You’ve planned out almost every detail of your vacation, but have you given any thought to what will happen to your house while you’re away? It can save a lot of headaches and surprises to have someone stay in your home to keep an eye on things. If you have pets that won’t be going with you, you can rest assured they are cared for while you’re gone.
<h4><strong>House Sitter</strong>: Here is a list of things to consider before you go to make sure things go as planned, and they feel at home.</h4><ul><li>Make a set of spare keys to the house and any other areas you keep locked <em>(gates, garage, pool, mailbox, etc.)</em></li><li>Print instructions on how to operate remote controls, air conditioning/heat, shut-off valves for water and gas, and addressing any of your home’s quirks </li><li>Post a list of important numbers, including your travel itinerary and contact details, police, fire, alarm company info, and a neighbor’s phone number <em>(let the neighbors know you’ll have someone staying in your home)</em></li><li>If your house sitter is caring for your pets, leave detailed instructions and the vet’s number</li><li>Outline the house sitter’s responsibilities and be clear on your expectations: putting out and bringing in the trash, collecting mail and newspapers, watering indoor and outdoor plants, receiving deliveries, monitoring the gardener, cleaning lady or dog walker</li><li>Leave a notebook and pen near your phone for messages</li><li>Be sure you leave clean towels, a fresh bar of soap, shampoo & conditioner in the bathroom</li><li>Make some space in a closet and empty a drawer for their clothing</li><li>Make the bed with clean sheets or leave them out for a pull-out sofa</li><li>Stock your kitchen with food and beverages for the house sitter</li></ul><h4>If you can’t afford a house sitter or don’t have someone willing to volunteer their services, take the following steps before you leave your home to make sure things are safe and secure when you return.</h4><ul><li>Inform a trusted neighbor or friend that you will be away</li><li>Empty all trash cans and take out the garbage or ask someone to do it while you’re away</li><li>Run the dishwasher and empty the fridge</li><li>Stop the paper & mail or arrange for someone to pick it up</li><li>Put visible lights on timers so it appears someone is home</li><li>Put your air conditioning or heat on an energy efficient program</li><li>Lock doors and windows and set an alarm if you have one</li></ul><p> </p>
