The Legal Aspects of House Sitting in the UK

The Legal Aspects of House Sitting in the UK

House sitting in the UK offers a unique opportunity for both homeowners and sitters, but understanding the legal framework is essential. While house sitting is often an informal arrangement, there are legal considerations, including contracts, insurance requirements, and how to handle disputes. Ensuring clarity in these areas helps protect both parties and creates a smooth house-sitting experience. This guide explores the key legal aspects of house sitting in the UK, offering practical insights for those looking to navigate the process with confidence.

 

House Sitting Agreements and Contracts

Many house-sitting arrangements are informal, but having a written agreement ensures clarity and prevents potential disputes. A well-drafted contract outlines the responsibilities of both the homeowner and the house sitter, setting clear expectations.

 

Key Elements of a House Sitting Agreement:

  • Duration of the sit – Specify the start and end dates. Timings too, can vary due to when the home owners may need to leave and return per their transport connections.
  • Responsibilities – Detail tasks such as pet care, garden maintenance, and security measures.
  • Emergency protocols – Define actions to take in case of unexpected situations. e.g. if you get locked out of the home or a pet gets sick while in your care.
  • Expenses – Clarify if the sitter is responsible for any costs, such as utilities. Additionally, what to do if you need to cover emergency pet care.
  • Guest policy – State whether the sitter can invite visitors.
  • House rules – Include specific requirements, such as smoking policies and restricted areas.

Having a signed agreement provides legal protection and ensures that both parties are aware of their commitments.

 

Insurance Considerations for House Sitters

One of the most overlooked aspects of house sitting is insurance. Both the homeowner and the sitter must understand what is covered under existing policies and whether additional coverage is needed.

 

Homeowner’s Insurance:

  • Some homeowner policies cover house sitters, but others may void coverage if a non-family member is staying on the property.
  • Homeowners might consider informing their insurer about a house sitter’s potential stay to confirm coverage.
  • It’s advisable to check if the policy covers damages caused by the sitter or theft during their stay.
  • If you are with a matching service like TrustedHousesitters, there is built-in insurance that comes with some membership tiers, so check to see exactly what you’re covered for.

 

House Sitter’s Insurance:

  • House sitters may consider personal liability insurance, which covers accidental damage to the property. This cover may vary from country to country.
  • Public liability insurance is recommended in case a third party, such as a visitor or delivery person, suffers an injury while the sitter is in charge.
  • If the house sitter is providing pet care, pet insurance or an agreement on veterinary expenses should be discussed beforehand.
  • As above for homeowners, if you’re signed up to a service you may have some level of cover that comes with your membership.

 

Tip on seeking advice: if you have specific questions about your situation, it can sometimes be helpful to ask other people about their experiences. Drop your question in our Facebook Group here.

 

Handling Disputes and Legal Protection

While most house-sitting arrangements go smoothly, disputes can arise over issues such as property damage, breaches of agreement, or disagreements regarding pet care.

 

How to Avoid Disputes:

  • Have a clear agreement – A written contract minimises misunderstandings.
  • Maintain communication – Regular updates to the homeowner ensure lines of communication are kept open and transparent, and go a long way to helping to resolve minor issues before they escalate.
  • Document property condition – Taking photos before and after the sit can serve as evidence in case of disputes.

 

What to Do if a Dispute Occurs:

  • Try to resolve the issue directly with the homeowner.
  • If necessary, use a third-party mediator, such as the house-sitting platform through which the arrangement was made.
  • As a last resort, legal action can be taken, but this is rare and usually avoidable with clear agreements in place. In our 8+ years operating within the house sitting industry we’ve never heard of a dispute going this far.

 

Is House Sitting Considered a Legal Tenancy?

One common concern is whether house sitting creates a tenancy agreement under UK law. Generally, house sitters do not have tenancy rights because they are not paying rent and do not have exclusive possession of the property.

