As a homeowner, it can be challenging to decide which is the best option for protecting your home when you are away for vacation, a business trip or an extended period. Both house sitters and Home Watch professionals offer solutions for ensuring that your home remains safe and secure. However, when it comes to making the best choice, there are a number of key factors that show why you should choose a Home Watch professional.

What is a House Sitter?

A house sitter is someone you hire (or ask) to live in your home while you’re away. It can be a friend, neighbor, relative, or a stranger that you engage for a period of time to typically care for your pets, water plants, bring in the mail, and keep the home running. They may offer a level of security, but lack the necessary experience or training, licensing or insurance in the case of loss or damage while they are there. They can also be unreliable and untrustworthy. How do you really know that they are caring for your home, aren’t going through your belongings, or are even present when you expect them to be? There is also no regular reporting of your home’s condition.

What is a Home Watch Professional?

A Home Watch professional is a trained and experienced individual who regularly inspects and maintains your home while you are away. This person has the knowledge and skills to identify potential problems before they become larger issues, and has the resources to handle issues quickly and efficiently. They are also insured, bonded and background-checked, and follow a strict Code of Ethics through the National Home Watch Association, providing an extra layer of protection for homeowners. They will also be able to manage any home repairs on your behalf, using their professional network.

The Benefits of a Home Watch Professional

• Regular inspections. Your Home Watch professional will visit your home on a pre-determined schedule and provide you with a detailed report after each visit. This means potential problems and can identified and addressed, helping you to save time and money in the long run.
• Maintenance and upkeep. Regular maintenance tasks like checking the HVAC system, draining water from pipes, changing filters and light bulbs, and ensuring the property is secure not only helps keep your home in good condition, you feel secure knowing that someone is serving as your eyes, ears and feet on the ground.
• Emergency response. In the event of an emergency, such as a broken water pipe or power outage, your Home Watch professional can quickly respond and take the necessary next steps, like contacting first responders and scheduling repair or cleanup services. This is crucial for preventing further damage to your property.
• Security and peace of mind. Your Home Watch professional regularly checks the locks, windows and doors of your home to ensure they are secure. Any signs of tampering or potential security risks are noted and resolved. This provides an additional layer of protection.

Why Choose a Home Watch Professional Over a House Sitter?

1. Training and experience. Your Home Watch professional is trained and experience in the maintenance and security of a home. House sitters may not have this level of experience of expertise.
2. Access to resources. A trusted network of electricians, plumbers, and other professionals ensure your home is well taken care of when you’re away.
3. Flexibility. A house sitter typically requires a long-term commitment, and that person may or may not live up to your expectations. A Home Watch service can offer flexible and reliable services to meet your specific needs and schedule.

For Reliable Services, Choose Golden Rule Home Watch

When you need to leave your home for an extended time, choosing a Home Watch professional like Golden Rule Home Watch & Concierge is your best option. With their training, experience and access to resources, they provide the peace of mind and security you need.

Golden Rule serves homeowners throughout the Northern Virginia region with high-quality Home Watch and concierge services. Let us design a Home Watch program tailored to your needs. Contact us at 855-928-2424 today for a free initial consultation.