How to start a house sitting business: your first moves

Starting a house sitting business is an exciting venture that combines trustworthiness and a love for homes with smart business sense. The low startup costs make it an accessible field to enter, but that accessibility means you'll face competition.

This guide will take you through the practical steps of validating your business concept, obtaining necessary permits, and defining your service area to help you launch a successful house sitting business in the U.S.

Step 1: Research your market and plan your finances

Define your services and research competitors

First, get a feel for your local market. Check neighborhood forums like Nextdoor or local Facebook groups to see what services homeowners request. This direct feedback helps you understand demand before you spend a dime.

Next, look at your competition. Search platforms like Rover and TrustedHousesitters for sitters in your area. Note their services, rates, and reviews. A frequent misstep is to compete on price alone. Instead, focus on offering premium services that justify a higher rate.

Calculate your startup costs

With your services in mind, it is time to budget. Your initial investment can be quite manageable. Most of your expenses will be for legitimacy and protection, which builds client trust from day one.

Here is a typical breakdown of what you might spend:

• Business Registration: $50 - $150, depending on your state and city.
• Liability Insurance: $300 - $600 annually. This protects you and is a major selling point for clients.
• Background Check: $20 - $60. Many clients will expect this.
• Basic Marketing: $50 - $100 for business cards and local flyers.

Your total initial outlay could range from about $420 to $970. While insurance represents a significant part of this, consider it a foundational investment in your professional reputation and peace of mind.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• List three local competitors and the main services they offer.
• Draft a preliminary menu of your services with starting prices.
• Create a startup budget based on the cost estimates above.
• Get quotes from two different providers for house sitter liability insurance.

Step 2: Establish your legal structure and get licensed

Choose your business structure

You can start as a sole proprietorship, which is simple and requires no formal action. However, this structure does not separate your personal assets from your business. Many new sitters make this mistake, which exposes them to personal financial risk.

You might want to consider forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC). An LLC protects your personal assets if your business faces a lawsuit. It costs between $50 and $500 to file, depending on your state, but it adds a layer of professionalism and security.

Secure your business license

House sitting itself rarely requires a special federal or state license. Your main focus will be local. You will likely need a general business license from your city or county clerk’s office. This is the primary regulatory step for most small service businesses.

Expect to pay a fee of $50 to $100 for this license. The application process is usually straightforward, and you can often receive your permit within a few weeks. Check your local government's website for the specific form, often called a "Business Tax Receipt" or "Certificate of Occupancy."

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Decide if a sole proprietorship or an LLC is right for you.
• Visit your Secretary of State's website to check LLC formation fees.
• Find your city or county clerk's website online.
• Search for the application for a general business license.

Step 3: Insure your business and manage risks

Secure the right insurance coverage

Insurance is your professional safety net. General liability is the baseline, as it covers accidents like property damage. Aim for at least $1 million in coverage, with annual premiums from $300 to $600. A mistake some sitters make is to stop there.

You should also get bonding, which protects you against accusations of theft. It costs about $100 to $250 annually and is a powerful trust signal. Also, consider professional liability insurance to cover claims of negligence in your duties.

Work with an insurer that understands this business. General agents may not grasp the risks. Look into specialists like Pet Care Insurance, Business Insurers of the Carolinas, or PSA (Pet Sitters Associates) for tailored policies.

Create your client contract and forms

A solid client agreement is your first line of defense. This contract should outline your responsibilities, emergency procedures, and payment terms. Also, use a detailed intake form to document the home's condition and pet needs before you start.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Request quotes for a $1 million general liability policy.
• Ask insurers about adding bonding and professional liability.
• Review sample contracts from an industry group like Pet Sitters International.
• Draft a client intake form that notes pre-existing home or pet issues.

Step 4: Set up your mobile office and equipment

Your business location is your client's home

Unlike a retail shop, your business operates on-site, so you do not need to worry about commercial leases or zoning laws. Your home base is for administrative tasks. The real work happens at your client’s property, which simplifies your setup significantly.