However, issues can arise if:

  • The house sitter stays for an extended period and starts receiving mail at the property.
  • There is an agreement that resembles a rental contract.

To avoid confusion, homeowners should clarify in writing that the arrangement is a temporary, non-rental agreement, and house sitters should not use the address for official purposes.

 

 

Understanding the legal aspects of house sitting in the UK is crucial for both homeowners and sitters. Clear contracts, proper insurance coverage, and good communication help ensure a smooth experience while avoiding potential disputes. By following these guidelines, house sitters can protect themselves legally while enjoying the benefits of this unique arrangement.

Find out more and get 25% off a membership at TrustedHousesitters here!

 

Digital Nomad Cafes and Co-Working Spaces in England (2025 Edition)

Digital Nomad Cafes and Co-Working Spaces in England (2025 Edition)

Digital nomad cafes in England are shaping the way remote workers thrive in 2025. And while the weather is so chilly, there’s really no better place to be than a cosy cafe! England is a hub for productivity and inspiration, offering vibrant cities filled with reliable Wi-Fi, great coffee, and community-driven workspaces. Whether you’re hosting virtual meetings, tackling a creative project, or exploring new cities, these cafes and co-working spaces cater to every digital nomad’s needs.

Digital nomad cafes England

 

London: A Hub for Productivity

London is the ultimate destination for digital nomad cafes in England. Its neighbourhoods are packed with trendy cafes and collaborative co-working hubs. Here are some must-visit locations:

1. Shoreditch

Known for its high-speed Wi-Fi, cosy seating, and relaxed ambiance, this café is ideal for freelancers. Shoreditch is known as a great place to find others working on laptops while sipping the good stuff. Here’s some other great recommendations on where to work.

2. Second Home Spitalfields

A blend of creativity and nature, this co-working space offers ergonomic furniture, lush greenery, and regular events that foster community connections.

3. Mare Street Market, East London

A beautiful spot in a cool neighbourhood – we love Broadway Market and Hackney. You’ll also find a new Mare Street Market at Kings Cross.

For more inspiration, read here next.
 

Manchester: Northern Charm with Modern Amenities

Manchester’s innovative scene makes it a leading city for digital nomad cafes in England. Here are some top picks:

1. Foundation Coffee House

With industrial décor and a welcoming vibe, this café features reliable Wi-Fi, ample power outlets, and excellent coffee—perfect for focus and collaboration.

2. The Sharp Project

This tech-oriented co-working space provides private desks, meeting rooms, and networking opportunities, ideal for startups and freelancers.

3. Takk (Northern Quarter)

A Scandinavian-inspired cafe offering a warm ambiance, collaborative spaces, and energizing coffee, Takk is a must-visit for remote workers.

Discover more about work and travel ideas in Manchester.
 

Bristol: A Vibrant City for Work and Play

Bristol’s creative culture and innovation make it an exciting choice for digital nomads. Here are the best spots for remote work:

1. Boston Tea Party (Clifton)

Sustainability meets productivity at this café chain. Spacious seating, excellent food options, and a relaxed vibe make it a favourite.

2. Desklodge House

With themed rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a strong sense of community, this co-working space inspires creativity and productivity.

3. Runway East

Runway East offers flexible memberships, collaborative spaces, and a vibrant startup community, perfect for freelancers and teams.

Explore more travel and work destinations in the UK.
 

Other Cities Worth Exploring

1. Birmingham: Alpha Works

With panoramic city views and sleek facilities, Alpha Works combines professionalism with modern amenities, making it a standout co-working space.

2. Leeds: Avenue HQ

Located in the heart of Leeds, this co-working hub offers breakout areas, private meeting rooms, and a supportive professional community.

3. Brighton: Redroaster Coffee

For those who thrive in artistic settings, this ethical and eco-friendly café provides a creative and inspiring workspace.

