Sitter found for wonderful views of Mount Maunganui - Tauranga, Bay of Plenty New Zealand

Most impressed with quality of applicants. Everybody was extremely professional. Delighted to have found this website and will certainly utilise this service again in the future. Sincere thanks... Freckles133

Housesit: Tauranga, Bay of Plenty New Zealand

We are looking for a house sitter from 6th to 28th March 2008. Free accommodation in beautiful home enjoying stunning gardens, in return for looking after our home and small dog (4 years old). Our home is 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen (all modern kitchen aids), office and large lounge. There are heat pumps either end of the house.

We have Sky TV, one in the lounge and the other in the master bedroom/ensuite. No work required in the gardens or lawns as we have a gardener who comes in to take care of both. So just sit back and enjoy the wonderful views of Mount Maunganui and the harbour entrance.

We live 8 kilometres from downtown Tauranga, and are 15 minutes from New Zealand’s best surf beach, Mount Maunganui. Tauranga offers lots to see and do including, arts, golf, gardens, fishing, walks and great dining.

Rotorua is an hour away and is famous for it’s geothermal environment, hot pools and geysers. Lots to see and do in Rotorua. There is also an excellent bus service into Tauranga that goes right past our home

Auckland NZ Homeowner keeps coming back

"A great website which has done us proud for finding someone to look after our home and pets last year and this.

Thank you very much for a great idea, a well done website and for the usefulness of your service. Keep up the good work."

Paul (paulbnz)


Housesit Auckland New Zeland:

Please note this is primarily for the dog sitting and not so much for the house sitting aspect. So this arrangement will only appeal to you if you are a true dog lover and are active and able to walk and play with our two dogs.

It would also be preferable if you were home most of the day. Our two dogs are whippets. They are medium sized who are very friendly, gentle, non aggressive and easy going. They are great company. But they are rather spoilt and very much indoor dogs who like their creature comforts, though they do also like their walks. They require daily exercise - usually a short walk in the morning and a long walk in the evening.

You must be clean living, non smoking and 100% reliable and MUST want to do this for our animals as the number one priority. You will need to take special care of our two dogs, take them for daily walks and give them plenty of attention.

Our house is a nice, comfortable bungalow in the Epsom/Royal Oak area with all mod cons. We have a pleasant, large, fenced and secure garden. We are close to an easy bus route into the city centre and about 20 minutes walk to Greenlane Clinical Centre. If you are interested or want to know more information please get in touch. We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you.

Accolades for sitter ResponsiblePlus

I recently advertised on your web stie for a housesitter for the dec/jan, I got an immediate response .

I met Jan (ResponsiblePlus) for coffee and got to know a little more about each other , decided it would be a good deal for both of us .

Jan took me to the airport the day I left, she kept in touch with me while I was overseas, looked after my two cats and home. It was a great comfort to know my pets where being looked after at home and were in such good hands.

My apartment looked lovely , fresh fruit, flowers and was very clean, Thank you Jan for a marvellous job , I am very grateful to you. I would recommend you to anyone who req'd a very reliable housesitter.

Good luck with any further jobs I would be delighted to have you housesit for me again .Thank you to housesitters, I look forward to using your services again
... Chatham

Housesit: maribyrnong Western Melbourne VIC Australia

I would like a house sitter from 16.12.2007 till 13 january 2008 have 2 cats, apartment

Sitter Grace100 lines up Canadian housesits

So far I have been successful in arranging three housesits through the website. One in Ottawa south, one in Milton, and one in St. Adele, Quebec. I am presently negotiating for one in Toronto. It has worked very well for me, and thanks for providing this excellent service.

For the Ontario housesits I replied to an ad, for the Quebec housesit the homeowner contacting me directly. Eliabeth (Grace100)

View profile for sitter Grace100

Hilton Head Island, SC USA is my winter home for over three months - maryfromtheprairie

"Hilton Head Island, SC is my winter home for over three months solely because of joining Housecarers as a Gold Member.

My husband spotted the ad put in by these wonderful folks and next thing he knew I was asking for his password to his pay pal account so we could become members. That was August 12, 2007 and by mid September, we were 'chosen' in just one week by this charming couple who are travelling on the QE II for 90 days on her last 'Round the World Cruise'. We definitely made a connection!!!

We are from western Canada and they are from southeastern United States and this was the first housesit we officially applied for through Housecarers. References from both the northern and southern hemisphere solidified the agreement.

Thanks Ian for your wonderful service ... maryfromtheprairie

View profile for maryfromtheprairie

Feline Obesity, a Danger to Your Cat

The growing epidemic of obesity in the United States isn't restricted to the human population alone, an increasing number of house cats are now mirroring their owners indulgent behaviours.

Read Full article - Feline Obesity, a Danger to Your Cat

twodogsandme Says - Too Easy!

Hi,
Too easy! In very short time found a lovely lady who is looking forward to staying with my dogs and enjoying my property while I am away.

The only difficulty was making a choice from so many obviously suitable people.

Thanks for the great service! (twodogsandme)

2 months housesit Woodbridge Tasmania (south of Hobart )

I am planning to visit my daughter who is currently living in England – exciting, except that my two mates, Lora ( a Rhodesian Ridgeback X) and Hannah (a Staffy X) can’t come along… so am hoping to find someone to keep them company for May and June, 2008.

Our home is on 15 acres in a beautiful coastal rural region of southern Tasmania with Hobart about a 45 k drive away. There is a general store, Post Office and Petrol Station in Woodbridge which is 4k from house. The house is somewhat unconventional ( straw bale and post & beam construction), has solar power (with good efficient battery charger and generator as back up).

All mod cons and slow combustion wood heating so clean, warm and comfortable living. The main house has only one bedroom and some internal steps. Adjacent is a small cabin which is used as guest room (has own shower & toilet). There is plenty of parking if you travel with a motorhome, caravan, etc.

Sited for the magnificent views and sunshine in a quiet private area, it is a place to relax, walk, enjoy the wildlife and scenery…………...and play with the dogs! I do have a garden (newly established) and you would be welcome to potter about in it but no hard work is necessary or expected. There are some chickens, but they are very low maintenance… just need to top up the feed bin and water as required and collect eggs.

My main concerns are the dogs … they are both very friendly, reasonably well trained (eg: no begging for for food is allowed!) and easy to get along with. They are used to going most places with me ( even prefer to sit in the car for hours rather than stay home). Lora is 11.5 years old and Hannah 10, so relatively mature and don’t need lots of exercise … just pats and company.

They have several ‘aunties and uncles’ in the community who are happy to take them in if you wish to take some short overnight trips. I would also be happy for you to use my car to take dogs for outings to beach, etc. There is a strong sense of community in the district so you would quickly be welcomed by my friends if you wish to socialise with the locals.

I would appreciate hearing only from folk who are prepared to stay the whole period I am away, preferably arriving a little earlier so that I can familiarise you with “the workings”. So, if you feel you would enjoy a holiday here, I look forward to hearing from you. Please don’t hesitate to ask any questions.

Brisbank homeonwer: "It takes the headache out of going away! "

Hi there,

I wanted to let you know we found a suitable couple to look after our house within a day through your site. Actually, there were several who sounded suitable.

Thanks for providing such a good service. Within a day we had had more than ten responses. It takes the headache out of going away!

Cheers,

Suzanna (Skywards)

Housesit 4 weeks March 2008 Brisbane Qld

Our comfortable house has a veranda, swimming pool and wireless internet, plus a huge library of books. There is an indoor Burmese cat, who is very affectionate, and a low maintenance Siamese fighting fish. We are looking for a responsible single person or a couple to house-sit.

The 1 Hot Travel Destination of 2008? Says Who?

United States citizens hankering to travel abroad will be disappointed in the Lonely Planet's top pick for hot travel destinations for 2008.

Read entire story - No 1 Top Travel Desitnations 2008

Sitters ibujenny leave French Mid Pyrenees Home in perfect order

Thank you for your very professional website. Our housesitters
'ibujenny' were everything we could have wished for - friendly,
experienced and charming - our home was left in perfect order.
.... Homeowers (ecurie)


View profile for sitters ibujenny

Housesit details for ecurie:

5 week Housesit Lauraet Midi Pyrenees Gers France

Require reliable house sitter to feed and care for our two cats and look after our lovely home for five weeks early October/November 2008. Large comfortable stone house (fully equipped), wood, lake, stunning views, peaceful countryside, and warm climate. We have lived here for eleven years. Interesting historical sites and bastide villages nearby. Pyrenees and Atlantic coast 2 hours drive. Nearest town with shops, markets and supermarkets 12 minutes drive. Age

Travelling Overseas - what about Vaccinations?

Your passport and visa may be sorted? But what about Vaccinations for your overseas trip? It is advisable to start planning this 6 months before your intended trip.

Read more below:
Vaccinations required for International Travel

Travelling Overseas - what about Vaccinations?

Your passport and visa may be sorted? But what about Vaccinations for your oversease trip? It is advisable to start planning this 6 months before your intended trip.