Gather your professional gear

Your equipment demonstrates your professionalism. While you do not need much, a few key items build client confidence and prepare you for anything. Many new sitters get caught with a dead phone, so a portable power bank is a smart purchase.

Here is what you should have in your go-bag:

• Secure Lockbox: A contractor-grade lockbox, around $20-$40, prevents lost keys. It is much safer than leaving a key under the mat.
• Portable Power Bank: For $20-$50, you can keep your phone charged for client updates and emergencies.
• Pet First-Aid Kit: You can buy a pre-made kit for $25-$50 or assemble your own. This shows you are prepared for minor pet incidents.

With these items, you show up looking prepared and trustworthy. This small investment in gear pays dividends in client trust and positive reviews.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Designate a space in your home for administrative work.
• Purchase a contractor-grade lockbox from a hardware store.
• Buy a portable power bank with at least 10,000mAh capacity.
• Assemble or purchase a dedicated pet first-aid kit.

Step 5: Set up your payment and booking systems

Establish your payment terms

A standard practice is to require a 50% deposit upon booking to secure the dates. The remaining 50% is then due on the first day of service. This structure protects you from last-minute cancellations and ensures client commitment.

Some new sitters forget to define these terms upfront. Be sure to include payment due dates and your cancellation policy directly in your client agreement to avoid confusion or delayed payments down the road.

Choose a payment processor

For payments on the go, JIM offers a streamlined solution. It lets you accept debit, credit, and digital wallets on your smartphone. At just 1.99% per transaction with no hidden fees or hardware, it is very competitive. Other processors often charge 2.5% to 3.5%.

This is particularly useful for collecting final payments at the start of a sit or for handling unexpected expenses, like a vet visit, that the client agrees to cover immediately. You get paid instantly without any hassle.

Here is how to get started:

• Get Started: Download the JIM app for iOS.
• Make a Sale: Type the sales amount, hit sell, and ask your customer to tap their card or device on your phone.
• Access Funds: Your money is available on your JIM card as soon as the sale is done. There is no waiting for bank transfers.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Add your payment terms (50% deposit, 50% on start date) to your client contract.
• Decide which payment methods you will accept, including cards and digital wallets.
• Compare JIM's 1.99% rate to other payment options.
• Download the JIM app to explore its features.

Step 6: Fund your launch and manage your money

Secure your startup funds

Your startup costs are low, so you can likely self-fund with personal savings. This is the simplest route, as it keeps you out of debt. It is a path many successful sitters take when they first start.

If you need a small amount of capital, you might want to look into an SBA Microloan. These government-backed loans range from $500 to $50,000 and are designed for new businesses. Interest rates usually fall between 8% and 13%.

Set up your financial system

Plan to have $1,000 to $2,000 in working capital for your first six months. This reserve covers insurance, marketing, and other costs before your client base is fully established. It provides a buffer for a smooth start.

A frequent misstep is to mix personal and business finances. Open a separate business checking account right away. Also, use a simple spreadsheet or a free app like Wave to track every dollar in and out. This makes tax time much easier.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Open a dedicated business checking account.
• Research SBA Microloan lenders in your state.
• Create a six-month operating budget that includes your working capital.
• Set up a spreadsheet to log all your business income and expenses.

Step 7: Hire your first team members and set up operations

Build your team

To grow beyond your personal schedule, you will need to hire other sitters. Most new businesses use independent contractors instead of employees. This approach gives you flexibility without the complexity of payroll taxes.

You will want to pay your contractors a percentage of the job fee, typically 60-70%. For example, on a $100 booking, your sitter earns $60-$70. A mistake some owners make is hiring informally. Always use an independent contractor agreement to define pay and responsibilities.

Set up your operational systems

While not legally required, having your team complete a Pet First Aid & CPR course builds immense client trust. You can find these courses through the American Red Cross. This small step sets you apart from casual sitters.

