House Sitting NEW + TRENDING in 2024: Trust My Pet Sitter!

House Sitting NEW + TRENDING in 2024: Trust My Pet Sitter!

In this episode of Freedom and Four Paws, meet Angela Fagan founder of Trust My Pet Sitter. Tune in for an inspiring chat about what’s new in the world of house sitting. You’ll learn how to stand out from the crowd! And, discover a new platform that’s matching experienced house sitters with great global sits. 

 

 

New and trending: Trust My Pet Sitter

Welcome to a very special episode of Freedom and Four Paws, where we explore the fascinating world of house and pet sitting with a twist of adventure. In this episode, we’re thrilled to sit down with Angela Fagan, the pioneering founder of Trust My Pet Sitter (TMP).

Angela joins us to share her journey, the inception of TMP, and how her platform is reshaping the house and pet sitting landscape globally. Angela, with her profound experience in recruitment and investment in the house and pet sitting world, shares her journey to establishing TMP, driven by a passion to connect pet parents with the most reliable and caring pet sitters worldwide.

Delving into the mechanics of TMP, Angela explains the unique application and matching system designed to ensure a perfect fit between pet parents and sitters, highlighting the point of difference of their service and its emphasis on trust and communication. She shares expert advice on common flaws seen in pet sitting applications and offers actionable advice for aspiring candidates to stand out in 2024, emphasising the importance of professionalism, authenticity, and specific skills that make an application irresistible.

 

How to Get Ahead in the House Sitting Game

Angela also sheds light on emerging trends in the house-sitting industry for 2024, advising our audience on how to adapt and position yourselves advantageously. With TMP’s boutique approach to house sit matching, she outlines the core criteria for sitters looking to join her elite lineup, stressing experience, dedication, and a genuine love for animals.

By the episode’s end, you will not only discover a brand-new house-sitting option that could revolutionise your travel and pet sitting experience but also learn the top actions to take now to get noticed for the world’s best sits.

 

Click here to subscribe on your favourite podcast service

 

Freedom and Four Paws

Join us on our podcasting adventures as we hear inspiring stories from amazing people like Angela. They’re creating awesome businesses, meeting great pets, and living their best life!

More advice from other Freedom and Four Paws guests: How to travel with your own pet! And how to house sit as a family :)

Subscribe now and never miss an episode featuring excellent tips on how to slow travel, successfully work remotely or as a digital nomad, and house + pet sit. We’re on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google podcasts or your favourite podcasting app. Search ‘Freedom and Four Paws’

Freedom and Four Paws is brought to you by Travel Live Learn.com.

As a valued audience member, enjoy 10% OFF at our affiliate partner Cloudy – relieve stress throughout the day straight to a soothing sleep at night, visit trycloudy.com and use the code FREEDOM10.

And if you’re a fellow traveller and pet lover who is keen to share your story and inspire the world, visit exhalemediagroup.com and mention FREEDOM20 for 20% OFF any purchased service including personalised storytelling coaching.

WATCH: Find out more about house sitting while you travel, view the playlist on YouTube

SUBSCRIBE: on YouTube for more adventures youtube.com/travellivelearn

 

House sitting tips – how to become a PAID house sitter [2024 guide!]

House sitting tips – how to become a PAID house sitter [2024 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 – 2024 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: 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 neighborhood.

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 professionalizing your house sitting services. Research is key here. Understand what other house sitters in your area are charging and set competitive rates. As of 2024, here’s a little insight into the current House Sitting Rates 2024:

  • In major UK cities like London, rates range from £50 to £60 per night.
  • For a professional house sitting service, the basic daily rate is around £60, increasing to £70 for shorter assignments.
  • The minimum cost for hiring a homesitter through a professional service can be upwards of £80.40 per day.

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 traveling, 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 2024. 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 2024, 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 2024, 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 2024. 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 2024, 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.

 

 

 

 

Travel FAQ 2024 – nomad and house sitting questions you want answers to!

Travel FAQ 2024 – nomad and house sitting questions you want answers to!

We surveyed our 20,000 strong community and here are the top 6 nomad and house sitting questions you want answers to now!

Welcome back to Travel Live Learn and happy new-podcast-day! Yay! After a bit of a hiatus while we settled in after our big move from Australia to the UK – puppy in tow – we’re excited to share a brand new episode of Freedom and Four Paws.

Over the past couple of months, we’ve surveyed our popular nomad and house sitting Facebook Group, and have garnered insight into 6 BIG questions on everyone’s minds. Given this insight, we have pulled together the questions and answers into a handy 30-minute ep!
 

Travel FAQ 2023-24 – 6 nomad and house sitting questions

In this episode hear responses to top-of-mind questions on:

  1. How and where to find house sits
  2. The way to keep your cool in the face of tricky travel and booking logistics
  3. Is AI useful for us as nomads and house sitters?
  4. Logistics for getting set up as a digital nomad or global remote worker
  5. How to find your tribe and stay motivated (some additional advice here on that if you need it)
  6. Who should get paid as a house sitter?

We recently published some similar content that received a lot of views and questions. The post was called 3 Big Questions House Sitters Are Asking. This podcast complements that information.
 

Show notes and resources

In this episode, we’re thrilled to share several helpful resources with you. First and foremost, you can sign up for our FREE 4-part email series, House Sitting 101. To secure your space, simply click here.

In addition, our YouTube channel is absolutely brimming with invaluable house sitting and digital nomad tips and tricks. To make sure you don’t miss out on any of these, you can subscribe here.

Furthermore, we also offer the House Sitting 101 Essentials Pack. This can significantly enhance your understanding and experience with house sitting. To get yours, just click here.

