Paid Vs Unpaid Sitters

A trend has emerged where a growing number of people seeking house sitting jobs in New Zealand brand themselves as ‘professionals’ and subsequently they take it upon themselves to charge a fee, implying that these are markers of reliability and expertise.

This is a fiction. Professionalism is an attitude not a label, and fees have zero correlation to quality of service, because many unpaid (aka voluntary) house sitters bring the same level of professionalism, if not more, to their roles. They choose to house sit not to line their own pockets with easy money but for the lifestyle benefits, the joy of looking after a variety of pets, and exploring different parts of the country.

For these volunteer sitters, their reward comes in the form of rent-free accommodation, free access to the utilities, fresh fruit and vegetables from the garden, and a regular change of scenery. Here’s why volunteer Kiwi house sitters can offer just as much dedication as those who charge, and why adding fees to the mix can seem, to many, a bit cheeky.

1. Passion-Driven Commitment Over Payment

Voluntary house sitters in NZ aren’t in it for the money. They’re motivated by the unique lifestyle that house sitting offers. For them, the ‘payment’ is the rent-free accommodation, the freedom to explore new places, and the satisfaction of helping others. Many view these perks as more than sufficient compensation, making the act of charging on top of them feel unnecessary, if not bold. This passion-driven commitment often translates into a high level of reliability and enthusiasm, as unpaid sitters take on each assignment out of genuine interest, not for financial gain.

2. Reliability Without The Price Tag

While some paid New Zealand house sitters market themselves as ‘professionals’, an unpaid sitter’s choice to forego fees doesn’t diminish their reliability. In fact, their commitment often speaks to a level of personal responsibility and genuine enjoyment that paid sitters may lack. By choosing assignments carefully, unpaid sitters can afford to be selective, taking on only those opportunities that align with their interests and abilities. This careful selection process can make them just as dependable, if not more so, than paid sitters who are juggling multiple obligations.

3. Happy With The Lifestyle And Perks

Voluntary house sitters often view the arrangement as a mutually beneficial exchange. They gladly accept the perks of rent-free living, free access to utilities, and a garden’s bounty of fresh fruit and vegetables, recognising these as substantial forms of compensation. The opportunity to stay in comfortable surroundings without paying rent or utilities is a reward unto itself. For these sitters (myself included), the idea of charging fees on top of all these benefits seems a bit of a cheek, as they believe their lifestyle needs are well met by the existing arrangement.

4. Personalised And Thoughtful Care

Unpaid house sitters are often motivated to go above and beyond for the animals and homes they care for. With fewer financial motives, they can focus on creating a nurturing environment for pets and tending to the home’s unique needs. Their commitment often stems from a genuine desire to make both the homeowner and the pets feel comfortable and cared for. This personalised touch, unrestricted by time sheets or fee-based services, means that unpaid sitters often provide attentive, thoughtful care that speaks to their passion for the role.

5. Flexibility And Enthusiasm

Voluntary sitters tend to bring a flexible, can-do attitude to each assignment, seeing every task as an enjoyable aspect of their stay. They’re generally open to learning new skills, from maintaining a vegetable garden to administering specific pet care routines. Since they’re already benefiting from rent-free accommodations and utilities, they’re usually willing to embrace household responsibilities, enhancing the homeowner’s peace of mind.

6. A Transparent And Straightforward Arrangement

Unpaid NZ house sitters embrace the simplicity of a fee-free arrangement, which allows for a clear, transparent exchange. With no added charges, homeowners and sitters can set mutual expectations, knowing that both parties are receiving fair benefits. The sitters appreciate the trust placed in them and typically work hard to uphold it, grateful for the opportunity to experience a new lifestyle without the added cost of living expenses.

Summary

While some New Zealand house sitters feel justified charging on top of the benefits they receive, unpaid sitters often find the rewards of rent-free accommodation, utilities, and garden access to be more than enough. They bring a high level of care, respect, and dedication to each assignment, motivated by passion and a genuine appreciation for the lifestyle. For homeowners, a voluntary sitter who values this exchange can provide the same professionalism as paid sitters – without any added fees. It’s clear that unpaid sitters can offer homeowners a dependable, caring service driven by gratitude rather than money, resulting in a truly rewarding arrangement for all involved.