Read more below:
Vaccinations required for International Travel

Housesitting in UK France and Italy

Just a note to let you know that we think your Forum is wonderful! We have been sitting full time for a year now in UK France and Italy and are on our second year. We have written a book titled "Endless Holidays - A Guide to House and Pet Sitting" which we will self publish in February. We would love to advertise it with you then.

So the Forum is another big plus for Housecarers which has been a very valuable site for us. We are booked out for the next year until we go home to Australia for a break and our daughtert's wedding in November 08.

Many thanks for a wonderful initiative.
Cheers Lynne and Mike ... House sitters edm0nds

View profile for sitters edm0nds

Housesitters Community Forum is Open for discussion

We are excited to launch the Housecarers Sitters Community Forum.
This new facility has been included in your house sitter membership.

The forum provides free information exchange between house sitters, worldwide. We are confident it will grow as a valuable resource,and support for
house sitters everywhere.


Suggest a Poll, Start a discussion (topic), Chat to other house sitters, Subscribe to topics, Share resources, Contribute, Teach, Learn, Share, Grow ... its all happening at House Sitters Community.

Click the New Topic Link within each Forum Category to start a discussion topic, or reply to topics already posted.


House Sitters Community Forum

Aussies failing to guard homes

The AAMI says 33 per cent of residents have experienced a break-in at some time.

Mr Hughes said leaving some lights on, arranging a house sitter or asking someone to collect your mail and keep an eye on your home were some basic security measures.


Read full article . Aussies failing to guard homes The Sydney Morning Herald

5 month cottage sit in Rural Roydon State Essex England filled - everyone happy

"hi just to let you know we have found suitable house sitters and are very happy with them. They seem ideal for us and keep in touch."
regards James & Jean ( rainbow7)

Housesit 5 months Roydon State Essex England
Hi, Would you be interested in house & dog sitting for us while we visit Perth, Australia from 27th November 2007 to 30th April 2008? James is English and Jean is an Australian. We enjoy summers in Perth Australia and in Roydon UK. Jack is an 8 year old collie/spaniel cross, absolutely adorable and very well trained. We would prefer the applicant to have experience with a dog and are not in full time employment. The cottage has 2 bedrooms, living/dining, kitchen & bathroom plus a conservatory. Broadband is available. Roydon is a rural village in the Essex area about 40 minutes from Liverpool Street Station, London. There are some beautiful walks nearby as well as a post office & shop, doctor, pharmacy, hairdresser, pubs etc. A bus stop is over the road from the cottage and train station a 10 minute walk away. Please email as soon as possible if this opportunity appeals to you. Kind regards James & Jean

The Perks of Housesitting

We're leaving our snowy climate (got about ten inches of snow since yesterday) in a couple of weeks to spend Christmas in sunny California and we won't have to spend a dime on accommodations! That's because we'll be housesitting for a family while they're away. We'll be caring for their two sweet dogs for the fourth time since we discovered the joys of housesitting....

Read rest of report from housesitter:
Lake Mary Musings: The Perks of Housesitting

xmasbreak finds sitter to mind German Shepherd - Tuggeranong Canberra ACT

We would like to advise that we have found somebody suitable to house-sit.

This was our first time using your service and we found the service and the site very easy to use. We will certainly recommmend it to friends and use it again ourselves. Thank you.

Many Thanks (xmasbreak)

Housesit Tuggeranong ACT
We are seeking a person or couple to look after our home and four year old German Short-haired pointer over Christmas, New Year period. Our home is located on the edge of Canberra backing reserve with rural outlook. We would prefer someone able to stay prior to our departure to help form a relationship with our dog. We would also be happy for you to stay on short term after our return if more suitable

Blandine Winters in Lumby, British Columbia Canada

"Just to let you know that throughout your web site i found a great house to stay this winter, until March in Lumby, British Columbia. I met the owners, Bill and Karen, and they are now gone. When time comes, I will renew my membership.

Thank you again for providing me with this great service. It was private, efficient and very professional.

House sitter profile for Blandine

caring_carer lines up the housesits in New Zealand and Australia

"This is great. I have two housesits, one in Auckland and one in Wellington. I have just applied for one in Queensland as well. The service is wonderful from your end. Thank you. Will let you know how it goes."
Regards Colleen (caring_carer)

promogirl4 finds the perfect match twice for her dog Shayna and Chicago home

I strongly believe in this site and this organization...twice now I have used housecarers.com and it has worked out great! My dog has gotten along with the sitters, and the house has been left in the same condition, if not better, than how it was before my travels.

I have to thank ajbeebster for sitting November 9-13, 2007 and TrustworthyCarers for sitting back over Memorial Day weekend...both families took great care of Shayna and my house and I thank you both. I know that if I ever go on vacation again, I can turn to one of you for future assistance.

Thanks again and everyone have a happy holiday season! (promogirl14) Chicago Illinois

How To remove dog urine stains from your carpet

Some good tips for homeowners and housesitters.

How To remove dog urine stains from your carpet

Christmas sitter found for southwest France, on the edge of the very pleasant and historic city of Angoulême France

"I had a very good housesiteer last summer, and found someone to look after house and jack russell over Christmas in about 3 hours! Brilliant service - I'm recommending it everywhere I can!" Oliver's Mum

Housesit details:

I live in southwest France, in the last street on the edge of the very pleasant and historic city of Angoulême. The house (small, 3 bedrooms) has a biggish garden front and back, mostly grass and fruit trees. Cross the road, and you have immediate access to miles and miles of open country with footpaths. I have one friendly Jack Russell, Oliver, and two cats whom you may not see much of except at mealtimes. the bus stops outside my gate to go into Angoulême centre, where there are all the shops you could possibly want, and there's a hypermarket 5 mins away by car. Angoulême is handy for visiting Cognac, la Rochelle, Poitiers, the Dordogne, etc., and has an equestrian centre, aquacentre, canoeing/kayaking, and just behind my house (where children would be welcome if they're dog- trained) there's a park with kids' games, attainable on foot and wihout going on the road. Oh, and I have both British and French TV! I had a housesitter in the summer and we were both very satisfied with the arrangement, and I am now looking for someone to live here for 10 - 12 days over Christmas/New Year while I visit my daughters and new granson in England

Answer to prayer allows sitter MgR5768ssanz to be close to family for 18 months

"Thank you so very much. Just contracted for my first assignment
through your service. This literally was an answer to prayer - AND -
I get to spend 18 months with my brother."

Again, thank you so very much for this service.

Great news. Thanks for the udpate. It is always good to hear
stories like yours. Where is the housesit? Ian

"San Antonio, Texas. Absolute perfect. Dad suffered congestive heart failure this past week. The house sit is 5 miles from his home. He is doing very well as of this writing. Very excited about this aspect. " Martha-Gail.. (MgR5768ssanz)

House sitters profile for MgR5768ssanz

8 week Charters Towers sit filled Rural getaway near Townsville North Queensland Australia

Hello to the House Carers

I would like to inform you that I have been able to acquire a suitable house sitter and would like to say many thanks to your wonderful service. I was very impressed with all the applicants and it made choosing relatively difficult.

Am I able to stay as a member or do I have to suspend my member ship?

Thanking You
Username: margarinef

HI Margarinef

Thanks very much for the feedback and update - much appreciated. You can certainly stay a member after suspending. Just login at any time to activate and post an update to your ad in the future You can also still communica through messages while suspended if you need to.

regards
Ian

Housesit details:
approx 8 weeks AvailFromDate = 2008-05-07
Looking for a reliable housesitter approx from the 7th May 2008 to the end of June 2008 or longer if they are happy to do so. Block home on small acreage about 15km from Charters Towers. Charters Towers is about 130km from Townsville. Partly bitumen & gravel road to residence. No pool but garden consists of mainly lawn to look after. Also checking of troughs and tank for few head of stock. No other pets. On rural power - television & also internet availability. A very comfortable home. Lots to see and do around the area and in the May through to September period the weather is good. With Townsville only an hour & half away - it is an added attraction. Someone with some knowledge of pumps & troughs would be of an advantage - however not necessary as not hard to learn the ropes!!!!!

Phillyqualified makes friends all around Australia and shares their experiences

Thanks to the House Carers, for the experiences I am having meeting people in all walks of life, by looking after their animals, and properties from one end of the country to the other, it is unending.

One has to have patience, and prepared to adjust to others ways of life. Also the meeting of the neighbours extends the list of friends in ones diary. At the present I am caring for a (leave me alone) Male Siamese cat named Adonis, Greek for handsome man. A large garden and orchard is his domain. but in the evening , very good company as long as you comb my fur coat, talk to me, and allow me to sit on your knee to watch TV.

From here I go from one xtreme to another. A bull terrier, I am looking foward to this home sit. I trained and showed them for several years. Have met the people and the Bully. Going to be a lovely christmas.
Phillyqualified

Regards Phill
ps.
We are looking for an opening in Australia, been trying for two sits, one in Cairns during our winter months and then one for a few weeks in the lower sunshine coast. We were in Maroochydore last winter and Really enjoyed it.

