They’re homes away from home, and although house-sits come with a few duties, these are seldom arduous. That’s why Kate and Peter’s story, which we’re bringing you today, may have you thinking seriously about house-sitting as an attractive retirement option. Let’s hear what this adventurous couple have to say about the house-sitting life style they’ve now enthusiastically embraced for over 4 years:
Peter
Our children (we have 4) are spread around new Zealand and the world. We like to visit them, but not necessarily stay with them in their busy homes which can seem not-so-restful at times. We’ve had several great house sits which have either been in the same town or city the kids are living in, or just a stone’s through away. By arrangement with our home owners, we’ve also been able to have the grandchildren come for overnight stays.
Kate
Some friends ask how we can afford to travel overseas so often, house sitting makes it possible. Through a property manager, we rent out our own property while we’re travelling, which covers all our expenses such as rates, insurance, maintenance, and even our flights. When we’re house sitting, our only costs are food and travel insurance.
Peter
If we have major work to be done to our home, we look for a house sit in our own city. It means we can be out of the way of builders but still close enough to pop by and see how work is progressing.
Kate
I’ve used house sits as a wonderful way to reconnect with old friends. Sometimes they will be included in our house sit, and sometimes we’ll find a sit close to where they’re living.
Peter
In the early days of house-sitting (before we were on a retirement income), we would use house-sits as a way to save for travel. We’d find a sit in the same town we were working in, then settle in without having to pay for electricity or fuel. Often, where there was a garden, we’d be invited to help ourselves to the produce.
Kate
We’ve used house-sitting as a way to meet new people and extend friendship groups. We both enjoy walking so when we’re house-sitting in another part of the country or overseas, we always join in with the walking groups there. We’ll head to the pool for an exercise class, or sit in on a U3A lecture – there are always new things to do and new people to meet when you’re based in a house sit for several weeks.
Peter
House sits usually, but not always, come with pets to care for. After our last dog died, Kate and I made the decision not to continue with the responsibility of full time pets. But we still love animals, so we often choose our house-sitting opportunities based on the pets we’d most like to care for.
Kate
We’re not cold weather people but with house-sitting, we can follow the warmth around the country or the world. Sometimes, when I’m sitting in the sun in Thailand, and it’s blowing a freezing gale in Wellington, I can’t believe how lucky we are!
Peter
We’re a draw card for friends from NZ who want a destination to head for. They don’t usually stay with us, but we’re very likely to be the reason they head to Greece or Auz or wherever we’re based. It’s always good to see them and to have become familiar enough with our new surroundings to introduce them to a few special restaurants or scenic spots.
Kate
There are restrictions on how long we can be out of the country at any one time, and over a period of time (because we’re both on superannuation) but it’s not an issue for us because we’re just as happy house sitting in New Zealand as we are overseas.
Peter
House-sitting virtually full time really suits us, but I don’t think I’d like to do it if we didn’t have a home of our own to turn to in emergencies. Owning our own place gives us a sense of security which in turn, makes us more confident about doing what we do.
Kate
I’m trying to think of the downside of virtually full time house sitting, but it’s hard to find any negatives. It’s not until you experience it, you realise how affordable and freeing it can be.
Peter and Kate have used several house-sitting agencies over the years. These have include House Sitters and Kiwi House Sitters. Fees to join are modest compared to the advantages of being a member. Why not test drive this exciting concept and see if it’s the lifestyle you’re looking for!