Doing Those Little Extras (Part 1)

When you’re house sitting in New Zealand, the basic expectations are straightforward: take care of the home, tend to any pets, and leave everything in the same condition you found it, if not better. However, the key to becoming a truly exceptional house sitter (and to securing a steady stream of future opportunities) lies in going above and beyond these basic duties. By doing those extra little things that might not be on the checklist, NZ house sitters can make a lasting impression on the homeowners, earn glowing references, and build a reputation that sets them apart from the crowd.

Why Go the Extra Mile?

1. Stand Out From The Competition

House sitting can be a competitive field, with homeowners often choosing between several candidates. By offering something special, such as tidying up neglected areas, cleaning windows, or tackling a few maintenance tasks like clearing the spouting, New Zealand house sitters can make themselves stand out. This attention to detail shows they genuinely care about the home and the homeowner’s peace of mind, and that they take pride in their work, setting them apart from those who stick strictly to the basic requirements.

2. Build Lasting Relationships

Homeowners are more likely to trust someone who exceeds their expectations. By doing more than the minimum, house sitters in New Zealand can create goodwill, making the homeowner more likely to call upon them for future assignments. This relationship-building can be particularly valuable if you’re aiming for long-term or recurring house sitting assignments. A small gesture, like leaving a welcome-home meal or fresh flowers or a box of chocolates, can make a homeowner feel truly appreciated and cared for, ensuring they’ll remember you next time they need help.

3. Secure Excellent References

When it comes to house sitting jobs in NZ, a good reference is golden. Homeowners are more likely to leave glowing feedback when they feel you’ve gone above and beyond. Excellent references don’t just state that you fulfilled your duties; they highlight how you went the extra mile. For example, cleaning the windows or leaving the home even tidier than when you arrived can be the kind of attention to detail that homeowners rave about to others.

Small Ways To Make A Big Impact

House sitters in NZ don’t need to go to extremes and spend hours going beyond what’s required, but thoughtful touches can make a significant difference. Here are just a few ideas:

1. Clean Windows Or Mirrors

A simple window clean can make a home feel fresh and well-maintained. Most homeowners won’t expect this, so it’s a small effort that makes a big difference. I always do some windows on my house sits. If it’s a short stay, I’ll just focus on the windows in the living area and kitchen. On longer stays I can find myself doing the whole house. I won’t do them all in one day, but instead I’ll spread out the job and do 2-3 windows each day. And I always make a point of sprucing up the mirrors, especially those in the bathroom.

2. Tidy The Garden Or Section

Even on short sits, if you notice the lawn is in need of a quick mow or there are leaves on the deck and footpath, taking a little time to spruce things up can be greatly appreciated.

3. Prepare A Welcome-Home Meal

After a long trip, the last thing most people want to do is cook. Consider preparing a simple meal for when they get home. And always make sure there is milk, bread, cereal, fruit, veges, snacks, and assorted groceries in the pantry and fridge for their return so that there’s enough for the next three meals. And a box of chocolates to thank the home owners for the stay is a thoughtful gesture that goes a long way.

4. Leave A Handwritten Note

A personal thank-you note for trusting you with their home and pets can go a long way toward building rapport. It’s also a chance to mention any little extras you did, such as restocking supplies or cleaning a few areas.

5. Clear The Gutter Or Spouting

If you notice that the spouting is full of leaves or debris, clearing it can prevent future damage to the home. It’s not something homeowners expect from Kiwi house sitters, but it can save them trouble down the line, and they’ll appreciate your proactive approach.

The Long-Term Benefits Of Doing More

By going beyond the minimum, you increase your chances of repeat bookings, recommendations, and great reviews. Homeowners who see you’ve invested that extra effort will be far more inclined to book you again and tell their friends about you. Over time, these small gestures can create a steady stream of work, higher pay rates, and even the opportunity for more luxurious house sitting assignments in dream destinations.

In the end, house sitting isn’t just about keeping things ticking over while the homeowner is away. It’s an opportunity to show your professionalism, thoughtfulness, and commitment to providing exceptional service. By going the extra mile, you not only impress the homeowners but also set yourself up for success in the long run.

Final Thoughts

While house sitting often starts with the basics, going above and beyond can transform your experience into something far more rewarding. Homeowners are looking for people they can trust with their most valuable possessions: their home and pets. Show them that you care by doing those extra tasks that make their return a little easier and their home a little brighter. Not only will you feel good about your work, but you’ll also open the door to a world of opportunities in the house sitting community.

In short, aim to be the house sitter that homeowners can’t wait to rebook!