View sitter profile of Phillyqualified housecarers.com

Housesitter found for 2 month sit Mornington Peninsular VIC

"This is just to let you know that we have succesfully found a suitable house sitter through your Co; We found your service superior to another one we tried & without the cost involved many thanks" malcolm (UserName: jmbpom)

House sit Mornington Peninsular 2months:

My property is 3bedroom with carport with a small garden the person i am looking for should be able to maintain the garden&house be a non smoker &preferably 55+ with good references &willing to have a police check there are no pets to look after &nor will any be allowed on the premises

WarmWinds find housesitter for Salmon Arm British Columbia Canada Housesit

"Please be advised that we have filled the position for housesitter, and therefore can be removed from the system. Thank you very much for your services. It is a wonderful site." Joy (WarmWinds)

Salmon Arm 5 month Housesit Filled:

We are looking for a mature, dependable individual (or couple) with clean and neat living habits to live in and care for our cat and water the plants. We require housesitter to assume hydro and gas utility bills, as well as long distance. Other services are included, provided they suite housesitter requirements. We live in a small well kept home and are centrally located - within walking distance to downtown

Maureen recommends finding a housesitter after losing her beloved Cat at a cattery

I recently went on a holiday to visit family in Melbourne and put my beloved cat into a cattery. I thought 10 days it would be OK to leave her at a cattery. Unfortunately she caught cat flu and after a lot of veterinary care - had to be put to sleep. If you love your animals, as I do, I encourage people to find a house sitter, as I had done previously in the year for a 7 week spell - and came home with my pet still well and the house in order. All I lost then was one plant as opposed to my dear cat. Regards Maureen (maurs02>

Housesit filled recently:
Perth WA Australia
September 22nd till October 2nd. I have a comfortable, roomy 2 bedroom unit in Bassendean with lovely outdoor courtyard dining area. I have an old cat (friendly and takes to people). It is an easy care house and property in a good location. Reverse air conditioning in the lounge and main bedroom. Gas heating in lounge. Would like a clean person who will feed the cat etc. Unit close to river and amenities. Kind regards Maureen

Las Vegas homeonwer makes lifelong friends with house sitters

"We have just completed our first House sitting experience (as the homeowners) and wanted to thank you for the service you provided. We not only found the perfect home sitters, but have made wonderful new friends. Your service gave us exectly the information we needed to select the right sitters and we could not be happier.

Thank you for what you do. It is an amazing service. We will strongly recommend you to our friends. " UserName: rmromito

Housesit Las Vegas, Nevada
Beautiful home in gated community. Heated pool and spa in large xeriscaped yard overlooking desert arroyo park and trails. Fully equipped home gymnasium, home theatre and central music system. Two affectionate indoors-only Burmese cats will need love and attention. 20 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip.

Sitters found for Scottish cottage in beautiful area with lovely coastline

"Just to thank you for this great service - we have housesitters for six months at a time, and the experience has been mutually valuable and great fun! ..."

Housecarers Username kilchristcc

Housesit:
Country = Scotland City = Campbeltown region = argyll

An opportunity to stay in a beautiful area with lovely coastline, in return for some cleaning/caretaking in four small holiday cottages. Preferably couple with transport, rural location.

Housesitter found for Palea Fokaia Attiki (coast outside Athens) Greece

We found a very nice young couple to housesit for us and we are delighted. We hope that all will go well with them. They seem very responsible and able and we feel very
fortunate to have found them through your site.

We thank you once again as do Angus, Halifax, and Frederico, our 3 dogs!

We wish you the best of luck in all your endeavors and God Bless You!


Sincerely,
Fran UserName = halifax

We are looking for a handy couple not requiring internet to housesit for eco home with its back to over 2,500 acres of farmland & hunting grounds and 2 kms. in from beaches and marina. It is slightly secluded, newly built, simple home on 2 floors, has a backup generator, stick shift for all local errands and our 3 dogs. It's on 1/3 acre with manually controlled watering for most trees which need supervision. We are 1'20" from Athens with bus and 15" from Sounion

DreamPainter appreciated by homeowner

Karen stayed at my house for three weeks while I was on holiday.

When I met her for the first time, I was immediately impressed by her lovely kind and happy nature. She did a fantastic job of looking after my two dogs and the house was well taken care of and left in an immaculate condition.

You may rest assured when choosing Karen to look after your home and pets.

Feel free to contact me on 0401 702 654 if you would like further information.

Lynette (nettie01) Upper North Shore Sydney

View profile for sitter Dream Painter

Perfect match found for Brisbane Housesit

I would like to say just how great we found this service and as it was the first time for us we didn't know what to expect and we were pleasantly surprised. The quality of the sitters that we interviewed and checked the references was tops and I will not hesitate to use your service or recommend it to others.
Cheers
Yvonne & Don (nes1928)

Housesit:

We are a retired couple who spent the last 12 months travelling Australia and still have more to see. We have no pets but do require some gardening. Our home is a comfortable, clean and spacious 2 story home. Situated in a very quite picturesque parkland area and is within walking distance to the train station.

There is a bike and walking track within 200 mtrs. We are less than 1 km from the main highway that will take you to either North to the Sunshine coast or South to the Gold coast.

In just over an hour you can be at all the fun theme parks or golden beaches that Queensland is famous for. After this short trip we will be off to see Europe for 3 months and if it suited you could stay on and then house sit until early March 2008.

Sitter looking for another sitter to share sitting responsiblities long term

WANTED....partner for long term house sitting
opportunities


I am looking for someone to partner with mostly for
longer term house sits. From my house sitting
experience, I find that the obligation to the home
owner is fine for short terms but can be rather
restrictive for long term. During many long term sits,
especially the international ones, I would like to be
able to travel back to visit family members
occasionally or even travel to different places for
short times. If I had a partner with a similar desire
and live style as mine, we could work together and
cover for each other.


A bit about myself. I am a 57 year old retiree who has
an adventureous spirt. I recently returned from 2
years in Morocco in the Peace Corps working with small
businesses. During my working career, I was the CEO of
a sizeable manufacturing company in Virginia. My
management skills and wide range of experiences lend
themselves to this type of service and lifestyle. I've
completed a background check and am considered to be
very dependable, reliable and trustworthy. I can
supply references and recomondations upon request.


If this situation interests you, please contact via my profile


View profile and contact sitter lovehouse

Housesitter Orchard47 makes many new friends

"Thankyou for conducting this wonderfull service. I have enjoyed many fabulous housesits, cared for many loving animals and made many new friends.

Keep up the great work.

Regards Lynette (orchard47)

View profile for house sitter orchard47

Siiter found for beautiful Matarau, about 15kms from downtown Whangarei NZ

I love the Maori town names in New Zealand.

"Once again we have quickly found a house sitter through this site. Many thanks. "
Homeowner UserName: kandcw

We are looking for a house sitter to look after our house and two dogs in Matarau, about 15kms from downtown Whangarei. We have four acres, but dont expect anyone to do work outside. All we are after is someone to keep the dogs company each night! We leave 26th October, and we return on the 18th November. We are very flexible for people to stay for a few days either side of our absence if necessary. If you are interested, let us know and we can send you as much information as you require.

House sitter TimandGale report in from Bahamas - comfy small cottage in the palms r

Hey Ian

We thought we would thank you guys for offering a great service

We are currently very comfy in a small cottage in the palms right on the edge of the
Atlantic side of Eleuthera, Bahamas - housecareing for a guy who likes to fly off in his Cessna now and then
while we hang out and feed his dogs...

Thanks again (TimandGale)

View profile for sitters TimandGale - Bahamas

House sitting Kari like a whirlwind from Oklahoma to Kansas

Wanted to take a moment to say "Thank you!".

When I first joined Housecarers.com I wasn't sure exactly what I would find in the way of house/petsits and figured it would only be an occasional thing here and there.

I've been overwhelmed by the number of positions offered both on the site and to me directly! It's been amazing and so very hard to choose sometimes as there are an abundance of exciting opportunities and wonderful people, both homeowners & house carers, that use your website. It's fantastic!

I'm coming to the end of one house-sit here in the next couple weeks and the family has asked if I can return next summer again! In addition, right after this one ends I fly to my next petsit in Oklahoma and then one directly after that for seven months in Kansas! It's a whirlwind and I'm loving it! Many thanks to you for making it possible! Sincerely, Karri (kareezdreamz)

View profile for whirlwind housesitter kareezdreamz

So Many Places to go in this World - and to return to ...sitter CaringCarol"

We love being a member of housecarers.com. We have done 2 housesits and are going to return to both places this winter. After that we want to try different places so keep the information coming. We are always in awe at how many places there are to go in this world. House sitter CaringCarol

View profile for House Sitters CaringCarol

Retiree house sitter rvbernard sits in homes around the world

I continue to be so grateful for this website and your service to housesitters like me and the people requiring our services. I continue to receive offers to housesit and am spending my retirement housesitting in various homes in Canada, the US and Germany. I haven't broken into UK and Australia yet..but soon.