 


 
Practical Tips for Choosing the Perfect Workspace

  • Wi-Fi Speed and Reliability: Always check reviews or ask staff about the internet quality.
  • Ambiance: Select spaces that suit your style, whether it’s bustling cafes for energy or quieter spots for focus.
  • Amenities: Look for ergonomic seating, power outlets, and good lighting.
  • Community: Networking opportunities can add value to your workspace experience.

 

Future Trends in Digital Nomad Workspaces

The future of digital nomad cafes in England includes:

  • Hybrid Café-Co-Working Models: Combining dining with professional amenities for seamless productivity.
  • Eco-Friendly Designs: Spaces focusing on sustainability with natural lighting and green energy.
  • AI-Powered Workspace Recommendations: Personalized suggestions for workspaces based on user preferences and locations.

 

The best digital nomad and co-working cafes in England are shaping the remote work experience in 2025. From London’s dynamic spaces to Manchester’s innovative hubs and Bristol’s creative gems, these locations cater to every need. Explore England’s cafes and co-working spaces to unlock productivity, inspiration, and community connections.
 

10 Essential Tips for Digital Nomads Moving to England in 2025

10 Essential Tips for Digital Nomads Moving to England in 2025

Are you considering moving to England as a digital nomad in 2025? This vibrant country offers incredible opportunities for remote workers, from its bustling cities to peaceful countryside retreats. Whether you’re drawn by the rich culture, professional opportunities, or the chance to explore iconic landmarks, this guide will provide you with all the essential tips to make your transition seamless and successful. Hopefully you love it here as much as we do!

Digital nomad England 2025

 

Research Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads

Understanding visa requirements is crucial for digital nomads moving to England in 2025. Options like the Skilled Worker Visa and Innovator Visa cater to professionals and entrepreneurs. Research eligibility criteria, prepare the necessary documentation, and start the application process early to avoid delays.

Pro Tip: Consulting an immigration expert can help you navigate the process efficiently.

 

If you’re from the Commonwealth like we are, check if you’re eligible for an Ancestral Visa.

 

Set Up a Local Bank Account

A local bank account is essential for managing finances. Major banks such as Barclays, HSBC, and Lloyds offer accounts for expats, while digital banks like Monzo and Starling provide convenient app-based services. You’ll need identification, proof of address, and valid visa documents to open an account.

Applying for a bank account, you can often get caught up in a cycle of needing a local address or other details to be accepted. Barclays was originally flexible for us when we moved. However, we are now with a combination of NatWest and use Wise for transfers (get a great deal on Wise here).

Learn more: UK Bank Account Guide.

 

Find the Right Accommodation

Finding suitable housing is a priority. Websites like Rightmove and Zoopla are excellent for private rentals, while co-living spaces such as The Collective and Mason & Fifth foster a sense of community. Suburban areas near major cities often offer more affordable options with easy access to public transport.

Pro Tip: Use expat forums and Facebook groups to find housing recommendations.

 

More information: Watch our Moving to the UK budget tips vlog here!

 

Get Familiar with the Healthcare System

England’s National Health Service (NHS) provides affordable healthcare to residents. Register with a General Practitioner (GP) upon arrival for access to NHS services. You need to register when you find a place to live, as you have to attend a GP near to your residential postcode.

Private health insurance is also available for faster access to specialists or additional coverage. Often, private health will come as a benefits package with employment, so ask your employer for more information.

Plan: NHS Registration Guide.

 

Embrace England’s Transportation Network

England boasts an extensive transportation system. Use an Oyster Card for London travel and a Railcard for discounted train fares nationwide. Cities like Cambridge and Oxford are bike-friendly, making cycling a great option for eco-conscious commuters.

Pro tip: you can use your own debit or credit card on the network to tap-on-tap-off too, and it is capped at a daily rate. If you’re travelling around the country a lot, use the Trainline app and add a National Railcard to it – for a nominal fee each year you’ll save on train fares.

