Home Alone: Strategies For Keeping Your House Safe And Sound While You're Away

If you're planning a long-term trip, you'll need to decide what to do with your house. While homeownership used to be seen as a barrier to long-term travel, there are now several options available to homeowners.

If you want to return to your home after your trip, you could rent out your property. This provides additional income and ensures your home stays occupied and secure. However, there are associated costs, such as insurance and property management fees, and you will need to check that your home meets legal letting standards.

Another option is to list your home on Airbnb. This can bring in more money than traditional renting, but it may be difficult to manage bookings while travelling. You could also consider a house swap or exchange, which can be a cost-effective way to secure free accommodation.

If you're not planning on returning home, you could sell your property and use the money to fund your travels. However, this option may be dependent on property prices and the state of the market.

For renters, the process is often more straightforward. If your lease ends before your trip, you can give your landlord notice, find a place to store your belongings, and, if necessary, arrange accommodation for when you return.

Rent your house out to a tenant

Renting your house out to a tenant whilst travelling can be a great way to ensure your property stays occupied and secure, and can also provide additional income to fund your trip. Here are some things to consider if you're thinking of going down this route:

Legal and Safety Requirements

Firstly, you'll need to check that your home meets all the legal and safety requirements for renting. This includes having a Gas Safety Certificate and a current Energy Performance Certificate, as well as meeting the Health and Safety Rating System requirements. These cover aspects such as electrical safety, ensuring the property is damp-free, and that flooring is in good condition to avoid any accidents.

Finding a Tenant

You could find a tenant by advertising your property in the local newspaper, on websites like Craigslist, or on Airbnb. If you know someone who is looking for a place to rent, you could also reach out to them directly. Consider whether you want to rent to a stranger or someone you know, like a friend or family member.

Working with an Agent

Using a letting agent can take some of the stress out of renting your property. They can help you correctly value your property, find a suitable tenant, and manage the tenancy whilst you're away. Make sure you choose an agent who is a member of the Association of Residential Letting Agents, as this guarantees they have the necessary insurance and are likely to keep up with new legal requirements.

Insurance and Mortgages

Don't forget to take out landlord insurance to protect yourself in case any problems arise. If you have a mortgage, check with your loan provider that they allow you to let your home. You may need to review your mortgage options with a broker to find the best rate.

Preparing Your Property

Before handing over the keys, you'll need to decide whether to rent your property furnished or unfurnished. If you choose to leave your furniture, you'll still need to remove most of your personal possessions and store them somewhere safe. Give your property a thorough clean, and consider whether there are any maintenance tasks that need to be done before your tenant moves in.

Remember that renting out your property comes with some risks, including the possibility of problem tenants or unexpected costs. However, with careful planning and the right support, it can be a great way to fund your travels and ensure your home is well-cared for in your absence.

List your home on Airbnb

If you're a homeowner, one option to consider when going travelling is to list your home on Airbnb. This can be a great way to make some extra money while you're away, and it can also provide peace of mind knowing that your home is being looked after. Here are some things to keep in mind if you're thinking of going down this route:

Legal and Financial Considerations:

Before listing your property on Airbnb, it's important to check that it's legal to do so in your area. There may be specific requirements you need to meet, such as obtaining a Gas Safety Certificate and an Energy Performance Certificate. It's also important to review your mortgage agreement and inform your loan provider of your plans, as there may be restrictions on letting your property. Additionally, keep in mind that listing sites like Airbnb typically charge a small fee, so be sure to factor this into your ongoing costs.

Preparing Your Home:

When preparing your home for Airbnb guests, it's essential to declutter and remove any precious items. You may need to invest in some new furniture and decorations to make the space appealing to guests. High-quality, professional photos of your space are crucial for attracting bookings, so consider hiring a photographer with experience in real estate photography.

Creating the Listing:

To create an Airbnb listing, go to the website and select the "Become a Host" option. You'll need to provide specific details about your property type, location, number of guests, and amenities offered. It's important to be accurate and descriptive in your listing to attract the right guests and manage their expectations. Set a competitive price by researching similar listings in your area, and consider offering a discount to early bookers.