View profile for retired house sitter rvbernard

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU from Celeste in Carmichael CA

Thank you Ian, I filled our housesitting dates for January '08. We just had our housesitters from Chicago for a week this month. They were wonderful ! As always, your website is awesome! We have become good friends with our housesitter from January '07. She was wonderful, as well. I will re-activate my membership on our next travel. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU !!!Celeste

Housesit: Carmichael CA
The dates are 1/6/08 to 2/3/08-we have a time share in Cabo San Lucas & love the month there. We have a beautiful home in Carmichael, California (Sacramento)across from a park, 1 block from the American River Bike Trail, for walking,jogging,cycling, etc. Centrally located for all touring San Francisco, Lake Tahoe. We have an 8 yr old male Sheltie & a 2 yr old female Tuxedo cat that need loving care. They don't do well in the kennel.Only pet lovers need apply

Sitter matilmatil connects with 3 months Montreal sit

Ian


Thanks so much for the quick reply.

I am off to Montreal Canada for three months thanks to a connection I made through your site!!!!!

Thanks for the gift of connection.

Sincerely,
Nancy (username matilmatil)

View profile for house sitter Nancy - matilmatil

Winner of NavMan draw at the Sydney Retirement and Lifestyle expo

We are pleased to announce the winner of the NavMAN F20 drawn at 3.00 PM Sunday 27 July 2007 at our stand at the 2007 Sydney Retirement and Lifstyle expo.

The winner was still at the expo when we announced the draw - so photos will follow. It was not a requirement to be there - just another lucky chance.

Drum Roll .... The winner is ....

Suzanne Wilson from Plumpton a suburb os Sydney.. Pics of lucky winner to follow.

You can view the draw/prize details below:

Sydney Retirement and Lifestyle Housecarers draw for F20 NavMan in car navigation

GrandmaLou has fun in retirement and bonds with Grand daughter

"We have loved our house sitting experiences.

This has given us an opportunity to bond with our granddaughter (we live in Michigan, she lives in Oregon) and we have made new friends and have had a chance to explore the beautiful State of Oregon.

We never could have imagined retirement would be this much fun. Thanks, housecarers.com for the service you provide."

Louisa (GrandmaLou)

View sitters profile for GrandmaLou

Sitter found for housesit on Mary' River1 mile from Oregon State University and downtown Corvallis

"We have found a very nice couple through your website who will house sit for us for the time we will be away. Thank you very much for an easy to use system."
.. Maxine (ovely6acres)

Housesit: Southwest Corvallis Benton Oregon CountyDistrict

My husband and I are planning to be gone for two months in the winter 07/08. We have a lovely 1900 sq ft 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home on 6 acres, only 1 mile from Oregon State University and downtown Corvallis.

We prefer a mature individual or couple. One or two children would also be ok. The house has an open floor plan with lots of windows. The outside area contains a walnut/hazelnut grove, three huge old sequoia trees, a large back 2-acre field, which can flood during heavy rains.(No danger to the house.) We border the Marys River.

We have a cat that needs some attention. The outside gardens do not need much care during the winter months. Our landscaping is low maintainance Even in the winter, rain or not, we enjoy a lovely space

Sitters Robinsnest sits in Turin Italy then Cornwell UK

Dear Ian

Just to let you know we had two very successful house sits. One in Italy and one in Cornwall. We had some great moments with the animals and met some really lovely people.

We have just renewed for another year.

Thanks for the great service you provide.

Cheers

Rob .. Busselton W.A. (Robinsnest)

View profile for house sitters Robinsnest

Home Security with fingerprint scanning

A new technology allows entry to home via figerprint scanning. And the house sitters fingerprints can be easily added in.

A lot of standard household locks (including deadlocks) can be beaten within minutes by professional thieves, so this is an interesting development. You can find out more about this available now technology below.

Fingertip unlocks doors - Keeping your Victoria Real Estate Safe. And grant access to your house sitter

Travel and Explore through house sitting.

House sitting is a great way to really experience a country and become part of
the community.

Here is a list of current house sitting opportunities by country

House Sitting  Opportunities France

House Sitting  Opportunities New Zealand

House Sitting  Opportunities Australia

House Sitting  Opportunities Canada

House Sitting  Opportunities England

House Sitting Opportunities South Africa

House Sitting  Opportunities United States

House Sitting  Opportunities Italy

Housesitter found for Italian farm house Umbertide, Perugia, Appennine Mountains

"I have had a wonderful response, and have chosen an excellent match for my home. Thank you for the dynamics of your site. I'm sure I'll be posting other dates in the future. " homeowner italiansky

Housesit:4 months from Nov 2007

"Casacce 1" is a large farmhouse that is located in the countryside, 2 1/2 hours north of Rome, and 2 1/2 hours from Florence. The hill towns of Gubbio, Assisi, and Perugia are 30 minutes away.

Within the farmhouse is a self contained apartment with 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, full kitchen, dining room, and sitting room, that is heated with a large wood burning stove with the chimney extending through the atrium to both levels. We are a family of artists, thus there are paintings and pottery to be enjoyed. Cable, a washing machine and fire wood are included.

The market-town of Umbertide is 3km, so a bike or car may be necessary. Our needs are to make sure the house is always secure, and the cat is fed. The land - 1 hectare- should not need much upkeep this time of year, and I have a person that will come to take care of any household situation that may need repair. Last winter was very mild, but it is possible to have some snow, as this location is in the Appennine Mts., though the house is ground level with the main road.

Retired House sitters Maanpa experience a different part of Australian then land sit near family

"We have been very pleased with our 2 housesits received through you,one at Albury WA, for 2 months which enabled us to visit that area where we had never been and now at Maitland NSW which is close to our family."

House sitters maanpa

View profile for retired house sitting couple maanpa

Housesitter found for Northern suburbs Wellington New Zealnd

"We were quite overwhelmed by the number of people who quickly replied to our advertisement.

We have made a choice, ---- but found this to be SO dificult, as everyone sounded just lovely. However, we have made contact with a delightful lady, and we feel very confident that our house sitting arrangement with her will be good for both parties.


HouseCarers.com is a wonderful service, and we feel that it is very well set up and professionally run. We would certainly use it again, and would recomend it to anyone. "

Housesit Wellington NZ 5 weeks:

We are looking for a mature, responsible house sitter for 38 days, while we are on holiday. We have a 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home, situated in the Northern suburb hills above Wellington.

The sitter would need to be fit, or have their own vehicle, as the nearby bus service is limited, and the train is a 20 minute walk away. The sitter's main task would be to look after and love our 17 year old, very spoilt cat.

Also to water pot plants, and the garden as necessary. We require a non smoker, and someone who will not be bringing other pets into the home

Housesitter Found for very pleasant, and historic city of Angoulême Southern France not far from Cognac

"Hi! Just to let you know I've found a housesitter in less than 24 hours, so I'm very pleased with your service." UserName = Oliver'smum

Housesit: 3-4 weeks Soyaux Angoulême, Poitou Charentes Charente, France

I live in southwest France, in the last street on the edge of the very pleasant and historic city of Angoulême.

The house (small, 3 bedrooms) jhas a biggish garden front and back, mostly grass and fruit trees. Cross the road, and you have immediate access to miles and miles of open country with footpaths.

I have one friendly Jack Russell, Oliver, and two cats whom you may not see much of except at mealtimes. the bus stops outside my gate to go into Angoulême centre, where there are all the shops you could possibly want, and there's a hypermarket 5 mins away by car. Angoulême is handy for visiting Cognac, la Rochelle, Poitiers, the Dordogne, etc., and has an equestrian centre, aquacentre, canoeing/kayaking, and just behind my house (where children would be welcome if they're dog- trained) there's a park with kids' games, attainable on foot and wihout going on the road. Oh, and I have both British and French TV!

Sitter found for sit 10 minutes from the beach Vera Florida

Thank you so much for the membership. I have already found 2 housesitters who are interested in my situation and one who probably is really what I want! I am so excited! Thank you for this service and thank you for the extra emails providing me with legal/practical information about the arrangement. Thanks thanks thanks.

MARY User Name idylls (Vera Florida)

Seaforth Homeowner Servicer and Burmese cats, gets a very satsifactory response

Dear Ian,
Just a quick note to thank you for an excellent and effective service. We registered with you to find a house sitter about 10 days ago and were amazed by the quality and number of resposes.

We have met with a selected few, interviewed one, checked references and that person will now complete our housesit in August.
A very satisfactory response.
Regards,Daryl (Servicer)

Housesit : Seaforth NSW Australia
Easy to care for modern house with little garden.Does have swimming pool, easy to maintain. We have two burmese cats, very affectionate, again easy to care for. We are close to beaches of Manly, Curl Curl Dee Why, and close to bus service. Would need to be non smoker and have references,

GoWithFlow finds sitter to operate gas crabcooker with ocean views

"Position has now been filled. Very happy with the service and the quality of the applicants, any number of them would have been suitable.

I have removed the ad and all applicants have been replied to. Thank you for an excellent service. We will most definitely be using it again in the future. Many thanks and kind regards, Sue (GoWithFlow)"

Housesit: 6 weeks Mandurah WA Australia
We live in a beautiful part of Western Australia, the house is situated on over half and acre with ocean views.

