House Sitting in Australia: A Guide for First-Time House Sitters
I started house sitting in Australia in 2013. Initially, I pursued house sitting due to my frustrations with rent payments and the challenges of saving for a mortgage down payment. House sitting became a dual solution for me; not only did it eliminate rent and utility bills, allowing me to save money, but it also provided the opportunity to explore diverse locations. This led me to live rent-free for a decade across Australia, Europe, and Asia, ultimately enabling me to purchase a home outright in the EU. You may find it hard to believe that I accomplished this without wealth or a trust fund, but my journey through house sitting made it possible.
Interestingly, Australia wasn’t my first choice for house sitting. My original plan involved house sitting in Germany for six months to improve my German language skills and find employment. However, after not securing that position, I thought outside the box and began applying for house sits in Australia. Four weeks post-university graduation, I boarded a one-way flight to Australia, embarking on my first house sitting experience.
House Sitting for First-Time House Sitters
Reflecting on my experience, I believe Australia is an exceptional choice for novice house sitters, especially if English is your first language. The prevalence of English makes communication smoother. Additionally, Australia is well-equipped for backpackers with reliable and safe public transport options. While Australia may have its reputation for snakes and spiders, most house sits are located in urban areas where these creatures are effectively managed.
Another factor contributing to Australia’s appeal for house sitting is its cultural openness. Australians are generally welcoming and are accustomed to inviting strangers into their homes. I’ve personally experienced this warmth, even being welcomed by acquaintances of friends I hadn’t met in years. The extended vacations common among Australians also mean they often seek house sitters for longer durations, facilitating deeper connections with the local community.
Advice for House Sitting in Australia
Over a nine-month period of house sitting in Australia, I compiled insights I wish to share. These tips aim to assist both first-time and seasoned house sitters:
- Understand what house sitting entails and its advantages over alternatives like couch surfing.
- Familiarize yourself with the application processes typical of house sitting opportunities.
- Seek references from previous house sits, as they can significantly enhance your chances of securing a position.
- Consider obtaining a police check for peace of mind for homeowners.
- Craft a compelling cover letter that includes essential details about yourself.
- Engage in video calls with homeowners for a more personal connection before your arrival.
- Balance work and house sitting; it’s entirely feasible to manage both.
- Learn how to care for pets, including handling health issues, and address separation anxiety in animals.
Conclusion
My personal journey through house sitting in Australia showcased its numerous benefits and the sense of community it fosters. The experience not only allowed me to travel extensively but also provided me with the financial means to achieve long-term goals. House sitting can be a rewarding endeavor if approached with the right mindset.
For anyone considering this lifestyle, Australia is a fantastic place to start your adventure. Embrace the opportunity to live among locals, share experiences, and maybe even find yourself in a unique way of life.