 

Build Your Professional Network

Networking is key to success as a digital nomad in England. Attend events at co-working spaces such as WeWork and Huckletree, or join Meetup groups tailored to remote workers. LinkedIn is a valuable tool for connecting with professionals in your industry.

Pro Tip: Many co-working spaces host regular networking events.

 

More information: build your new community and friendship group :)

 

Understand Tax and Legal Obligations

Familiarise yourself with England’s tax system. If you’re earning income while living in England, you may need to pay UK taxes as a self-employed resident. Register with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to ensure compliance. Hiring a tax adviser or accountant can help you navigate the complexities of the tax system.

Learn more: UK Tax Guide for Expats.

 

Choose the Right Work Environment

England offers a variety of co-working spaces and cafes that cater to digital nomads. Top picks include Second Home, Work.Life, and The Office Group. These spaces provide reliable Wi-Fi, ergonomic workstations, and opportunities for networking.

Explore co-working options: Top UK Co-working Spaces; and London’s co-working cafes.

 

Stay Connected with Reliable Internet

Reliable internet is essential for remote work. Most urban areas have high-speed broadband, and co-working spaces provide excellent connectivity. For rural areas, consider portable Wi-Fi devices or data plans from providers like EE and Vodafone.

Pro Tip: Use tools like Speedtest to evaluate Wi-Fi quality before committing to a location. And don’t forget internet security – we’ve been a fan of Nord VPN for years! Get three months free Nord here.

 

Embrace England’s Culture and Lifestyle

Living in England is about more than work. Explore historical landmarks like Stonehenge and Buckingham Palace, savor diverse cuisines, and attend local festivals. Popular destinations like the Lake District and Brighton offer a perfect escape from city life.

Discover more: Visit England – Travel Guides.

 

Tips for Settling in Quickly

  • Learn Local Etiquette: Politeness and queuing are valued in English culture.
  • Explore Europe: England’s proximity to cities like Paris and Amsterdam makes weekend trips easy.
  • Join Communities: Expats groups on Facebook provide support and advice.

 

Moving to England as a digital nomad in 2025 is a rewarding adventure. By following these essential tips, you’ll be well-prepared to settle in and thrive. From professional networking to exploring cultural landmarks, England offers endless opportunities to enrich your personal and professional life.

Check out our comprehensive guide to England’s top co-working spaces.

 

*This post includes affiliate links – if you choose to purchase from them we will make a small commission. Hopefully, at the same time you will enjoy a great service at a reduced price :)

House sitting tips – how to become a PAID house sitter [2025 guide!]

House sitting tips – how to become a PAID house sitter [2025 guide!]

Hey there, fellow travellers and aspiring house sitters! It’s Sarah here, bringing you the freshest insights in our how to become a paid house sitter – 2025 guide.

If you’ve finally decided to turn your passion for house sitting into a thriving business, you’re in the right place. Transitioning from free house sitting to a paid role is a journey filled with learning, growth, and exciting House Sitting Opportunities.

But don’t worry, you’re not alone on this journey. We’ve combined our years of experience with the collective wisdom of our house sitting community on YouTube and Facebook to give you a comprehensive step-by-step guide.

This guide is all about making that pivotal transition with confidence and savvy.

 

How to become a PAID house sitter in 2025: complete guide!

 

Step 1: Gain Experience and Build a Reputation

I get it, you’re eager to start earning as a house sitter. But remember, every seasoned professional began somewhere, and often, that’s with volunteering. Yes, I’m talking about initially house sitting for free.

It’s a tried and tested pathway for many in our community, and it’s a valuable step in creating a legitimate business.

But here’s a little twist: while you might not be getting paid in cash, you’re gaining something priceless – experience and credibility.

Our own journey in London was a springboard for us. We started with two simple desires: to spend time with pets (we missed having our own furry friends) and to explore new neighbourhoods.

 

TrustedHousesitters was our gateway to amazing adventures, connections with wonderful pets and people, and it helped us build the reputation we needed to eventually charge for our services.

