Captain Dapper wants you to get away ... and find some free house sitting while you're gone.
Going away on a vacation can be stressful. If you have pets, finding someone you trust to stay with them can seem totally daunting. And even without pets, the worry of leaving your home empty can take all the fun out of going away in the first place. Of course, you can hire a house or pet sitter but before you take that step, follow this advice for getting free house sitting.
1. Ask a friend who works from home. I've been working from home for the past three years so I love any opportunity for a change of scenery. When my friend put out a call for a house sitter, I volunteered right away. This gives me a new place to work during the day and gives her piece of mind that someone is hanging out with her kitty and keeping her home safe and sound.
2. Use your home's amenities to tempt a potential house sitter. My friend's "house" is actually a condo in a lakefront high rise with underground parking, a swimming pool and a gym. All she had to do was dangle these perks in front of me and, like a dog with a treat, I was practically begging to stay here.
3. Offer a house sitter free food and beverage. They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. The same can be said for house sitters. Offering full use of a stocked fridge and mini-bar may net you a free house sitter.
4. Ask your out of town friends if they'd like a mini vacation. If you live in a major city, you may have a friend who would be willing to stay in your home just for the vacation. The same can be said if you're in the suburbs or country - one of your city friend might enjoy the break from city life.
5. Appeal to friend and family with roommates. If you have a younger sibling who shares an apartment with roommates, they may be willing to house sit for the peace and quiet of living alone. This also works for friends with spouses and those who still live with their parents.
Of course, you'll want to choose your house sitter wisely. That friend who always loses his keys or seems to be perpetually surrounded by drama may not be the best house sitter. Stick with friends you know to be reliable and trustworthy.
Image: Jason Loper
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