How to House Sit Around the World
Sitting at home has become increasingly popular in recent years, combining temporary accommodation, travel, and pets in one place.
In exchange for looking after someone else's home and, most of the time, pets while on vacation, you can stay at home.
Home settlements can range from a few days to several months.
Available all over the world, they are a great way to travel to many different places; Many use it as a way to delay travel, meaning you spend more time in each area and focus more on the local experience than on a busy sightseeing weekend.
However, sitting at home is more than just free accommodation, and this guide can help you get started.
We hope you enjoy watching this video about How to Become a House Sitter
Source: The Minimalist Ninja
House Sitting Sites
The best and easiest way to secure home seats is through an underwriting website. There are many to choose from, depending on where you're targeting, your budget, and how often you want to use them.
These are just some of the most popular websites.
1. Trusted Housesitters
Trusted home caregivers are typically at the top of the list of sites to use, though, at $ 129 a year, it charges one of the highest membership fees to sign up as a caregiver.
If you know an existing member, it's easy to get a 25 percent discounted referral rate, opening up a variety of available international homes.
The interface is easy to use with many filters to help you refine your search, the ability to create your profile, and quality 24/7 support.
Although it is international, it is useful mainly for the UK, Europe, and North America.
2. MindMyHouse
Started in 2005, MindMyHouse was one of the first places to sit in a home. The "family" business has fewer options than others, but since a membership costs $ 20 for babysitters and is free for owners, it's a great option.
The places are mostly in Europe and the US, although there are more than 80 countries listed in the dropdown search.
The interface is basic but easy to use, and the site continues to be popular within the local community.
3. House Sitters America
If you are staying in the US, House Sitters America is hands down your best option.
The annual membership fee is $ 49 and you can search the entire country with an extensive list of filter options, including region and location, home type, amenities, seat length, and pet type.
House Sitters America has been around for over 12 years and has established itself as one of the best home seating in the US, with a large variety of seating available.
4. Nomador
With the highest end of membership fees of $ 89 per year, Nomador comes with the added benefit of a free trial that is valid for up to three applications.
Originally from France for European residential seating, it now operates globally with a focus on Europe and America.
5. Kiwi House Sitters, Aussie House Sitters
If you are heading to New Zealand or Australia, these places to sit at home are recognized as some of the best in their respective countries.
Members of House Sitters America will find the exact same layout and search capabilities on these two partner sites, which provide multiple filter options and a wide variety of locations in all areas of each country.
Apply for your first sit
After registering, it is important to spend time on your profile. Add lots of photos that represent who you are, and since you will likely take care of pets, include as many animals as you can.
Then fill out the rest of your profile in its entirety, verify your identity on the site, and add a description of who you are and why you want to stay home.
If you have previous experience in caring for pets or at home, get a reference and add it to your profile.
Before requesting a seat, read the details carefully, making sure you meet the requirements, which may include gardening, caring for multiple pets, and sometimes owning a car.
Create your message to the owner and show that you have read the post; ask questions, point out a common interest, describe any relevant experiences you have, and mention where you currently are.
If the owner is interested, the next step is to organize a video chat, or at least a phone call.
Housesitting is a two-way system, so it is important that both of you feel a good vibe when talking to each other.
Think of it as an interview, for them and for yourself, and ask any questions you have about the house, pets, your responsibilities, and the area.
Trust your instincts: If there are warning signs or you have an uncomfortable feeling during the call, don't be afraid to pass on the offer.
Important things to consider
It's not free hosting: If you're looking for a way to get free accommodation while traveling, this is not it.
Taking care of the house is an exchange and you are selected as the person responsible for taking care of someone's house and pets.
This means keeping the house clean and safe, receiving mail, and treating it as if it were your place.
You Must Love Animals: While you can find nursing homes that don't come without pets, most of the time, people are looking for someone to take care of their beloved animals.
This could mean taking the dogs for a daily walk, administering medication to an elderly cat, or cleaning up bird droppings; being an animal lover is key.
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