By offering your house sitting services in any form, you’re building a solid foundation for your future house sitting business. Whether you’re setting up a pet care business in your locality or planning to travel for house sits, gaining a diverse range of experiences is key.

And here’s a Professional House Sitter Tip: If you’re focusing on pet care in your local area, it’s often easier to start charging right away. Many pro house sitters use a hybrid model: they commit to longer ‘free’ sits through platforms like TrustedHousesitters for the experience, but charge for shorter, local stays.

 

Collect References

No matter where you sit, always ask for references or testimonials after each assignment. This is crucial for validating your services. Capture those special moments (with permission, of course) and build a portfolio that showcases your reliability and love for pets. Whether it’s through a personal website, blog, or digital storytelling tools like Adobe Spark, a well-crafted portfolio is your ticket to standing out in the House Sitting Services Marketing sphere.

 

 

Step 2: Create an Online Presence

In today’s digital age, having an online presence is a game-changer, especially if you’re keen on expanding your house sitting services beyond your local neighbourhood.

Now, I know what you might be thinking – do I really need a website or a blog? While it’s not mandatory, especially if you’re thriving on word-of-mouth in your community, having a digital space of your own can significantly boost your reach and credibility. And trust me, this becomes increasingly important if you plan to travel and house sit in different locations.

Your online presence, whether it’s a blog like ours, a website, or even a digital showcase, should highlight a few key things:

  • Your services: Be clear about what you offer.
  • Your experience: Show off those testimonials and references.
  • Contact information: Make it easy for potential clients to reach you.
  • Fees: This is crucial. As a pet owner myself, I appreciate transparency in pricing.

 

If social media is your thing, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube are incredible for promoting your services. The key here is to be authentic and true to your style.

Remember, you can’t sell a secret, so talking about your services is a must to grow your house sitting business.

Joining house sitting sites, both free and paid, like TrustedHousesitters and Rover, can also significantly enhance your digital footprint. It’s all about getting your name out there in the world of house sitting opportunities.

There is a comprehensive list of sites and services featured in our training – grab it for just $2.50 here!

 

13 things house and pet sitters much know

 

Step 3: Set Your Rates

Let’s talk money – setting your rates is a crucial part of professionalising your house sitting services. Research is key here. Understand what other house sitters in your area are charging and set competitive rates. As of 2025, here’s a little insight into the current house sitting rates 2025:

  • In major UK cities like London, rates by independent providers range from £40 to £65 per night. This will include the routine and walks you’ve agreed upon with the owner based on the pet’s needs.
  • If you are using a third party site like Rover, you may need to charge more to accommodate for the commission they will take; but the upside is that a matching platform can give you exposure to new clients, especially early on in your business. So, you’ll probably need to charge from £50 (more in bigger cities).
  • Don’t forget you can always ‘package’ services to be more attractive to prospective clients. You package might include arriving early, staying late, special care etc.

These rates are just a guideline and can vary based on your location, experience, and the services you offer.

Create a Pricing Structure

Develop a clear pricing structure considering location, duration, and additional services like pet care or gardening. If you’re based in one place, consider offering packages tailored to different needs – basic house sitting, house sitting with pet care, drop-in day visits, dog walking, etc. But remember, don’t overcommit. Balancing your ethics with income is crucial, especially when a living soul (like a pet) is involved.

For those travelling, consider offering daily or nightly rates, long-term discounted rates, and rates for additional services. Your financial goals should dictate your pricing strategy – plan backwards from your desired income to ensure sustainability and profitability in your house sitting business.

Important to note: if you are turning house sitting into a business, manage home owners expectations up front. Share your fees, own your worth.