Managing the Property:

When managing your Airbnb property, it's essential to provide a seamless check-in experience for your guests. Ensure you give clear instructions and contact information, and consider investing in a digital keyless entry system or a portable key lock box. Maintain excellent cleanliness and stock up on quality amenities, such as high-speed Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and luxurious linens. You may also want to hire a cleaning service to ensure your property is always guest-ready.

By following these steps, you can successfully list your home on Airbnb and generate additional income while you're off exploring the world!

House-sitting

There are several benefits to house-sitting. Firstly, it ensures that your house is well-taken care of and reduces the chances of damage, burglary, or robbery. Additionally, if you have pets, they can be cared for in the comfort of their own home, which is less stressful for them than being boarded or rehomed. House-sitting can also be a cost-effective option, as you won't have to pay for pet care or boarding, and the house sitter may be willing to perform additional tasks for a small fee.

To find a house sitter, start by reaching out to your network of friends and family. You can also use dedicated house-sitting websites, such as TrustedHousesitters and Aussie House Sitters, to find reliable individuals. It's important to find someone you trust and feel comfortable with, as they will be living in your home and taking care of your belongings.

Before departing on your travels, be sure to prepare your home for the house sitter. This includes tasks such as cleaning the house, securing valuables, and providing instructions for any necessary tasks or maintenance. It's also a good idea to meet with your house sitter beforehand to establish expectations and answer any questions they may have.

During your travels, stay in communication with your house sitter to ensure that everything is going smoothly. Provide them with emergency contacts and any other relevant information they may need. Additionally, consider setting up a system for them to regularly update you on the status of your home, such as through email or text messages.

By arranging for a house sitter, you can have peace of mind knowing that your home and pets are being cared for in your absence. This allows you to fully enjoy your travels without worrying about the security and maintenance of your property. House-sitting is a great option to consider if you want a cost-effective and reliable solution for taking care of your home while you are away.

Home swapping

When participating in a home swap, you become part of a network that provides a cashless exchange between individuals who share a love for travel and foster a sense of global community. There are various online platforms that facilitate home swapping, such as Kindred, Home Exchange, and People Like Us, which offer annual or monthly memberships. Some platforms, like Home Exchange, even include insurance as part of the membership for greater peace of mind.

To get started, you'll need to list your property on one of these platforms and wait for requests while also making your own. It's important to be proactive and put effort into creating a detailed profile and reaching out to potential swappers. You can also utilise social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok to connect with fellow travellers interested in home swaps.

Once you've found a potential match, be sure to vet the other party by asking for references and checking reviews and previous swap experiences. It's also essential to read your home insurance policy to ensure you're covered during the swap.

Sell your house

If you're planning to sell your house before going travelling, the first step is to talk to a real estate agent as soon as possible. The more time you give yourself, the better. While this may mean that your house sells earlier than you'd ideally like, it's probably preferable to having to find somewhere to live while also paying your mortgage. So, start paring down, get your house on the market, and begin showing it to prospective buyers.

Before you do all this, though, have a contingency plan in place for both selling your house early and not selling it before you leave. If you sell early, where will you live? Do you have family or friends you can stay with? Have you looked into short-term rental options? Can you bring your trip forward? If your departure date is nearing and you haven't sold yet, can you delay your trip? How many months can you afford to pay your mortgage while you're on the road? Knowing what you're going to do in every situation will make everything less stressful.

If you do decide to sell, you can then either rent or sell your possessions. If you're going to be travelling long-term, you'll probably want to sell most of your possessions, keeping only the most important or valuable items. You can sell your possessions in a garage sale, online, or through local buy-swap-sell Facebook groups.

If you're planning to sell up and travel with your family, you'll need to do some research. Different countries have different rules about how long you can stay, what visas you need, and what taxes you'll be liable for. You'll also need to consider things like health and education requirements, and whether you'll need to find work while you're away.

Frequently asked questions