Today, there is a job or service as vacation home caretaker. It serves the people in watching over a summer or vacation home when the owner is not there. The vacation home caretaker also supervises maintenance, including lawn mowing, snow removal, winterizing. They also check for storm damage and represent the homeowner in any emergency repairs.
One of the best tools of a caretaker is an up-to-date Rolodex of dependable electricians, plumbers, carpenters, landscapers, snow removal companies, and cleaning services who will respond to your call on behalf of your client. You should have a working knowledge of home systems and repairs. To spread this service or market this job, contact area electricians, plumbers, landscapers, contractors, and rental agents to let them know of your services. Ask them to let their own clients know about you; in return, you can promise to engage them for any necessary work. Place ads on community bulletin boards, in stores, and in newspapers. Ask friends and acquaintances to spread the word about your availability.
Expenses are principally for advertising and promotion. Any travel and services provided are billed to your client. For the cost, most caretakers charge a fixed rate for devoting a minimum number of hours each month to scheduled visits to the home, inspections, and supervision of scheduled services such as landscaping. Additional charges are levied (by the hour) for supervising emergency repairs, renovations, and construction. The contract with the client should include payment of a month or two in advance as a retainer, with regular monthly billing.