Great tips and more info here :)

 

 

Step 4: Market Your Services

As you step into the world of professional house sitting, let’s dive into one of the most crucial aspects – House Sitting Services Marketing. I’ve seen some incredible networking by pro house and pet sitters, and here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Networking: The good old-fashioned in-person approach works wonders, especially if you’re focusing locally. Attend community events, join local groups, and spread the word about your services.
  • Word of Mouth: It’s a powerful tool! Encourage satisfied clients to refer you to their friends and family.
  • Online Advertising: If your business is mainly local, consider using online advertising platforms like Facebook ads or Google ads to target potential clients in your area.

Creative marketing doesn’t have to be expensive. Simple tactics like putting up posters at local dog parks or distributing flyers can effectively capture your target market.

For those targeting international house sits, your online presence becomes even more vital. Engage in community groups, especially in the areas you’re interested in, like Los Angeles or other major cities. Be an active participant in house sitting and digital nomad groups. Share valuable insights and tips, and occasionally let others know about your services and availability.

✨Our podcast guests, Kate and Dave, have been house sitting long term for over nine years and they shared some amazing advice for how and where to find sits. Here’s what they said:

 

Step 5: Communicate Clearly with Clients

Clear communication is key in any business, and the house sitting business is no exception. Setting and agreeing on clear expectations upfront is essential.

This includes discussing your services, rates, and any additional charges. Draft a house sitting agreement outlining the terms and conditions, responsibilities, and payment details. This will not only professionalize your services but also protect both you and the homeowner.

Remember, not everyone will be comfortable paying for house sitting services, and that’s okay. Focus on clients who value and are willing to pay for your services. As in any line of work, owning your worth is crucial.

 

 

Step 6: Provide Excellent Service

This step is non-negotiable, whether you’re sitting for free or transitioning to paid services. Treating every assignment with professionalism and respect is paramount. Go the extra mile – leave the house cleaner than you found it, provide regular updates on pets, and show genuine care and attention.

In our own experience as sitters, we’ve seen how going above and beyond sets you apart and leads to repeat invitations, even when you start charging. Remember, successful House Sitting Opportunities rely heavily on trust and reliability. Your dedication to providing top-notch service will reflect in your reputation and client satisfaction.

 

Step 7: Review and Adjust

One of the best practices in running a successful house sitting business is regularly reviewing and adjusting your approach. This is crucial for staying current with the House Sitting Opportunities in 2025. Evaluate your business’s progress periodically and assess whether you’re meeting your income goals. You might find that your rates need adjusting, or perhaps there’s room to expand your services.

This ongoing review process also involves keeping up with the latest trends and demands in the house sitting market. For example, as we move into 2025, staying informed about the evolving needs of homeowners and adapting your services accordingly can make a significant difference.

 

Step 8: Manage Your Finances

Now, onto the nitty-gritty of finances. As your house sitting transitions from a casual arrangement to a more structured business, keeping accurate records of your earnings and expenses becomes vital.

If it’s within your means, consider consulting a financial planner or accountant. They can provide invaluable advice, ensuring your business’s financial health and helping you navigate tax implications.

A crucial part of financial management is setting aside a portion of your earnings for taxes. Since you’re not a traditional employee, this aspect of financial planning is something you’ll need to handle proactively. Remember, investing in your business, whether it’s in marketing, professional development, or other areas, is part of fostering growth and sustainability.

 

 

Step 9: Insurance and Professional Cover

As a professional house sitter, it’s wise to consider getting professional cover and insurance. This aspect is particularly important in the UK, where many house sitters invest in a DBS check (a police background check) and personal indemnity insurance. If you’re offering pet care services, getting pet first aid certifications can also boost your credibility.

The need for professional cover can vary depending on where you’re operating or the types of services you’re offering. But as a rule of thumb, it’s always better to be prepared and covered. This not only provides peace of mind for you but also for your clients, who are entrusting you with their homes and beloved pets.

 

Embracing the Journey Ahead

As you embark on this journey to becoming a professional house sitter, remember that every step, every sit, and every connection you make is a part of your growth. The world of House Sitting Opportunities is dynamic and full of potential. With the right approach and a bit of savvy, you can turn this passion into a profitable and fulfilling career.

