There is an element of uncertainty when you go on vacation and leave your house empty for a week or two. You never know what can happen and don’t want to come home to any surprises. This is why some people hire a house sitter when they go on vacation.
Having a house sitter offers homeowners peace of mind knowing that someone is watching over their home. It’s a great option if you are taking an extended vacation, have pets, or just want someone to be in the house while you’re away.
Safety First
We’ve all seen the Christmas classic Home Alone where two burglars target people’s empty homes during the holidays. Thanks to one brave little boy, those burglars weren’t able to steal anything from his house because, well, you know the story.
When lights are turned on and off and it looks like someone is living in your house, it deters criminals from breaking in. Having a house sitter living in your house provides a safety element that light timers do not.
Along with guarding your home from crime, a house sitter is also able to let you know if there are any emergencies. This may include a pipe bursting, flooding after a heavy rainfall, or more. It’s better to have these problems dealt with immediately rather than waiting to find it when you come home.
Watch Your Pets
If you have pets, you know just how expensive it can be to put them up in a kennel while you are away. A house sitter will take care of your pets and keep their same routine so they feel comfortable and safe while you are away. Not only will you save money, but your pet will also be thankful that they get to stay in a familiar place.
Routine Maintenance
Not only does a house sitter watch your home, but they will also perform routine maintenance. This can include picking up and sorting through your mail, accepting packages that are delivered, light cleaning, and watering your plants. Nobody likes to come home to dead plants after a nice vacation. With a house sitter, it will feel like you never even left your home because everything will be up to date.
Peace of Mind
One of the biggest reasons people hire a house sitter when they go on vacation is for the peace of mind. Knowing that someone is watching over your home while you are away can help you to relax while on your much-needed vacation. If anything goes wrong, you will know immediately and won’t have to wait until you get home.
How to Find a Good House Sitter
Finding a good house sitter can be a hefty task. You don’t want just anyone living in your home for a week when you aren’t there. There are multiple professional websites and agencies that offer house sitting services. You can interview these house sitters until you find one you are comfortable with. You can also ask friends and family if they would watch your home too.
Don’t be afraid to set up some ground rules for your house sitter. You can even write up an agreement documenting what can and cannot be done in your home while you are away to protect yourself and your home.
About Agent Lady: Cherise Wynne is a leading real estate agent in Philadelphia, helping home buyers and sellers navigate the City of Brotherly Love, with a special focus on first time home buyers. To chat about getting started with your first time home buying experience, call 215-518-5193 or click here.