The gardens are established and a lot of it is a woodland type garden which is self maintaining.Although the meandering pathways which wander through the garden need regular sweeping (good exercise) Some is more formal but mostly easy care. The lawns are mowed regularly by a paid mowerman.

We have no pets except 3 fish in a fishpond out in the garden. These look after themselves and live on insects etc which have the misfortune to fly or fall in. The garden supports a large number of lovely birds. The house is two story ( the top section will be closed off while we are away) and the downstairs is easily maintained as carpet is restricted to the 3 bedrooms and study and a small living room, the rest is quarry tiles. A very large country kitchen with all mod cons is a delight to work in if you are that way inclined (as I am) and the outdoor living area is huge with all weather living area complete with an outdoor kitchen including fridge and sink for great outdoor living and entertaining.

Mandurah is famous for its crabs which are easily caught from a boat or by walking along the estuary foreshore shallows with scoop nets. We have a gas crabcooker which gets plenty of use in the summer months.

The ocean is close for fishing, walking and swimming.There is also a sealed walking/bike track along the estuary foreshore. There is all the usual entertainment in Mandurah, which is 14 kms from Dawesville, performing arts where artists both local and international and from the Eastern States perform; movies numerous restaurants and cafes, fabulous fresh seafood, sporting clubs of all kinds and of course the estuary, river and ocean providing plently of wonderful tourist type drives.

Tourist launches operate out of Mandurah and a pleasant afternoon can be spent touring the magnificent estuary and canal developments viewing multi million dollar houses. The area is obviously a tourist hotspot, but our corner of it is relatively quiet and very pleasant, and makes for a wonderful life style

House Sitter found for 5 beautifully wooded acres about a half-hour from Baltimore

"Thank you very much for your service. We have found a house/dog sitter and appreciate the process you have set up. ... homeowner chesbay1

House sit : 1 month Highland Baltimore Maryland/ DC or

We are seeking a mature, responsible house/dog sitter for the month of June 2007. Our house is a 3 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath home, located on 5 beautifully wooded acres about a half-hour from Baltimore, an hour from Washington, D.C. and about 45 minutes from Annapolis.

It's got a great back porch, with a hammock, overlooking the woods. It's a perfect home and location for someone who wants to explore the greater Washington-Baltimore metropolitan area. The subway to Washington DC is about 20 minutes away and, from there, it's about a half-hour non-rush hour ride to the Capitol.

There's an electric dog fence surrounding the property and our pet is free to roam, so he doesn't need walking or require any special care other than feeding, water and some occasional scratching and attention. There's also an above-ground pool on the yard that you would be welcome to use. It doesn't require much maintenance, other than occasionally putting in some chlorine and d.e.

We have a lawn cutting service which comes in periodically -- so there is no property maintenance required. It would be helpful if you had a car since the closest store or bus service is about a mile away. Although there are no bike paths, the area is very popular with bicyclists because of the semi-rural nature of the community and the scenic rolling hills.

Actress from Prisoner TV series links up with wonderful, reliable, trutworthy, people

Greetings,
I am Val Lehman, the actor who played Bea Smith in the internationally acclaimed Australian Television Series. 'Prisoner' . I just wanted to let everyone contemplating engaging a house sitter know this: I have twice used House Carers.Com, to find someone to look after my home and my animals whilst I worked overseas, and interstate.

On both occasions I've had wonderful, reliable, trutworthy, people who came in to my home and cared for everything beautifully. I am so grateful to House Carers for this service, and wish to thank them for their level of responsibility, and commitment to providing a most valuable and worthwhile service.

val-lehman.com Official Val Lehman Website | Top Dog | Bea Smith | Prisoner Cell Block H

Dunedin NZ LuckyGrandma finds the perfect match

My ad has been very successful/ It has been difficult to choose which one to have! All the repsonses seem to be of a very high calibre, so your site is excellent. Thank you. Also thank you for the excellent Agreement form.

LuckyGrandma

Housesit:
7.2 weeks Maori Hill, Dunedin Otago New Zealand

2-bedroom townhouse in Maori Hill; bus stop across the road; handy to shops, Dr, cafe, library bus, church, schools. Walking distance to university and town (all down hill);attractive walks. To care and love one small 10 year old dog; sleeps a lot; loves company, intelligent!

judyandtrevor Dont have to impose on friends and find a great win-win with a sitter

"We are very impressed with your website and the service it
provides.

It is so nice not to have to put out friends and families to look after our domestic responsibilities and to have someone with a reciprocal circumstance.

We are looking forward to meeting our first sitters shortly and have already established friendly communication with them. We will certainly use your services again in the future and have recommended it to friends. "
Thanks, Judy and Trevor

UserName: judyandtrevor

Housesit: Terrigal, Central Coast NSW Australia 1 month AvailFromDate = 2007-06-23
Large, comfortable house on 1 hectare, 2-3 kms from beach, Terrigal township; free rent in exchange for feeding of wild birds and pet peahen, gold fish.

Vancouver Island, British Columbia, 4 months Housesit filled

"Thank you for the wonderfull service you people provide for people like me. Thanks once again and will look forward to use your service again in the future."

.... Regards Findme

House sit filled: Qalicum British Columbia Canada
MY WIFE&MYSELF ARE LOOKING FOR A HOUSITTER FOR ABOUT 4-5 MONTHS STARTING NOV1/07 TO MARCH 31/08. OUR HOME IS A 3BR RANCHER WITH 3 BATH + DEN WITH 2 CAR GARAGE .WE ARE ON 3 ACRES OF LAND AND HAVE A DETACHED SHOP AND STUDIO, ON WELL AND SEPTIC SYSTEM. OUR HOME IS LOCATED IN THE PARKSVILLE/QUALICUM AREA ON VANCOUVER ISLAND. THE HOUSE IS HEATED WITH ELECTRIC HEAT OR IF YOU SO DESIRE YOU COULD BURN WOOD IN THE WOOD HEATER IN THE LIVING ROOM WHICH WE DO MOST OF THE TIME. WE ARE LOOKING FOR A COUPLE WHO DO NOT SMOKE OR HAVE ANT PETS AND WOULD ASK THEIR GUEST NOT TO SMOKE OR BRING PETS INTO THE HOUSE, BUT WOULD TREAR OUR HOME WITH T.L.C. KEEPING IT CLEAN AND TIDY BUT ALSO ENJOYING IT LIKE YOUR OWN HOME. WHAT WE WANT FOR THIS IS THAT YOU PAY THE FOLLOWING UTILITIES PER MONTH A)HYDRO BILL-DEPENDING ON USAGE B)TELEPHONE INCLUDES 500 MINUTES LONG DISTANCE FIXED RATE $73.49 C STAR CHOICE SATALITE TV FIXED RATE $49.69+RENTALS D) INTERNET SERVICE FIXED RATE $33.85 E) WOOD BURNED $100.00 PER CORD F) PICK UP MAIL AT MAIL BOX

Byron Bay, North Coast NSW Australia homeowner takes the worry out of travels .

"Hi,

Just wanted to let you know that we have been wonderfully overwhelmed with responses to our post from all over the globe and are now very happily going through them all to find the most suitable.

We hope to have achieved that by the end of May.
Thankyou so much for your service it has really taken the worry out of our travels and we are so happy with the very quick replies. Will remain active until then just in case. Many thanks PANDPH.

House sit: Lismore Heights, NSW Australia

Professional couple need reliable, tidy and quiet house sitter/s who love dogs (we have two large but lovable, one quiet, one boistrous), is able to handle/walk/cuddle them everyday. We travel two to three times a year and need someone we can trust to look after the house and our furry kids. Our business is also attached to our home so we need someone willing to take bookings and deal with phone calls. We are on a main road 30 minutes from beaches (Byron Bay, Lennox Head) and a few minutes from major shopping areas. References essential.

Sitter found for just across the Rio Grande river from the Albuquerque Zoo

"Thank you so very much for your Homesitting Service! We advertised with you and quickly located a quite suitable sitter in Albuquerque with whom we feel comfortable establishing a continuing relationship to be with our home and animals."
.... UserName jpdoug7678

Housesit: Vecinos del Bosque, Albuquerque New Mexico United States

Looking for a quiet, non-smoking person to stay with our three cats, small dog and three parakeets, water the yards and plants, keep the house clean for 23 days, beginning 30 July, 2007. We are in a quiet southwest valley neighborhood, just across the Rio Grande river from the Albuquerque Zoo, Tingley Park, Old Town, Biological Park and Aquarium. Yard has large trees, lawns, flowers, carport parking for sitter's car. Home is carpeted, has library, sunroom, high-speed computer connection, easy to care for

Globe-hopping House Sitters reports in

Last year we had two great housesitting trips to Hawaii and then to London.

