How to Be the Perfect House Sitter or Swapper

The Basics of House Sitting and House Swapping

Before signing on as a house sitter, clarify that you actually want to live at the residence rather than dropping by occasionally to take care of things. This works best for homeowners who have pets and do not like the idea of kennelling them, or for home owners who are concerned about being burgled while they are away (i.e. rich folk).

Make sure you and the homeowner are on the same wavelength about what is required from you. Many will ask for references and background checks, so have this information handy.

Most homeowners expect you to pay the utilities used in their absence, and others will request that you do not use their Internet, phone and other services. Some will ask for a security deposit, or you can offer one up front as proof that you’re a legitimate sitter. It is imperative you ask about these issues beforehand, otherwise you may get stuck with some heavy bills.

House swapping, on the other hand, works more on a trust basis: since both parties are exchanging their homes, usually there is a lot of communication before the exchange takes place. There are normally some phone calls, photograph exchanges, and lots of emails.

Also, homeowners don’t need to exchange homes at the same time: often a vacation home is being exchanged, so dates do not need to coordinate.