A retired couple, Barbara and Lawrence Blackwood, aged 72 and 75, have shared how they make money and explore the UK through home-sitting. They began home-sitting in 2017 to stay active in their retirement. Home-sitting involves caring for someone’s home and occasionally looking after their pets while they are away.
Barbara, a former administrative secretary, and Lawrence, a retired police officer, now undertake approximately one home sit per month, spending nearly half of the year away from home. Barbara expressed, “After retiring, we didn’t want to be idle. Home-sitting was a perfect fit for us.”
Home-sitters earn a minimum of £333.06 for a two-week assignment without pets. Taking care of two dogs and a cat pays £367.92 for the same period. The duties involve about one hour and 45 minutes per day, with a daily food allowance included. Travel expenses for initial meetings and assignments are also reimbursed.
The couple, residing in Perthshire, Scotland, have found that home-sitting helps them save on utility bills, especially during the cold winter months. Barbara estimates savings of around £47 per month during a winter assignment spanning three to four weeks, averaging £31 per month from September to April.
Barbara highlighted that travel expenses to and from assignments are covered, often reserved for holidays, along with a daily food allowance. They also receive a modest payment for the assignments, and additional compensation may be provided based on the tasks, such as the number of pets involved.
The couple has explored various locations in Scotland through home-sitting, broadening their travel experiences. Lawrence mentioned, “We’ve visited numerous places in Scotland and enjoyed every moment. The flexibility and diversity make it truly special.”
He added, “It’s like a short getaway—a self-catering vacation. While there are responsibilities, the experience is rewarding and fulfilling. We take pride in enabling others to enjoy a worry-free vacation knowing their pets are well cared for.”
Barbara emphasized that their top priority is the well-being of the animals they look after. She stated, “Our role is to ensure that pets feel safe, secure, and comfortable in their familiar routines.”
With nearly a decade of home-sitting experience, they have gained regular repeat assignments, with one family consistently welcoming them back since their debut in 2017. Barbara concluded, “We have never regretted our choice. It has given us a lifestyle we genuinely cherish.”