Once you have more than one or two sitters, a spreadsheet will not be enough. You might want to consider scheduling software like Time To Pet or Pet Sitter Plus. These platforms manage bookings, client details, and sitter assignments in one place.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Draft an independent contractor agreement for new sitters.
• Research local or online Pet First Aid & CPR certification courses.
• Explore a free trial for a scheduling software like Time To Pet.
• Decide on the payment percentage you will offer your contractors.

Step 8: Market your business and find clients

Build your online presence

A professional online footprint gives potential clients a place to see your services and rates. You can create a simple one-page website or a dedicated Facebook Business Page. This acts as your digital storefront and a central hub for information.

Some new sitters just use their personal social media, but a business page appears far more professional. It also lets you collect reviews and run targeted ads later. Use high-quality photos of yourself to build trust instantly.

Tap into your local community

Your best clients are often nearby. You should connect with local businesses that serve homeowners and pet owners. Introduce yourself to veterinarians, pet groomers, and even real estate agents. They can become a great source of referrals.

Do not underestimate physical materials. A well-designed business card or flyer can work wonders. A targeted drop of 200 flyers in an affluent neighborhood might yield two to four inquiries, a solid return for a small investment in printing.

Once you complete your first few jobs, ask for a review immediately. Positive testimonials are your most powerful marketing asset. You can feature these on your website or social media page to build credibility with new prospects.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Create a dedicated Facebook Business Page for your service.
• Design and order 100 professional business cards.
• List three local vets or groomers you can visit this week.
• Write a short, polite email template to request client testimonials.

Step 9: Set your pricing strategy

Choose your pricing model

Most house sitters charge a flat per-night rate. This typically ranges from $40 to $75. Your rate should reflect your experience and the local cost of living. A mistake some new sitters make is to forget to charge for extras, which can significantly boost your income.

You should create a menu of add-on services. For example, you could charge an extra $5 to $10 per night for each additional pet. You might also add fees for tasks like watering a large garden or administering medication. This clarifies expectations and ensures you are paid fairly.

Research your local market rates

With your pricing model in mind, look at what competitors charge on sites like Rover or local Facebook groups. Do not just copy the lowest price you find. Instead, position your service based on value. Your insurance, background check, and professionalism justify a higher rate.

Since your main input is time, your profit margin on each job is high before you account for taxes and business costs. A successful strategy is to price yourself in the top 25% of your market and clearly communicate why you are worth it.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Research the nightly rates of five other house sitters in your city.
• Create a rate sheet with your base price and fees for add-on services.
• Decide on a discount for extended stays, such as 10% off for seven nights or more.
• Calculate your target weekly income based on your proposed rates.

Step 10: Maintain quality and scale your operations

Establish your quality standards

As you grow, consistent service is key. You should require every sitter on your team to hold a Pet First Aid & CPR certification. This is a non-negotiable standard that protects pets and reassures clients about your professionalism.

To measure performance, send a simple post-job survey asking clients for a 1-5 star rating. Your goal should be to maintain an average score of 4.8 or higher. This metric gives you a clear view of client satisfaction.

Many owners run into trouble with inconsistent service. To avoid this, create a standardized checklist for sitters. It should detail every task from arrival to departure, ensuring every client receives the same high level of care.

Know when to grow

Growth should be data-driven. A good rule of thumb is to hire your first contractor when you start turning down two or three jobs per week because you are fully booked. This prevents you from losing valuable business.

Once you manage three or more sitters, spreadsheets are no longer reliable for scheduling. You might want to consider dedicated software like Time To Pet or Pet Sitter Plus. These platforms reduce the risk of double-bookings or missed appointments.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Create a standardized checklist for sitters to use on every job.
• Draft a simple, one-question survey to measure client satisfaction.
• Set your personal benchmark for when to hire your first contractor.
• Sign up for a free trial of a scheduling software like Time To Pet.

You now have a clear path to launch your house sitting business. Remember, your real service is providing homeowners with peace of mind. Build that trust with every client, and your reputation will become your strongest asset. You are ready to begin.

As you manage your bookings, make sure getting paid is just as professional. JIM turns your smartphone into a card reader, so you can accept payments on the spot for a simple 1.99% fee without extra hardware. Download JIM to get started.