking back, we’re so grateful we took that initial leap into house sitting.
What started as curiosity about an intriguing concept has opened up a whole new way of experiencing the world whilst doing something genuinely meaningful.
The truth is, if you’re responsible, trustworthy, and genuinely care about animals and homes, you probably already have what it takes to be a successful house sitter. The rest is just about taking that first step and seeing where this adventure might lead you.
Are you ready to give house sitting a try?