The single best thing we ever found waiting for us on a kitchen counter wasn't a wad of cash or a complex manual. It was a simple, bag of local coffee a bottle of wine and most importantly a welcome guide that explained everything about the house sit.
That small gesture immediately told us two things: these homeowners respected our time, and they genuinely wanted us to enjoy their home, not just scrub their floors.
If you are reading this, you are likely a homeowner preparing for your first sitter, or perhaps you want to elevate your hosting game.
In our last discussion, we tackled the heavy topic of homeowners who exploit sitters. Today, we are flipping the script entirely. We want to show you how to be the homeowner every sitter fights to sit for.
You don't need to spend a fortune. In fact, most of the "gifts" sitters crave cost absolutely nothing.
The "Welcome Bag" Essentials
If you want to build up your profile and get glowing reviews, a welcome basket is a fantastic shortcut. It sets a tone of gratitude right from the moment you hand over the keys.
You definitely don't have to provide a gift basket. As house sitters ourselves, we never expect them. We don't expect tips or monetary gifts either. However, we certainly won't say no to them if offered!
Here is what actually matters to us when we walk in the door:
1. Local Treats and Basics
We often arrive tired from travel. Finding a few snacks from the area is lovely. It could be a bottle of local wine, some artisan chocolate, or just fresh fruit.
If you want to go the extra mile, think about the first morning. We’ve stayed at places where the owners left us milk, coffee, and bread so we didn't have to sprint to the grocery store immediately. It makes a massive difference.
2. The Gift of Clarity (Communication)
This might not fit in a basket, but it is the most valuable thing you can give. From the moment we apply, we value clear, friendly communication.
Be honest about your requirements. Please do not evade responsibilities until the last minute. If the dog needs medication three times a day, or if the boiler requires a special kick to start, tell us upfront.
There is nothing worse than arriving to find a list of surprise chores that weren't in the listing. If you are worried about what are red flags in a pet sitter, know that sitters look for red flags in owners too, and dishonesty is the biggest one.
The "Invisible" Gifts That Matter Most
While a bottle of Merlot is nice, the physical state of your home is the real welcome gift.
3. A Clean House
This is non-negotiable. The number one complaint in the community isn't bad pets; it's dirty homes.
We have high cleaning standards. We treat your home like our own. But it is very demotivating to arrive at a sit and spend the first four hours cleaning someone else's dirty dishes or scrubbing a toilet just so we can use it.
Give us a clean slate. It motivates us to keep it that way. In fact, knowing what not to do when house sitting usually involves leaving a mess, but that rule applies to homeowners just as much as sitters.
4. Space for Our Life
Remember, we are living there, not just visiting. Clear a shelf in the fridge. Empty a drawer in the bedroom.
We usually travel with our own supplies. We have a box with our food and a box for our clothes. Having a designated spot to put our things makes us feel welcome rather than like intruders.
Why Bother Doing This?
You might be thinking, "I'm already offering free accommodation, why should I do more?"
It comes down to the relationship. House sitting is an exchange, not a transaction. When you treat your sitter like a guest rather than a servant, they will go above and beyond for your home and pets.
Plus, it helps your reputation. On platforms like Trusted House Sitters, reviews are currency. If you want experienced, five-star sitters to apply for your dates, being known as the "generous, welcoming host" is your best strategy.
Summary Checklist for Your Welcome
If you are rushing out the door to catch your flight, here is the quick-fire list of what to leave on the counter:
The Manual: Detailed notes on pet routines and emergency contacts.
The Keys: A spare set is always smart.
The Treat: A small local snack or drink.
The Note: A friendly "Make yourself at home!" goes a long way.
If you are still unsure about the logistics or what information to leave, check out our guide on what to ask a homeowner before you house sit. It works in reverse, helping you anticipate what your sitter needs to know.
Ultimately, being friendly, honest, and clean will win you more points than any expensive gift ever could.
Konrad and Caro 🐾
Do I need to give my house sitter a cash tip or gift?
Generally, no. Most house sitters do not expect cash tips or monetary gifts, as the exchange of free accommodation for pet care is the primary agreement. However, we won't say no if it's offered! A small welcome gift is a lovely bonus but never a requirement.
What are the best items to put in a welcome basket for a sitter?
The best items are local treats that help the sitter settle in. Think along the lines of a bottle of wine, local snacks, chocolate, or even breakfast basics like coffee and bread. It’s a thoughtful way to say "welcome" after their long travel day.
besides a gift basket, how can I make my house sitter feel welcome?
The best welcome is a clean house. Ensuring your home is tidy and that you have cleared space in the fridge and drawers for their belongings is more important than any physical gift. Clear, honest communication about pet responsibilities is also highly valued.
Should I buy groceries for my house sitter?
You don't need to do a full weekly shop, but leaving the basics is incredibly helpful. Things like milk, coffee, tea, and perhaps a loaf of bread prevent the sitter from having to rush to a supermarket the moment they arrive.
How detailed should my welcome notes be?
Be as honest and detailed as possible. Don't evade responsibilities or hide quirks about the house until the last minute. Sitters appreciate knowing exactly what is expected regarding pet medication, watering plants, or household maintenance right from the start.