Expand Your Horizons

In 2025, the scope for house sitting has widened significantly. We’re seeing more people than ever opening their homes to house sitters, not just for pet care but for the peace of mind that comes with having a trusted person looking after their property. This increase in demand is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to establish themselves in the house sitting business.

 

Stay Informed and Adaptive

The key to success in this industry is staying informed and adaptive. Keep up with the latest trends in house sitting, be it new platforms, changing homeowner preferences, or evolving House Sitting Rates 2025. Being adaptable also means being open to opportunities in different locations, types of homes, and pet care requirements.

 

Building Relationships

Remember, at the heart of house sitting is the relationship you build with homeowners and their pets. Trust, reliability, and communication are the pillars of these relationships. Your ability to connect with homeowners and understand their needs will set you apart in the world of House Sitting Services Marketing.

 

Leverage Technology

In this digital age, leveraging technology can give you a significant advantage. Whether it’s managing bookings, promoting your services, or staying connected with clients, technology can streamline your operations and enhance your efficiency. Don’t shy away from using digital tools and platforms that can elevate your business.

 

Cultivating a Growth Mindset

Lastly, cultivating a growth mindset is crucial. See every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. Whether it’s dealing with an unexpected situation during a sit or learning new ways to market your services, approach these experiences with a positive and growth-oriented mindset.

 

Wrapping It Up

As we wrap up this Paid House Sitting Guide 2025, remember that building a successful house sitting business takes time, patience, and persistence. Keep honing your skills, delivering quality service, and effectively marketing your services. Soon, you’ll find yourself reaping the rewards of your hard work – the freedom to work on your terms, spending time with adorable pets, and exploring new places.

Stay connected with our community for more tips, advice, and shared experiences. We’re all in this exciting journey together!

 

Top links:

  1. Subscribe for more inspiration on YouTube: Travel Live Learn
  2. FREE TRAINING – 4 part email series House Sitting 101 – get yours here!
  3. Get amongst our travel community on Facebook: here

 

Questions or comments? Other advice to share? Let us know – drop us a line below.

 

 

 

 

3 BIG questions house sitters are asking in 2025

3 BIG questions house sitters are asking in 2025

House and pet sitting is an exciting avenue to explore for digital nomads, seasoned travellers, or those seeking novel ways to experience new places, people, and pets. This unique form of travel and accommodation, however, often leads to numerous queries.

We are in touch with a thriving house and pet sitting community here on Facebook and on our mailing list. Within this community, three key concerns have consistently emerged this year! To assist those seeking answers to the questions house sitters are asking most often, we’re providing some valuable insights and tips.

But first, if you’re an aspiring house and pet sitter, we’ve got two actions for you to take right now!

a) watch the video below for some great advice on how to get started.
b) sign up to our House Sitting 101 4-part email series. It’s FREE! Get it here!

 

The top 3 burning questions from from house and pet sitters now…

 

What’s the best way to manage scheduling and timing?

One of the prevalent questions house sitters are asking concerns the management of timing and schedules for house sits. The logistics of planning sits, coordinating travel, and dealing with last-minute changes can be challenging, particularly for those who prefer a detailed plan.

Our solution is embracing flexibility.

Despite meticulous planning or early bookings, unexpected events will inevitably occur. It’s crucial to budget for contingencies such as additional accommodation expenses between sits. Furthermore, we’ve found that refraining from scheduling back-to-back house sits can provide a much-needed respite, ensuring we arrive at the next house sit relaxed and punctual, a characteristic homeowners highly value.

 

 

How do I find long-term house sits?

The search for long-term house sitting assignments is another question frequently asked by house sitters. These longer sits are especially desirable for those aiming to deeply immerse themselves in a new culture or for digital nomads seeking balance and a consistent base.

Many of our podcast guests talk about this way of travel and house sitting. Take a look at episodes here.

