Want to Live Rent Free? Become a House Sitter

As a single person, or a young couple, house sitting can be a great way to live rent free! In many cities, college towns, and vacation destinations people own second homes. Often the home owner is a fair distance away and would be more comfortable if the second home had a "lived in" look on a daily basis.

By living in a home, you are providing the homeowner the security of someone maintaining the property in their absence. You would be responsible for caring for their indoor plants as well as their outdoor landscaping needs. Keeping plants watered and trimmed as necessary.

If you are looking for a long term commitment for your living arrangements, a second home is your best option. Look for a college town, or a vacation destination to find the home you will be living.

Or perhaps, you are looking for more short term arrangements. A week or two here and there, to be away from your parents home while you are attending college. In this situation, it will be easier to find something closer to home, and you may find yourself pet sitting as well.

No matter which option to choose, you need to spend some time networking to find a suitable arrangement. The easiest way to find a vacant home is to tell everyone and anyone that you are available to house sit or pet sit. Talk to friends, their family as well as your own. Mention it at your church, hang notices at your local University or College bulletin boards.

If you are house sitting for a number of people, you many want to consider becoming bonded. Bonding protects the homeowner, and will be a selling point for homeowners that you do not know well. Check with your insurance company for information on how to become bonded.

In smaller towns, another option to consider is bank reposed properties. Usually a bank or finance company hires a small company to maintain the properties. Often these are small independent contractors who would consider having house sitter to maintain the property for them.

No matter which option you choose, spend your time wisely. Save those the dollars you would have spent, or take the extra funds to complete your college degree faster and without student loans!