All of our friends ask how they can do this too. We have given the web site to lots of people Thanks,Monte and Lois (username metlat)

phillyqualified get a good report from Kiwi semi-rural homeowners muscrat

We found housesitters phillyqualified to be extremely reliable and professional during the two week period that he housesat for us. He looked after our dog wonderfully. She missed him for several days once he left. He also cared
for our cats and chooks. We came home to a clean, tidy and organised home
and well cared for plants.

Phillyqualified met s a couple of weeks before the house sitting assignment and as soon as we met him we felt he was honest, professional and very capable of caring for our home. While we were away he kept us updated on our pets and let us know everything was going well. Which gave us peace of mind and we were able to travel without any concerns for home.

We have no
hesitations in recommending phillyqualified to other people looking for a caring, reliable, honest housesitter. Phillyqualified is excellent with animals and obviously lavished attention (without spoiling) our dog. If we require a housesitter in the future we will certainly hope that phillyqualified is available again. Regards Kim (homeowners muscrat)

"Housesitter required to look after house, 2 cats, dog and chickens in semi-rural location. 2 minutes drive from Otaki, 20 mins from Paraparaumu. Includes feeding animals, collecting food for chooks from local cafe (car available) and walking dog as well as general care of property."

Housecarers acquires housesitting.com

We have just acquired the domain name housesitting.com This domain name will route to our website www.housecarers.com

So if you are at a dinner party and can't quite remember the name housecarers.com (or maybe your or the listener have had a drink too many) - just think housesitting and add the .com or .com.au as we have housesitting.com.au too.

They all end up at the same place for housesitting worldwide.

Trust - alive and well reports sitters jb4440

Wow what a great experience this has been for us.

We have managed to secure house sitting for the duration of our stay in Perth, Western Austrlia. This whole service basically boils down to people trusting people and it's a wonderful feeling to know that 'trust' has not withered away in this materialistic money hungry world that we have created.

Thank you for this great service and we hope to be able to return the favour to others in future. housesitters jb4440

Dog Lover Dilema solved: finds alternative to costly dog boarding kennel.

Would just like to say Thankyou for your site.
As a first time user, it is wonderful to know that a service like this exists.

I was in a real dilema about leaving my dogs in kennels and the cost involved when a friend just happened to mention getting a housesitter and here I am.

Username:klaray

Housesit: Mothar Mountain, southeast of Gympie Queensland Australia
We have a 9 acre property which is 15 minutes drive from Gympie township,40 minutes drive to Noosa or Tin Can Bay about 50 minutes Drive to Rainbow Beach and 2 hours drive North of Brisbane. We have 2 very old dogs, a German Shepperd and a Rottweiller, both very friendly, who need very little looking after but do need someone to be with them for company while we are away.

We also have 6 free range chickens that will need to be tended to. We have a few garden beds that will need watering and the lawns will need mowing,some with a ride on mower and some with a hand motor mower. Half of our water supply is pumped from our dam and the rest is rainwater.

There is not a great deal of work to do around the property so there will be plenty of time to take in some of the sights in the area and just enjoy the peace and tranquility. We have lots of birdlife to enjoy also.

Sitter found for Brisbane QLD house sit opposite an egret colony

Thank you once again for your service. We have now chosen one and deactivated our search. We appreciate this website, as it seems to bring the results every time.

Home owner sandra Redlands Victoria Point Brisbane Queensland Australia

We are looking for a mature person or couple to look after our cat, and water plants, we have bore water so this should not be a problem. We are in a lovely location,it's a modern home, close to the water, and opposite an egret colony

Housecarers in the press

The housecarers.com house sitting agreement is featured in the following story. House sitting is going main stream, with more and more people recognising this win-win solution for accommodation.

Yes, You Can Live Rent-Free At kiplinger.com, Personal Finance and Business Advice.

Merseysiders connect with the right housesitter and released for holiday

Dear Housecarers.

Thank you very much for your invaluable service. We had 2 answers in less than 24hrs and both were ideal, unfortunately we could only use one. Now we can go for our holiday to England knowing that our house and animals are being well looked after. We will certainly use your services again next year. Thanks again
.... Merseysiders

Housesit Glen Innes NSW Australia:
We live in a semi- rural area in the New England Tablelands, in the heart of Celtic Country. We are 9kms out of town, just 5 mins by car. Our home is a 100 year old federation style dwelling with a separate s/c cottage which sleeps 3. Our 'kids' are 2 Maltese, 2 long hair Chihuahuas and 1 Llasa Apso, who really do think that they are kids.

They don't need walks etc, just lots of cuddles and loving. We also have 3 cage birds. There are cottage gardens, which you can feel free to potter about in, and a ride-on mower for the lawns, if you are able. Would prefer non-smoker.

Sitter memmereof3 saves thousands travelling New England

I love this site. It has saved me thousands of dollars. In the past year I've been able to spend approximately 3 months traveling to New England and housessiting. The Boston area is where my family live and this is a great way to come from CAL and visit often. Thanks so much.

We've used your site to advertise for housesitters in our Sacramento area home and have been very satisfied with the response and caliber of the people using this site. I highly recommend Housecarers.com to all my friends and family... Janice

View profile for house sitter memmereof3

House Sitters twotravellers share their experiences and house sitting plans

Hi Ian

You recently asked for an update on our current house sitting status.

When we returned home from our UK house sit and touring our household situation changed dramatically. We had lived in a granny flat at my Dad's for eight years but he has decided to go into a retirement villa. Although he travels with us a lot, he has found his current house too large when we are away. As a result we are temporarily homeless.

We have bought a villa for ourselves but if we rent it out for 12 months we are eligible for an interest only, business loan. So finding house sits became a real priority, then out of the blue Len and Christine contacted us ( via housecarers ) and offered us a house sit. It was perfect timing as we have now been able to put our household effects in storage - less clothes. Every thing went into storage on the 12th and we moved down here on the 15th of March.

( 1 ) Currently we are on a small holding, about 25 minutes from Bathurst.
It is terribly dry here and I have the job of trying to keep the extensive gardens alive.

We have two rescue dogs - Poppy ( a sheltie, about 11 ) and Bella ( A kelpie cross, about 7 or 8 ) to care for. In addition we have 7 birds ( in avaries ), two turtles and numerous wild birds that come for a feed. The owners have a fairly orderly system - but that is good because we know when to do what and can adjust our touring around this. We are here for four weeks, until the 16th of April.

The home owners have a lovely neighbour called Gwenda and she has had me to dinner as well as taking me out to a native plant field day yesterday. Gwenda has a fabulous garden and has already supplied us with fresh tomatoes, fresh beans, pickles and other great food.

( 2 ) We go home to camp out at Dad's place for three weeks, have a garage sale for him and move him into his new place. We then leave for the USA on May the 5th or 6th to do two house sits - each for three weeks. One in Norfolk, Virginia ( 3 cats ), then one in Kentucky , Tennesee ( a two year old Pomeranian ),

( 3 ) We have then been invited to stay with friends in Michigan for a week - having a real American 4th of July.

( 4 ) We have about a week free once we fly on to the UK - we may go back to Ireland

( 5 ) July the 15th, start a 5 week house sit in Liverpool ( one cat called Kali ). We always arrive a few days early to meet the animals and get to know the house and its quirks. We met the home owner last December ( 2006 ) when we were doing our London house sit. Her sister now lives in Sydney and we are meeting up for dinner when we finish the housesit here in Bathurst.

( 4 ) Then we are going back to our London house sit so that the house owners can have a summer holiday in Portugal. We can't be too bad if they will have us back :).

( 5 ) Back to Australia in the middle of September, 2007

( 6 ) We are in the running for a house sit in Adelaide for all of October.

Hope this has been helpful,
Regards,
John and Kerrie

twotravellers

View profile for sitters twotravellers

Globe trotting house sitter looks up her friends across the country

I just wanted to let you know that since joining I have house/pet sat in New Mexico for a month, in Honolulu for a month, in st. paul,mn for a month, and in May I will be in Tucson AZ for 2 weeks and in June I will be in Atlanta, GA for a month.

I have been choosing places where I have old friends or family. Jane (username:janieben)

View profile for house sitter janieben

4.5 months Tampa Palms Florida housesit filled by Californian looking to relocate

I can't tell you how wonderful your service was to use. It was so easy. We received notes from many highly qualified and interesting sounding applicants.

We went over them all, wrote back to some and decided on a delightful person from California looking to relocate in Florida. Thank you for a rewarding experience--what a marvelous service!

homeonwer member: stanleyreahard

Housesit 4.5 months Tampa Palms Florida
We live in a lovely 3 bedroom, 3 bath house in an area convenient to USF, golf courses, Busch Gardens,Gulf beaches (40 minutes) and an hour drive to Orlando. The house has a pool, spa and sauna and is on a conservation lot that backs up to a pond. We are connected to high speed internet and have two offices where a sitter can set up to do business.

We have ongoing yard and pool service and can make arrangements with our cleaning crew if desired. We are walking distance to shopping and an Episcopal church. A multi-plex is 2 miles down the road as are restaurants and chain stores.

We also have a cat who loves to sit on the desk while you work and on your lap when you watch tv so if you're allergic, this house is not for you! Please contact us if you're interested. We'd love to have a couple or a single to enjoy our house and take good care of our cat.

