How to Start a House Sitting
in 2026
📅 Last updated: March 07, 2026
House sitting is a growing industry as more people travel, creating a demand for reliable caretakers for homes and pets.
Skip the manual work. Let AI run your business.
Bizzby gives you a full AI team — marketing, sales, bookings, invoicing, client management — for $199/mo. One human VA costs $3,000-$4,000/mo and does a fraction of the work.
Here's how to get started and earning within your first month.
Choose Your Niche
Identify the specific type of house sitting you want to focus on, whether it’s looking after pets, plants, or simply maintaining the home. Research yo...
- Identify the specific type of house sitting you wa — Research your local market to understand the needs of homeowners and consider specializing in certain types of properties or clients. This can help differentiate your services and target your marketin
This step is essential for your House Sitting success.
Set Up Your Business
Register your business name and obtain any needed permits or licenses. Create a business plan outlining your services, target market, and marketing st...
- Register your business name and obtain any needed — Create a business plan outlining your services, target market, and marketing strategies. Set up a dedicated business bank account to keep your finances organized, and consider consulting with an accou
This step is essential for your House Sitting success.
Build Your Service Offering
Define the specific services you will offer, such as checking mail, watering plants, or pet care. Create service packages with clear descriptions and ...
- Define the specific services you will offer, such — Create service packages with clear descriptions and pricing. Consider offering add-on services like home cleaning or maintenance checks to increase revenue potential and provide added value to your cl
This step is essential for your House Sitting success.
Price Your Services
Research what other house sitters in your area charge. Consider a pricing model based on hourly rates or flat fees for specific services. For example,...
- Research what other house sitters in your area cha — Consider a pricing model based on hourly rates or flat fees for specific services. For example, you might charge $25-$50 per day for house sitting, depending on the services provided. Be transparent a
This step is essential for your House Sitting success.
Get Your First Clients
Utilize social media platforms and local classifieds to advertise your services. Create a professional website to showcase your offerings and collect ...
- Utilize social media platforms and local classifie — Create a professional website to showcase your offerings and collect testimonials. Networking with local real estate agents or pet stores can also lead to referrals. Consider offering discounts to you
This step is essential for your House Sitting success.
Detailed breakdown of initial investment needed.
| Item | Budget Start | Professional Setup |
|---|---|---|
| Business Registration | $50-$200 | $50-$200 |
| Essential Equipment/Software | $100-$300 | $100-$300 |
| Website & Marketing | $200-$1000 | $200-$1000 |
| Insurance | $300-$800 | $300-$800 |
| Initial Inventory/Supplies | $50-$200 | $50-$200 |
| Total | $500-$5000 | $500-$5000 |
Income potential varies based on your market, pricing strategy, and growth approach.
Research your local market. Rates vary by location and experience.
Your first two weeks to launch:
Week 1-2: Foundation
- Register your business name and structure
- Get required licenses and insurance
- Set up business bank account
- Create basic website and social media profiles
- Define your service offerings and pricing
Week 3-4: Launch
- Launch marketing campaigns
- Reach out to potential first clients
- Set up booking and payment systems
- Create service contracts and templates
- Make your first sales
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