How to House Sit for People on Vacation

House-sitting is a great way to escape your own life and try on a new home while somebody is on vacation. It's also a great way to make extra money and can be a lot of fun, if done responsibly. Read on to learn how to house sit for people on vacation.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Become a house sitter by being in the right place at the right time. If somebody you know is going on vacation, ask them about who will be taking care of their pets or offer to watch the house for them.
2. Prove that you are responsible, considerate and trustworthy and people will want you to watch their homes when they go on vacation. If you can't say these things about yourself, you probably shouldn't do it even if somebody offers.
3. Get the job by asking around, and then make sure that you know what they expect of you. If they've never had a house sitter before, or this is your first time house-sitting, ask lots of specific questions about their house rules, what they need you to take care of, and any special considerations.
4. Pick up the keys at least a day before, make sure that they work, and also get a list of critical information like where they'll be and how to reach them, local emergency numbers, the utility and cable providers numbers, and an emergency contact in the area just in case.
5. Move in or drop by depending on the agreement, and reread the lists of things you need to do. Don't let the pets run free or neglect the plants, and treat their home with respect.
6. Don't panic. Sometimes, life happens. If you're doing your best and something goes amiss, don't try to hide it. Call and tell them immediately what's going on and then fix it. If it's your fault, pay for it yourself. If it's something beyond your control, then they need to step up, even if they're out of town
7. Leave their home nicer than you found it. You're not the housekeeper, but pick up after yourself and clean up a little to make their homecoming even better and they'll probably hire you next time they go on vacation.
8. Consider becoming a professional. House-swapping and house sitting is becoming an international phenomena that you can now do full time if you're willing to travel. It's great for those who work from home or who are self-employed and can even keep a different roof over your head year-round.