House sitting amoung the wines, hazel nuts and the white truffles of Alba Italy

"Just finishing having a 5 month house sit for our home in Italy. It worked out great. We have just organized another for a three week period.
Thanks for your wonderful service..." Homeowner member Krath10

Housesit: Cessole Piemonte Italy. From April 1 2007
We have a three bedroom home in the hills of the Langhe. The area is famous for its wines, hazel nuts and the white truffles of Alba. We are looking for someone to stay at our home from April 1st to the 27th. We would like people that are pleased to take care of the gardening and who could also do some general repairs etc. A car is necessary

House sitting Press

Here are some press releases on house sitting experiences through housecarers.com


Subscribe to House sitting press feed

Farmstay Holiday filled and hobby farmers released to enjoy time away

"Thank you for this great service. We have found a housesitter. It will be a great load off our minds while we are away,as we have a few animals on our farm. And I'm sure the housesitters will enjoy their farmstay. Thanks again for this wonderful web site." Regards Kylie (kakadu)

House sit UserName = kakadu Wagga Wagga NSW Australia 2 weeks
We have a small farm, So housesitter would need to look after house and yard, also feed the various animals, Horse, Cows, Goats, Sheep, Ducks and Chickens. This is not hard to do or very time consuming, but very enjoyable. Have a farm stay holiday at our place!

Pet Safety: How to Pet Proof your Home

Our homes present many dangers to our feline and canine companions that we need to consider and take steps to prevent accidental poisoning or injury, possibly even death.

Here are two articles/checklists for keeping your home safe for your pets.


How to Pet-Proof Your Home

Pets are like children in some ways. They have a curious nature and a natural tendency to get into things that could be harmful. If you have a pet or are thinking of getting one, it’s best to pet-proof your house. Here are a few ways to protect your pet from household dangers.


Keep Pets Safe From Household Dangers

Sitter phillyqualified goes the extra mile for Wellington NZ homeowner

Hello there - I'd like to place 'feedback' on a housesitter I used at my home in Wellington New Zealand. His ID on your site is phillyqualified

Could you please place this feedback on his profile.

"Phil looked after my home and cats for three weeks. When I came back both cats and house were in great condition. The cats seemed to have been living in the lap of luxury, and Phil had also completed some home maintenance tasks (fixing a lock and getting rid of moss on the path) which were much appreciated. "

Highly recommended. .. Jane

Housesit: Roseneath Wellington New Zealand

"Require honest, reliable, tidy housesitter while the family is on holiday. Comfortable family home with magnificent harbour views, in easy walking distance to downtown Wellington city (Te Papa, Courtney Place)."

12 month housesit in Montreal filled

This is the second time I am recruiting a house/petsitter through your website. First time, I selected one based on listed profiles, and found a really reliable sitter within a few days.

This time around, it is a particularly long sit, so I decided to post an ad describing the deal - within 3 days, I received a dozen responses, with many promising candidates, and I have come to an agreement with someone who appears really ideal.

What a relief for me to know that my pets will be in good hands during my time away. I could not ask for a more efficient system - thank you.

.... homeownner member oksendal

House sit Plateau Suburb Montreal Quebec CountyDistrict 12 months

"Academic to be on sabbatical looking for a mature, responsible, experienced, non-smoking, pet-loving sitter (single or couple). Fun, friendly, large apt. in great Plateau neighborhood of Montreal. Fully furnished, lots of light and character. Pets include one very affectionate and friendly dog and three indoor cats (some friendlier than others !). The apt. has one bedroom and one double bedroom/office, a livingroom, dining room, large sunny kitchen, back and front balconies, one bathroom, on the top floor of a triplex. I will likely try to make 2 or 3 one-week or shorter visits during that year"

House Sitter Neva meet some of the nicest people through house sitting

Thanks for providing such a valuable service. Here's my feedback that
you can feel free to post on the site:

Since I joined housecarers.com, I've met some of the nicest people and I've gotten four housesits through this service and made contact with two other people for possible housesits in the future.

I belong to other housesitting sites on the internet too, but this one is by far the best. I appreciate that Ian takes prompt action to delete ads that are inappropriate or that fall outside the scope of housesitting. This is a very valuable service and I'm happy to have found it.
Sitter username nevhowell

Neva , Online Wellness Counselor,
www.askahealer.com

Northern Rivers Homeowners - couldn't be happier after returning from 6 week holiday

Your service is just fantastic. We found very professional and efficient
housesitters (doumatjas) and couldn't be happier after returning from our 6 week holiday. Ours were great and I would like to leave a good reference for them.
.... Homeowners Northcoasters

House sit : Lismore NSW Northern Rivers Australia
We need someone to look after our house and two dogs (and perhaps one fish, if it's lucky). We have a nice low-maintenance house in a quiet area. It has a medium lawn that will need to be mown. We want someone to care for our house and love our dogs the way we would. Thanks.

Victoria Point Precious Golden Retriver Labrador Monet left in such capable hands.

My husband and I would like to comment on the wonderful experience we have had with house carers KISIMUL through HouseCarers.com. We were able to experience a wonderful holiday and Christmas with family in Tasmania after leaving our precious golden retriver Labrador Monet in such capable hands.


We will definately use the service again. Our HouseCarers.com sitters were honest, patient and kind and kept us informed when we needed to touch base.


I have recommended the web site to various pet owners who reside in the Redlands Shire district of Queensland as we meet regularly at the Puppy Park.


Once again thankyou for providing such a wonderful avenue for finding suitable carers. As a result we will use the service again.

Ellen (homeowner member e192628k)


We live in Victoria Point in South East Queensland. We are seeking a reliable person or couple (will consider family with children) with references to house sit and mind our spoilt female Golden Retriever company, from 21/12/06 to 2nd or 3rd/1/07. You need to be kind and love animals. Our home has an inground salt water pool and is airconditioned. The sitter would have our guest room with own bathroom facilities. Our home is approx 1 kilometre from the beautiful waters edge of Morton Bay. Nearby one can access ferries to Stradbroke and other Islands by water taxi or vehicular ferry. This location is ideal for the boatie with deep access to the beautiful bay. The area is a tourist mecca with much to see and do from Brisbane which in 30 kilometres north, to a 45 minute drive south to theme parks then onto the Gold Coast. We are willing to consider a family who would like a holiday over this period as long as you have references and you are able to keep our pet company.

Sitters lexilou having a ball seeing different parts of Australia

Hi, we joined your site in October this year and it has been a great success for us, we have already done two house-sits and have a third one all arranged for 2 months in Feb 2007.

The people we have met through these house sits have all been really lovely people, we are having a ball seeing different parts of the country (so far Maryborough Qld and Sydney and the next one on the Sunshine Coast), we are more than happy with this site and think it is well worth the money to join, Patricia (lexilou)

View profile for housesitter lexilou

Sitter found for Scenic Mt. Tamborine Queensland Australia

"Thanks for your help in finding a sitter for us for 2007. Your system is excellent in allowing the homeowner to examine all applicants within an envelope of privacy, before making a decision."

Regards cal5288

Do you fancy a break in Queensland's beautiful autumn-winter weather sitting a modern easy care home-with no pets,no pool.

On top of a 550m elev mountain we look 60 kms to Mt. Warning with extensive views of the Border Ranges.

We are on 5 acres. Although that sounds daunting,around the home is cottage garden (with built in watering system from our own water supply)and an acre of lawns,which during autumn-winter will only need cutting every 2-3 weeks-taking 2 hours.We have a 2y.o.15HP Husquvarna ride-on mower.Gardener will also come in to help,at our expense.Lower 3 acres is planted in native forest.

35 mins. from Southport,1hour from Brisbane.

If you would like to sit in one of Australia's most beautiful places,please contact us. We prefer experienced non-smokers with references

Kiwi sitter phillyqualified sees parts of Australia She would not of ever seen with out Housecarers

I must honestly say how pleased I am with your organization.

Every thing is house proud, and one can not but follow the path way that you have laid out before your members. Because of this have my year nearly booked out except for oct. Sept. and Dec.you have just listed a new member from Wellington Janblakie. So I have taken the load off her mind as well.

A bit earlier than i intended starting but her property is only 10 mins drive away so I can manage it as well. Also i had three weeks spare in March and goodvibes sent a message saying they were pleased with my profile and will be in touch after Christmas, so that takes care of march.

I am looking foward to a long membership and looking foward to seeing parts of Australia I would not of ever seen with out Housecarers... Phill (Phiilyqualifid)

View profile for sitter phillyqualified

Sitters Margaret and Allen tour Australia and make friends House Sitting

What a wonderful experience housesitting has been for us - the places we have travelled to & the very special people we have met & stayed friends with. Along with all of this is the responsibility of caring for pets & property which is a privilege given to us once chosen to sit a property.

We have sat houses in Tasmania, Yungaburra (on the very beautiful Atherton Tablelands NQ), Innisfail (not when the cyclone hit)! Cairns (a couple there), Narangba & a B&B in the north west of Victoria (which was a wonderful experience for us). We have a sit in SA early next year which we are looking forward to after we spend Christmas with our family on the Gold Coast. An overseas sit we are hoping for in 2007 - if it is meant it will happen.