Last but not least, we’ve created an eBook entitled “7 Essential Strategies for Maximising Your Use of ChatGPT”. If you want to optimise your interactions with ChatGPT, you can get your copy here.

Click here to subscribe to Freedom and Four Paws on your favourite podcast service

 

Freedom and Four Paws

Join us on our podcasting adventures as we hear inspiring stories from amazing people traveling the world. They’re living their best life, often with their pets in tow!

More advice from Freedom and Four Paws: House Sitting in a Foreign Language Destination, and Slow Travel: 9 Years on the Road House Sitting

Subscribe now and never miss an episode featuring excellent tips on how to slow travel, successfully work remotely or as a digital nomad, and house + pet sit. We’re on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google podcasts or your favourite podcasting app. Search ‘Freedom and Four Paws’

As a valued audience member, enjoy 10% OFF at our affiliate partner Cloudy – relieve stress throughout the day straight to a soothing sleep at night, visit trycloudy.com and use the code FREEDOM10.

And if you’re a fellow traveller and pet lover who is keen to share your story and inspire the world, visit exhalemediagroup.com and mention FREEDOM20 for 20% OFF any purchased service including personalised storytelling coaching.

SIGN UP: TO TRUSTED HOUSE SITTERS HERE AND ENJOY 25% OFF! It’s on our VIP mailing list, including other freebies.

SUBSCRIBE: on YouTube for more adventures youtube.com/travellivelearn
 
 

3 BIG questions house sitters are asking [updated 2024!]

3 BIG questions house sitters are asking [updated 2024!]

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 questions that come in all the time from house and pet sitters are…

 

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.

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

 


 
 

5 ways to make the most of off grid travel + house sitting

5 ways to make the most of off grid travel + house sitting

Off grid house sitting and travel is becoming a popular way of life for many. Let’s face it, most of  us want to switch off from the craziness of the world today. Living off grid is also an opportunity to practice a more sustainable way of living. When we had the chance to chat to Annemarie – an Aussie based in South America and living this lifestyle, we jumped at the chance.

 

Off grid house sitting and travel – living the dream?

In this episode of Freedom and Four Paws, we meet Annemarie, an Australian who has been slow travelling through Central and South America for the past few years. Annemarie offers wonderful tales of travels and friends made along the way. And, she shares excellent advice on what it takes to survive and thrive living off the grid. 

If you’re wondering what the off-grid lifestyle looks like, Annemarie says it is a dream for her. BUT it’s probably not for everyone. That’s where house sitting is a great chance to dip your toes in to see if it is for you.

 

Getting into off-grid living

Annemarie’s initiation to off the grid living came about by chance.

A friend asked her to come to Costa Rica to help him set up an off the grid art eco events centre on his permaculture farm. Her off-grid experience there lasted seven months where she quickly learned what it takes to survive.

By definition, off-grid living usually means you’re relying on your own energy and water supplies. It also comes with nurturing your own food and learning to truly appreciate all living things around you. An attractive proposition for many of us!

To become accustomed to jungle life, like in Annemarie’s case, you need to be able to cope with isolation, be good with your hands, calm and adaptable.

“You are off grid. There’s no shop, there’s no letter box, there isn’t anything,” explains Annemarie.

Find out more by watching her interview – click to play above

 

 

How to find house sits while travelling off-grid

Annemarie uses TrustedHousesitters, but like some of our other Freedom and Four Paws guests including Nicky who travels with her dog, and this family of four house sitters, has also built a reputation and now has people contacting her for sits.

Annemarie shares that it’s important to continue to develop and foster relationships with locals where you live too – often leads come in that way.

Additionally, join community groups in your area, on and offline. Let people know what you do – tell them you do house sitting and people will soon reach out to you. “House sitters are in demand everywhere,” Annemarie tells us.

 

Annemarie’s top house sitting and off-grid travel tips

Anne Marie’s biggest tip to finding work and getting involved in the community is through WhatsApp.

She tells us that in many countries, including South and Central America, many businesses don’t have a website, they utilise WhatsApp

A few key ways to finding work on the road: 

  • Join community groups in the region – network and get to know people
  • Groups (including online like Facebook, or offline in networks) are the best way to find out anything
  • Tell people what you do – you can’t sell a secret
  • Engage, develop relationships and opportunities open up!

 

Click here to subscribe to Freedom and Four Paws on your favourite podcast service

 

Freedom and Four Paws

Join us on our podcasting adventures as we hear inspiring stories from amazing people traveling the world. They’re living their best life, often with their pets in tow!

More advice from Freedom and Four Paws: House Sitting in a Foreign Language Destination, and Slow Travel: 9 Years on the Road House Sitting

 

Subscribe now and never miss an episode featuring excellent tips on how to slow travel, successfully work remotely or as a digital nomad, and house + pet sit. We’re on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google podcasts or your favourite podcasting app. Search ‘Freedom and Four Paws’

Freedom and Four Paws is brought to you by Travel Live Learn.com.

As a valued audience member, enjoy 10% OFF at our affiliate partner Cloudy – relieve stress throughout the day straight to a soothing sleep at night, visit trycloudy.com and use the code FREEDOM10.

And if you’re a fellow traveller and pet lover who is keen to share your story and inspire the world, visit exhalemediagroup.com and mention FREEDOM20 for 20% OFF any purchased service including personalised storytelling coaching.

WATCH: Find out more about house sitting while you travel, view the playlist on YouTube

SIGN UP: TO TRUSTED HOUSE SITTERS HERE AND ENJOY 25% OFF! It’s on our VIP mailing list, including other freebies.

SUBSCRIBE: on YouTube for more adventures youtube.com/travellivelearn