Homeowners: 18 Tips for Finding the Right House Sitters

You love your home and your pets, so it is important to choose house sitters who are a good fit for your lifestyle.
To attract suitable house sitters, there is no need to make things sound better than they are. Describe your animals' needs and the accommodation conditions accurately, and be sure to mention any drawbacks.

1. How far in advance you plan

If you like to plan your trips months in advance, it is best to start looking for house sitters as early as possible.
Create and publish your listing even if your travel plans are not yet finalised.
You can give approximate dates and explain how flexible they are.
The main advantage of planning ahead is that you will have a wider choice of candidates.

When looking for house sitters, be sure to explain your expectations regarding communication.
For example, you may want to receive regular updates and photos of your pets.
If so, make sure that the candidates are happy and able to keep you informed in this way.

3. Your personal preferences

Without discriminating against candidates, you may have certain preferences when choosing house sitters.
If so, explain in your listing why you are looking for a particular type of sitter.
For example, you may prefer a couple because you have a large property and several animals.
Conversely, your apartment may be very small and suitable for only one person.
You may also prefer a retired couple because they may have more availability.
Being clear about your preferences saves time for both you and the candidates.

4. Your concerns

You may feel uneasy about leaving your personal belongings in the care of people you do not know.
You can lock away important papers and documents or leave them with relatives.
Feel free to explain to your house sitters anything that matters to you when it comes to how your home is looked after.
Many house sitters are keen to meet homeowners' expectations and ensure that their pets are well cared for.

5. Your animals' habits and routines

Your pets have their own daily routines and little quirks, so it is essential to find house sitters who understand their needs.
Be sure to explain their habits, feeding times, walking schedules and any medical treatments they may need.
Do not forget to specify the species, breeds and number of animals you would like the house sitters to care for.

6. Your animals' "quirks" and behavioural issues

Do not hide any behavioural issues or difficult habits your animals may have. Explain how you usually manage them.
Also describe their night-time routines:
Does the dog need to be taken out at night? Are your animals afraid of thunderstorms? Do they sleep in your bedroom? And so on.
Sharing these details will help house sitters prepare for different situations and care for your animals in a way that respects their usual routines.

Be specific about the household tasks you expect house sitters to carry out, such as:
Watering indoor plants
Maintaining the swimming pool
Mowing the lawn
Looking after the garden
Setting the alarm when leaving the house, etc.
Do not ask house sitters to do things that you would not normally do yourself.
For example, if you usually walk your dog only once a day, do not expect the house sitter to take it out more often.
Similarly, do not ask them to carry out household tasks beyond normal day-to-day upkeep.
Clear and reasonable expectations help make the stay a positive experience for everyone.

Present your home in the best possible light, while remaining honest and mentioning any drawbacks.

8. Internet access

Some house sitters may work online or rely on the internet for their daily activities. If your connection is slow, frequently interrupted or unreliable, be sure to mention this in your listing.

9. Comfort and condition

Describe the comfort and condition of your home accurately, highlighting its strengths without exaggerating.
For example, mention if renovation work is underway, if you have recently moved in and some things are not yet finished, or if any equipment is faulty.

Equipment and facilities that seem familiar to you may be unfamiliar to some house sitters.
Be sure to explain anything that requires special knowledge or regular attention.
Examples include a wood-burning heating system that needs daily attention, swimming pool maintenance or the use of a security alarm.

11. Physical requirements

Describe the layout of your home clearly, as some house sitters may have difficulty with certain physical requirements.
For example, your home may have several floors, only a bathtub rather than a shower, or be located at the bottom of a steep or extensive property. Looking after your animals may also involve considerable physical effort.

12. Cleanliness and tidiness

If you are particular about cleanliness and tidiness, explain your expectations clearly so that you can find house sitters who are comfortable with them.
Conversely, if you have a relaxed approach to tidiness and it is not a priority for you, make that clear too.

13. Air quality and smoking

If your home has damp or mould problems, mention them, as they may cause difficulties for people with allergies or sensitivities.
If you are happy to accommodate smokers, make your conditions clear:
- You may allow smoking indoors.
- Alternatively, smoking may only be permitted outdoors.

14. Local amenities

Describe your neighbourhood clearly, including the distance to everyday shops, restaurants, cinemas and other amenities.
Mention nearby public transport options.
Also provide information about healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and pharmacies, and the location of your veterinarian.

15. Noise levels

You may be so used to the sounds in your neighbourhood that you barely notice them, but they could disturb your house sitters.
Examples include a barking dog, a rooster crowing every morning, church bells or noisy neighbours.
Be sure to mention anything that could be considered a source of noise nuisance.

16. Safety and security

If there are safety or security concerns in your country, city or local area, explain any relevant risks to your house sitters.
Tell them about places they may wish to avoid and, where appropriate, recommend places worth visiting.
If your home has a video surveillance system, mention it in advance to avoid any misunderstandings.

17. Seasons and climate

If you offer a stay at any time of year, explain the weather conditions house sitters can typically expect during their stay.
Examples include high temperatures, drought, storms, extreme cold or a rainy season.
If you live in a tourist area and the stay falls during the busy season, explain what visitors can expect in terms of local activities and services.
Conversely, if the stay takes place during the off-season, mention that some businesses may be closed and activities may be limited.

18. Parasites and pests

Make sure your animals receive appropriate flea and tick prevention, as bites can be unpleasant for house sitters.
If you live in a country or region where cockroaches, scorpions, rats or snakes are common, do not hide this information. Some house sitters may be uncomfortable around these animals, and this could affect their experience of the stay.

Highlight what makes your home and your animals special.
However, always be honest and avoid making things sound better than they really are.
By providing an accurate description and being clear about your expectations, you will have a better chance of finding house sitters who suit your needs and of making the experience a positive one for you, your animals and your house sitters.