Merry Christmas to you & your staff
Regards
Margaret & Alan (AlnMaggie)

View profile for sitters AlnMaggie"

New Zealand house sitter Jan enjoys her Sardina Sit

I have just returned from my 1st housesit (in Sardinia), and found it very rewarding.So thanks to your website for the opportunity, may many more come my way. And Xmas cheer to your team , for all their work to enable members to enjoy this great 'fellowship'. Jan (Jayjay )

View profile for housesitter Jayjay

Sitter found for Coes Creek Queenland housesit

We are home owners who have used this site twice now to locate suitable house sitters. We have been VERY impressed with the service that you offer and each time have had very suitable house sitters to choose from.

This site means that we can go away and know that our house and dogs are being well cared for. We have recommended this site to our friends who are in a similar position to us. People don't always have extended family available to keep an eye on pets, pools and general house maintenance when they go on holidays. Many thanks, homeowners username judyandsteve Coes Creek Queenland

Homeowner twiligh get great response for Bright Vic Aust Tourist Haven

"We have organised for a successful house sit. Thank you - the service and response has been great. Will now use it all the time. We listed with a couple of other agencies with absolutely no response."

Homeowner member twiligh

Fully renovated cottage in the tourist haven of Bright, a small town of 2000 people set in the North-East High Country only 3 & 1/4 hour drive from Melbourne. The 3 bedroom cottage with one bathroom (new large spa bath)and dishwasher is set on a beautiful block only 400 metres to town. Bright has 13 cafes and 15 restaurants to cater for tourists in the busy times. The house is very cool in summer with most summer nights about 10 degrees. The house is set on a large block with a running creek and only one neighbour. Bright is surrounded by mountains and is close to Falls Creek, Mt Hotham and Mt Buffalo. It is set in a wine and gourmet food region. Bright has been voted one of the 10 most beautiful tourist destinations in Australia. With nothing to do but look after two quiet cats - does anyone want a free holiday. Maximum of two people only as the cats are shy.

False Alarms: Know How to Prevent Them

Don't let your holiday season be ruined by false alarms.

Here is an article on preventing false alarms. Dont forget to
make your house sitter familiate with your alarm system.


False Alarms: Know How to Prevent Them - Kansas City infoZine

House Sitters Potter line up 3 housesits

I find your site to be very user friendly. We are pleased with your service and have found 3 very good matches as housesitters. I would recommend your site to anyone either looking to housesit or find a housesitter. Thank you. .. potter


View profile for sitters Potter

2nd sitter found for Scottish coastal cottages

Our first sitters contacted from your website have just left after 6 months, they and we were sad as it has worked tremendously well. Another will be in place shortly, thanks for this great way of putting people in touch.

Best wishes Janet (kilchristcc)

An opportunity to stay in a beautiful area with lovely coastline, in return for some cleaning/caretaking in four small holiday cottages

Sitter AussieWendy makes many friends around the world through house sitting

I love the Housecarers site, and I have recommended it to thousands of people around the world.

I happily recommend you to everyone who will listen.

I have never had a bad house sit and I have made many friends around the world when I sit for them. These friendships are ongoing.

I love what I do, and I hope to be doing it for many years to come. Thank you.

View profile for sitter AussieWendy

House sitter peggykass fits in writing, and sight seeing with her Vancouver Sits

This year I completed two house sits that came to me through this website. I have been pleased with both and have been asked to perform future house sits for both homeowners in the Vancouver, BC area. The first was for three months and the second for two weeks. Both included the care of cats and both were in locations that were perfect for sight seeing, as well as writing.


Now, I am in Europe and hoping to find a position in France for anywhere from a few weeks to a few months this winter, but I have to be back in Vancouver at the end of Feb. for a repeat house sit there.


My thanks to Ian for providing a comprehensive and very professional service at Housecarers.com. Peggy

View profle for house sitter peggykass

doglvrs2retird enrich their lives through house sitting

We have had several housesits through contacts from your
service and have only great things to say about each.

Our stay in England for a delightful couple and their loving border collie
this past February was the tops. Kudos to you for a wonderful
service provider! Your contacts are enriching our lives in ways
we couldn't have imagined. Thank you, and we hope to be of
service to more who need their pets and homes well cared for in
the year to come. Mary & Jeff .. doglvrs2retird

View Profile for doglvrs2retired

Sitter for Pyrenees Orientales South of France found

"Absolutely excellent service. Several very suitable people found to look after our home and animals. Thank you for providing this!"

Erik in the South of France (UserNam rousillon)

We have a fairly large property, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 terraces, swimmingpool, and a 2 acre garden, situated among vineyards in the South of France. Need animal-loving house-sitters for time to time, for a week and up to 3 weeks. NB: Two kind guard dogs, 2 horses and a pot-belly pig

Reluctant Seattle Homeowner finds Perfect Sitter

"Dear HouseCarers:
Thanks so much for providing this service and from what I can tell, managing it well. I was reluctant at first to select an unknown person via internet, but I was assured by a friend that I would be able to discern a quality contact.

I was actually overwhelmed by the quantity and quality of responses and have found a person who I think will be perfect. (A woman with a son near where we live with whom she wants to spend the holidays.)

I am already recommending your service to many of our friends with similar needs.
.... Linda (ChateauPoulet)

We have 3 very spoiled indoor cats who need daily food, water, kisses and hugs. We also have about 30 chickens who need food and water (every few days) and egg gathering (every day). We live in a lovely two-story log house with hot tub, flirtacious view of the water, within walking distance of Pritchard Park and 10 minutes from the ferry terminal on a Kitsap bus route. We travel intermittently for a week or two at a time and have ongoing needs. And I represent a network of friends who have similar needs.

Bainbridge Island Seattle Washington United States

Twenty Tips That Make Painting Easier

A list of twenty tips and hints that will make painting easier. Tips include ways that will make clean up easier, how to protect surface, etc.

Painting is a hard enough job without any extra labor. The following is a list of tips you should keep in mind before you start painting. They might not make you enjoy it, but they will make the job easier.

1. Make sure you have everything you need before you get started—especially enough paint. In general, a can of paint covers about 400 square feet.

2. Try to avoid painting on rainy days. The extra humidity in the air will cause the paint to dry slower. If this can't be avoided, use a dehumidifier to help speed the drying process.

3. If you are painting a large room, don't try and same money by purchasing the cheap rollers and brushes. The money you save will be minimal and won't make up for sore hands. Plus, better rollers and brushes will help you work quicker.

4. Have your primer tinted the same color as you intend to paint. This will ensure that the paint covers well and could cut down on the need for an additional coat.

5. Use a nail to tap about five or six holes in the retaining grove of the paint can. This will allow the paint to run back into the can. If you need to reseal the can, you can put the nails into the can or put a little play dough or clay over the holes.

6. Glue a large paper plate to the bottom of any open paint can you are using to catch any splatters or drips.

7. Flattened out corrugated boxes are perfect to cover the floors with when painting.

8. Have a wet rag and paper towels handy to wipe up any drips or mistakes. Most of them—including accidental dabs on the ceiling—can be removed this way.

9. Keep some patching compound and a spackle handy. You'll be surprised at all the little holes and marks you can find on your wall. They might not have been visible with the old color, but they can stand out with the new.

10. When stopping for short periods, seal your paintbrushes inside a Ziploc or plastic bag. This will keep them "fresh" without having to spend the time cleaning them. Plastic wrap and aluminum foil work almost as well.

11. Line the inside of your paint tray with aluminum foil or plastic. It will make the clean up easier.

12. To make cleaning your brushes easier, use an old baby-wipe container. Poor paint thinner into the container and push the handle of the brush through the hole in the lid. This will allow the brush to soak without bending the bristles. If you don't have any baby-wipe containers, try cutting a slot into the lid of a coffee can or similar container.

13. Wipe paint rollers on old newspapers before cleaning. Getting rid of any excess paint will make them easier to clean.

14. Rub hand lotion on your hands and arms before you begin. It will make the paint easier to wash off your hands when you're finished. Also, baby oil is sometime better at removing paint from your skin that soap.

15. If you have a steady hand, you might not need masking tape to cover the edges.

16. Wet newspaper can work great at protecting windows. You can use one-inch long strips of newspaper to protect the windowpanes around a window. Dip each strip into water. Pull the strip between your thumb and index finger to remove the excess water. Press the strips onto the glass close to the wood. Do only two at a time and remove them as soon as you're through.

17. If you're painting a bathroom, use wet newspaper to cover the bottom and sides of the tub. The newspaper will click and keep your tub paint-free.

18. Wrap hardware (doorknobs, hinges, pulls, etc.) in foil before painting.

19. Use old milk jugs to store paint. It will keep just as long and the paint is easier to access if you need to do some touch-ups.

20. Write the date, brand and color of paint used under the light switch for a handy reference.

Copyright © 2006, Ian White Access 2000 Pty Ltd