Securing such opportunities often requires a mixture of strategy and luck, similar to a job hunt. Building solid relationships with homeowners can lead to return invitations for extended stays. Staying active on house sitting platforms like TrustedHousesitters and being prepared with a ready-to-go application letter for potential opportunities can also prove beneficial. We would love to hear your experiences and tips on this topic!

 

Should I get paid as a house sitter?

One of the most debated questions house sitters are asking is whether to ask for payment for house sitting. Some sitters are happy to exchange their pet and home care services for accommodation and the enriching experiences it offers. Others, recognising the growing global demand, are turning house sitting into a paid enterprise.

Read our updated guide on how to start getting paid as a house sitter

We advocate for a balanced approach, acknowledging the validity of both methods, each catering to different types of homeowners and sitters. For those inclined towards paid house sitting, platforms like Rover can be a great starting point. Alternatively, establishing a local business and setting your rates based on the value you offer is also a viable option.

However, it’s essential to discuss payment expectations upfront to ensure fairness for all parties involved. If house sitting is your business, treat it as such: value your time, set your rates, and find the right clients who respect your terms.

While house and pet sitting can offer enriching and unique experiences, it comes with its own set of questions and challenges. Each sitter’s approach and preferences can vary, and finding what works best for you is key.

Whether you’re an experienced house sitter or new to this world, we invite you to share your thoughts and experiences. Join our ongoing conversations on social media and our Facebook Group, a community of learners and sharers.

For those new to house sitting or seeking further guidance, make sure you sign up for our FREE House Sitting 101 email series or grab our must-have quick-start guide to house and pet sitting available for just $5. Happy house sitting!

You might also like the latest episode of the Freedom and Four Paws Podcast, Travel FAQ – 6 Questions Nomads and House Sitters Want Answers To Now! Listen here

 

Amazon Prime Day 2024 Travel Best Of!

Amazon Prime Day 2024 Travel Best Of!

We rarely post about shopping here, but once a year we celebrate – Amazon Prime Day 2024 Travel Best Of!

Shopping + nomadic travel don’t always go hand in hand. Most of us aim to shed ‘stuff’ in favour of experiences. But Amazon Prime Day is around the corner on July 16 and 17, and there are a few awesome goodies we wanted to bring to your attention that may just make your travel life better.

View our Prime Day Travel Wish List

 

Our Amazon Prime Day 2024 Travel Best Of Wish List

This year we plan to upgrade a few of our travel essentials including:

Prime Day Travel Live Learn 2024 Wish List

 

Portable power bank: to reliably keep our devices charged on the go. Something that’s perfect for long flights or days exploring off the grid.

Noise-cancelling headphones: we’re fans of Bose and Anker to block out distractions and find focus, especially when in a busy co-working café.

Travel backpack: finding a versatile, spacious, sturdy yet stylish backpack is sometimes harder than you’d think, but essential for all of us with wanderlust.

Kindle E-Reader: I had to give up a physical library long ago when moving to live and work abroad. Now my Kindle needs upgrading – 2024 may be the year!

Portable WiFi hotspot: it’s nice to never have to worry about spotty internet and online security regardless of where we roam.

Camera, lights, action, smile: you bet we are dazzled by compact cameras, bright portable lights and smooth sound! :)

 

Pro Amazon Prime Day Tip

If you’ve never shopped Prime Day before, you’re missing out! My top tip is to go browse Amazon now, before the Prime Day sale.

Add whatever it is you love to a wish list (here’s how to do that if you’re unsure). Then, as soon as Prime Day kicks off, go straight to your wish list to see what’s on sale and purchase if the price looks good! 

View our Prime Day Travel Wish List

 

What will you purchase on Prime Day?

What are your must-have travel essentials? Maybe they’re tech gadgets, sustainable products, or even items for your pets (which are also included on our wish list!)? Leave a comment and let us know what you’ll be looking out for on Amazon Prime Day this year.

Disclaimer: Some of the links here are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.