Homesitting is a Flexible Side Hustle for Early Retirees to Boost Income and Enjoy “Mini Holidays”

Recent research by Oxford Risk[i] reveals that half of over-55s worry their retirement savings won’t last a lifetime. Meanwhile, findings from Just Group’s Countdown to Retirement survey[ii] show that two-thirds of over-55s retire before reaching the State Pension Age of 66, raising concerns about financial security in later life.

In response to these worries, Homesitters Ltd, a leading home and pet-sitting company, says that homesitting can be the perfect flexible work solution for early retirees. It allows them to top up their income while staying active, enjoying new experiences, and caring for homes and pets across the UK.

Ben Irvine, Director of Operations at Homesitters Ltd, said: “Homesitting gives those thinking about early retirement the opportunity to earn extra income, stay engaged, and travel – all while looking after pets and homes. It’s a win-win, providing both financial rewards and personal fulfilment. For those ready to retire early, homesitting offers a way to dive right in.”

One couple who have done just that are Donna and Frank Mountain, aged 58 and 60, from North Yorkshire. They’ve been homesitting for nearly four years, embracing the freedom to travel and explore new places while experiencing “mini holidays” with no accommodation costs. The extra income they earn is used to fund their own holidays, making homesitting a rewarding and fulfilling retirement activity.

Frank Mountain, a former RAF serviceman, and his wife Donna, who worked as a teaching assistant, were keen to stay busy after early retirement, while exploring different parts of the country.

“Now we’re retired, we can go away whenever we want, and homesitting makes that possible,” says Donna. “It’s the perfect way to travel without the high accommodation costs while enjoying the company of pets. Every homesit is a new adventure.”

Since starting their homesitting journey, they have travelled as far south as Kensington and as far north as Scotland and the variety of animals has been immense from sheep, hens and chickens to bearded dragons, axolotls, carp, goldfish, cats, and dogs.

“We’ve looked after so many types of animals – every assignment is a new challenge, but we love learning about each pet’s needs,” Donna says.

Frank adds, “We also love the variety of homes we stay in. Each booking feels like a mini holiday, and it keeps us active. We’ve even reduced our energy bills by being away more often – another great bonus.”

With many repeat bookings, Donna and Frank have built lasting friendships with homeowners and pets, enjoying the return visits to familiar faces.

“One of the best parts is building relationships with homeowners and their pets,” Frank explains. “We’ve made so many friends, and it’s always great to be asked back to care for animals we’ve grown attached to.”

The couple highly recommends homesitting for early retirees, saying: “It’s a fantastic way to stay active, enjoy new experiences, and still feel retired.”

Homesitters Ltd is actively recruiting and looking for reliable, animal-loving people who want to stay active, enjoy travel, and earn extra income.

To find out more about turning homesitting into a rewarding opportunity, visit: www.homesitters.co.uk