Ready to start house sitting? If so, it is time to create a profile with Trusted House Sitters now.
Below we have our top tips to get started on the platform (and landing your first sit!)
The steps below will ensure you secure your dream house-sitting job in no time.
Table of Contents
Sign Up to the Site
The first and most obvious step is to sign up to Trusted House Sitters. This should be done as soon as you are ready to embark on your house-sitting journey.
Many end up overthinking and wonder if housesitting is unattainable However, starting can be as simple as creating your profile.
You only have to follow the right steps to ensure you secure the best jobs after that. With a small annual membership fee, you will be able to access house sitting assignments and apply for them.
Your Profile Is Your Resume
It is important to be extremely thorough when making your profile on the platform. Treating it like your resume is your best bet. Also, include accomplishments or skills relevant to the house sitting
Some things you could include if applicable to you;
Completion of the first aid for animals certificate
Pool maintenance experience
Passion for gardening
Experience with certain breeds/ animals
Make sure you add anything that you think is relevant
Once you start house sitting and gaining experience and skills, you should update your house sitting profile regularly to reflect this.
How to Add References (When You’re Starting Out)
Just like a job, homeowners want to see experiences and references.
That can be tough when you’re starting out. There are a few things you do!
There is a feature on Trusted House Sitters that lets you add external references. If you have some this is perfect to add!
I have created a video to show you how to do this; https://www.loom.com/share/f53d9f289d9c4ee38efd39de73213c1f
You can also collate all your references in a Canva or Google doc. Then when you apply for sit include the link in your application.
Once you have you completed a house sit make sure you always follow up for a review.
Add in Photos
One of the pros of Trusted House Sitter is that your able to upload up to twelve photos to your Trusted House Sitters profile These are meant to help you stand out and connect with owners.
Upload at least 2 photos that show you being friendly, smiling, and approachable. You may also add photos of your hobbies or people that you regularly sit for.
If you plan to apply for assignments with pets you should also upload photos with pets if you have some.
Include a Video in Your Application
When applying for a house sit you could include a short video
Using a program like Loom you can record why you think you are a good applicant
Make sure you point out how your experience and skills would work for them.
Loom gives you a link and can include it in your application.
Let Your Personality Shine Through
It is essential to allow your personality to shine through in your profile.
But, while keeping your professional image intact.
Homeowners like to get a feel of potential house sitters prior to an assignment.
Allow them to know your character before staying in their home for an extended period.
Personality in your profile includes displaying your hobbies, passions, and interest in housesitting.
You can also offer to Skype homeowners’ at any time they wish. This will let you seem transparent to them and showcase your personality.
Flexibility Is Key
Be sure to adjust to the needs of the owner when landing your first house-sitting job online.
Adjusting your plans to compromise with the owners’ dates can increase your appeal.
Be flexible at the start of your house-sitting career for an outstanding track record.
This can make it much easier to find house-sitting jobs in your desired locations later down the line due
Completing a Background Check
Completing a background or police check on the site ensures trust. This can set you apart from other house sitters.
You can apply for a free TrustedHousesitters background check if you’re based in the US.
You may also apply for free ID verifications for extra trust and reassurance.
The process of completing your police check is completely secure and confidential.
Be rest assured that your details will be safe and private, without being shared with anyone.
The badge on your profile will put you in the spotlight for potential house-sitting jobs. The sits that you get accepted and invited for may also skyrocket.
Include References
Seeing people with five-star reviews on the site can make you feel inferior.
However, the platform allows references to be emailed in.
Use this feature by getting people you have house sat for to email the reasons that make you fit for house sitting.
This can put you on par with members that have been using the site for a while and already have amazing reviews.
Take Action Quick
Assignments tend to get filled within the first 24 hours.
Homeowners are unlikely to keep looking through applications once they’ve found “the one”.
Only members of the site can see listings for the first 24 hours, so you are already in the lead.
However, you can further increase your chances by taking action quickly.
Send your application through and get in touch with owners swiftly.
You can do this by keeping up to date with the daily email of new job offers.
Dive Right Into It
After doing all the steps mentioned above, it is time to dive right into the application process.
Make sure to write the best application letters that address your strengths.
Also include why you are the perfect candidate for the job.
This step may be very daunting at first, especially when met with failure.
However, you will never know if you never try.
You may enjoy caring for homes and pets in the best locations in the world with luck and the right attitude.
Ditch the Formality
Be certain to show your personality and friendliness in applications.
Cracking a joke or including something funny can be a good way to break the ice.
This will lay a foundation for a conversation and help homeowners warm up to you.
However, it is important to remain courteous and professional at all times.
Communication Is Essential
Clear communication with a house owner that has accepted your application is essential.
Speaking face to face before the assignment can be the best way to get a feel of the owners’ expectations.
This can also let you see the home before you arrive.
Be sure to ask relevant questions. Also, have your questions answered to ensure things are clear from both parties.
This can make your house-sitting experience less stressful. You may also mitigate the chances of anything going wrong.
The application process of becoming a house sitter can be stressful.
This is especially when applications are rejected or overlooked.
However, remember that failure is part of the learning curve.
Follow the tips mentioned above to build your profile and craft your applications.
Soon, you can be on the pathway to securing a house sit in the perfect house.
I will.
Author: Britt
I am Britt I have been house sitting and pet sitting for the past 7 years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats 1 turtle, and 1 rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.
The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Through house sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters, and Trusted House Sitters, I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters. This unique way of living has not only allowed me to save money on accommodation but also offered a plethora of cultural exchange opportunities.
Being a member of these platforms has not only broadened my horizons but also opened doors to short and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well maintained.
I get many questions about how to get start as a house sitters, so if you have any questions please reach out! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!
You can read more about about Jay and me here!
Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house sitting community on Facebook
