House Sitting Full Time

Full-time house sitting in New Zealand offers a unique lifestyle that is filled with travel, freedom, and reduced living expenses. It’s a dream for many who want to explore new corners of the country without the cost of accommodation. But, as with any lifestyle, there are both rewards and challenges. This post looks at the pros and cons of full-time house sitting in order to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.

The Pros Of Full-Time House Sitting

1. Reduced Living Expenses

One of the most significant benefits of having full-time house sitting jobs in NZ is the opportunity to cut down on rent and utility costs. By staying in someone else’s home, you can often eliminate or greatly reduce expenses associated with traditional housing. Many Kiwi house sitters report saving hundreds, even thousands, per month on rent alone. This can allow for more flexible budgeting and a chance to save money.

2. The Freedom To Travel

House sitters in New Zealand get to travel while having a comfortable place to stay, often in beautiful locations. For those who crave adventure, it’s a perfect way to see new localities, towns, and cities. You might stay in a countryside cottage in the Bay of Plenty one month and a beach house in Nelson the next, all without the typical costs associated with hotels or Airbnb.

3. The Company Of Pets

If you’re an animal lover, full-time house sitting often involves pet care. You get to enjoy the companionship of pets without the long-term responsibility of owning them. Spending time with a variety of animals like dogs, cats, and even farm animals can be a rewarding part of house sitting, especially if you miss having pets yourself.

4. Flexibility And Variety

House sitting full-time allows for greater flexibility and variety in your daily life. Each new home and community brings fresh experiences, from local attractions to neighborhood cafes. It’s ideal for people who thrive on change and new environments. Some NZ house sitters structure their schedule around seasonal opportunities, like summer house sits in coastal areas or winter gigs in the snow.

5. A Minimalist, Nomadic Lifestyle

If you’re drawn to minimalism or the nomadic lifestyle, house sitting can provide a chance to simplify your belongings and focus on experiences over material things. It’s a lifestyle that encourages you to live with only what you truly need. Many full-time house sitters in NZ pack everything they need in a few bags, focusing on versatility and portability rather than owning a home full of items.

The Cons Of Full-Time House Sitting

1. Lack Of Stability And Routine

Without a permanent home base, full-time New Zealand house sitters may struggle with a lack of stability and routine. Moving from one house to another can make it challenging to establish daily routines, a social network, or a sense of “home. Some house sitters find it hard to keep up with routines like exercise, cooking, or hobbies when they’re constantly adjusting to a new environment.

2. Uncertainty Between Assignments

Unlike renting, house sitting doesn’t always guarantee back-to-back assignments. Full-time house sitters may find gaps in their schedule, leading to uncertainty and potential costs for temporary accommodation. If you don’t have a sit lined up immediately after your current one, you may need to cover short-term accommodation costs, which can disrupt budgeting.

3. Increased Responsibility

House sitters will be required to take on someone else’s responsibilities, which can sometimes be demanding, especially when pets are involved. You may have duties like pet care, yard maintenance, or security checks, and these responsibilities can restrict your freedom. If the house comes with pets, you may need to work around feeding schedules, daily walks, or vet visits, which can limit your flexibility to explore the area.

4. Need For A Reliable Internet Connection

For remote workers or digital nomads, a reliable internet connection is essential. While many homeowners have internet access, not all connections are reliable, especially in rural locations, which can make working difficult. Freelance professionals might find themselves in a bind if they arrive at a sit with slow or unreliable internet. Researching connectivity before committing to a sit is often necessary.

5. Living In Another’s Space

Full-time house sitting means living in someone else’s space, which may limit how much you can personalise or change your surroundings. Some people find it challenging to fully relax or feel comfortable in a home that isn’t theirs. You may find that personal touches, like adjusting décor or even using certain amenities, are off-limits in some homes. This lack of personal space can be a drawback for those who value comfort and customisation.

Tips For Success As A Full-Time House Sitter

If you’re drawn to the full-time house sitting lifestyle despite the challenges, here are some tips to help you make the most of it.

1. Plan Ahead And Stay Flexible:

To avoid gaps, try to line up house sits well in advance. Having flexibility with dates and locations also helps you land more assignments.

2. Build A Solid Profile And Network:

Positive reviews and references go a long way in securing continuous gigs. Being part of house sitting networks or forums can help you find more opportunities.

3. Pack Smart

Since you’ll be moving around, keep your belongings minimal and versatile. Focus on essential items like clothing, toiletries, and electronics, and avoid accumulating extra things.

4. Keep Open Communication With Homeowners

Building trust with homeowners by communicating regularly and following their instructions closely helps develop lasting relationships between them and their house sitters. Repeat sits are often possible if homeowners know they can count on you.

5. Stay Organised And Keep Records

Keeping track of dates, locations, and duties for each sit helps you stay organised and ensures you meet all expectations.

Is Full-Time House Sitting Right For You?

Full-time house sitters are rewarded with an awesome yet unconventional lifestyle, one that’s well-suited to people who are flexible, adaptable, and comfortable with a minimalist, nomadic way of life. While there are unique perks, like financial savings and the freedom to travel, there are also challenges, like limited stability and increased responsibility.

For those who love the idea of experiencing different homes, bonding with pets, and exploring new communities, house sitting full-time can be an ideal lifestyle. If you value consistency and a home base, however, you might prefer house sitting part-time to enjoy the benefits without the sacrifices. Ultimately, weighing the pros and cons will help you decide if full-time house sitting aligns with your personal goals and lifestyle.