How to Hire Year Round Staff for a Summer Home

Owning a summer home can often be a year-round time commitment. Unless you completely close down the home at the end of the season, you'll need people to check in on it and keep it from falling apart during the off season.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Determine what kind of staff you need. If you're planning to turn off the utilities, you'll basically need a housekeeper to clean it every so often, someone to check the appliances and plumbing to make sure nothing freezes and a landscaper to take care of mowing and planting in the spring and fall. You may also want a handyman to finish odd jobs to keep the house in tip-top shape.

2. Post an advertisement in the newspaper classifieds. Consider a separate ad for each job you're planning to fill.

3. Create an ad on websites like Craigslist. They are becoming a hot place to find and advertise for staff.

4. Contact temp agencies in your area. They may know of people right off the bat who will serve as a housekeeper.

5. Conduct interviews. Assess the candidate's qualifications, experience and demeanor. They have to be able to work independently, be reliable and trustworthy.

6. Read through the yellow pages and call handymen and landscapers. Have them come out to the property to inspect it and discuss your needs before you offer them the job.

7. Clearly state your expectations and set a schedule for staff members. Determine how often projects and landscaping need to be done. Decide whether you'll be paying by day, hour or project.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't be afraid to interview several people before you settle on the staff for your summer home. You'll need to trust them with a key, so it has to be someone who's responsible.

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