Business Idea #26 - House Sitting

No money needed. Easy start-up idea.

January 22, 2025

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HOUSE SITTER

How to Start and Run a House Sitting Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you love caring for homes, enjoy flexible work, and want a low-cost way to earn money or travel, starting a house sitting business could be perfect for you. House sitting involves looking after someone’s home while they’re away, which may include basic upkeep, pet care, plant watering, and ensuring the property stays safe.

Here’s everything you need to know to launch and successfully run a house sitting business.

Step 1: Understand What House Sitting Involves

House sitting responsibilities can vary depending on the client. Some common tasks include:

  • Checking mail

  • Watering plants

  • Feeding pets and walking dogs

  • Taking out the trash

  • Keeping the house clean

  • Ensuring security (lights on/off, locking doors, etc.)

This service brings peace of mind to homeowners while they travel, and sometimes even includes free accommodations for you in return.

Step 2: Decide on Your Business Model

You can structure your house sitting business in a few different ways:

  • Local Services: Focus on clients in your area. This is ideal if you want to stay close to home and build a strong reputation.

  • Travel-Based Services: House sit as a way to travel, staying in homes across the country or world.

  • Pet-Focused Services: Combine house sitting with pet sitting for higher-paying gigs.

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This newsletter provides tons of business ideas and strategies for your life.

Our team has over 30 years of experience in starting and running successful businesses. If you have a start-up idea you would like some feedback on, send us a note at [email protected]. Tell us about it and we’ll let you know what we think.

Keep reading. You are bound to find something you want to do.
Michelle, Sophia & Seth. The Green Owl team.

Business ideas anyone can implement.