Unlock the Secret to Homeownership: How House Sitting in New Zealand Can Help You Save

House sitting in New Zealand is a great way to save up for your first home. By living in someone else’s home for a specified period of time, you can reduce your housing costs significantly, allowing you to allocate more of your income towards saving for a down payment on your first home. Below we’ve put together some information for you on how house sitting works, the benefits it offers, and some tips on how to find the right house-sitting opportunity in New Zealand through NZ House Sitters.

What is house sitting in New Zealand?

House sitting is quite a simple concept. You agree to live in someone else’s home and take care of it and any pets they may have while they are away. House-sitting positions can last for just a few days, a couple of weeks, or even a few months. In exchange for your services, you get to live in the house rent-free.

How can house sitting save you money?

As the average cost of rent in New Zealand can be quite high, especially in bigger cities like Auckland and Wellington, house sitting can be a great way to save on those housing costs. Additionally, the homeowners will cover the cost of electricity, water, and other utilities, which means more money in your pocket. Plus, you’ll have access to the appliances and other amenities for free.

One of the best things about house sitting is that it’s flexible. You can choose to house sit for a few days, a few weeks, or a few months, depending on your schedule and needs. This means you can continue working your full-time job while still enjoying the benefits of reduced housing costs.

One of the biggest benefits of house-sitting is the ability to live in a new area temporarily. This can help you get a feel for the neighbourhood, the local amenities, and the cost of living, which can be incredibly valuable when it comes time to buy a home. It’s also a great way to make new connections and friends.

Finding a house sit in New Zealand

So how do you find the right house-sitting opportunity in New Zealand? There are a few different options to consider. For one, you could use local classified sites which occasionally list a house sitting position, however the better option to sign up for a house sitter membership on NZ House Sitters. You’ll have access for 12 months and no limits to the number of applications you send.

Things to remember when applying for a house sit in New Zealand

When looking for a house-sitting opportunity, it’s important to be clear about your expectations and needs. Be upfront about your desired length of stay, your experiences, and the areas you’re available to house sit in. This will help you find the right match and avoid any misunderstandings down the road. You can provide all this information in your house sitter profile. Be open and honest about yourself and your abilities with the homeowner to avoid any misunderstanding later down the track.

Join NZ House Sitters

Being a House Sitter offers a world of opportunity, not only to save money on rent, but also to get to know other people and new places.

House Sitters get the opportunity to travel cost effectively, see and experience communities and regions of New Zealand. This leads to vast opportunities, both personally and professionally.