Frequently Asked Questions
What do house-sitters and pet-sitters do?
House-sitters have an agreement with a homeowner, called a host, to live in a home temporarily while the host is away. Most hosts choose this arrangement so that their house is not vacant for an extended period of time. The house-sitter performs general upkeep - such as mail collection, indoor/outdoor plant care, lawn care, or pool maintenance - in addition to any other agreed upon tasks.
A pet-sitter does the same job as a house-sitter, with the added responsibility of taking care of one or more pets.
Why would someone let you stay in their home for free?
Actually, you are not staying for free. As a house-sitter, you provide home security and maintenance in exchange for staying in the home. So, you avoid the cost of paying for lodging and eating out while the host doesn't have to pay anyone to check on their property.
If you are a pet-sitter, you save the host even more because their pet(s) does not have to be boarded or travel.
How do I get started house-sitting or pet-sitting?
My favorite site for house-sitting and pet-sitting is called Trusted Housesitters. They make it easy to get started - you create a profile, search for the sits that you like, and apply.
Of course, there is a science to creating a profile that gets you noticed and writing an application letter that stands out. Your Discount Travel Coach has you covered with digital products and coaching to guide you.
If you're ready to get started now, you can get 25% off of your Trusted Housesitters membership by joining our e-mail list to stay in the know about all things house-sitting and budget travel. Click here to sign up.
What if I don't like pets?
You don't have to be an animal lover to be a house-sitter. While there are far more opportunities to house-sit if a pet are included, there are plenty of sits that don't involve pets at all.
Will I get paid for being a house-sitter or a pet-sitter?
Sitters do not get paid through my preferred platform, Trusted Housesitters. However, a host may invite you to sit for them again and offer to pay you.
There are many other platforms created for paid sitting. Also, you can use the experience, references, and reviews that you get from being a Trusted Housesitter to market your services independently.