From Sitter to Resident: Try Out a City Before Moving

Some people when considering moving home try housesitting as a way to test before moving from sitter to resident in a new location. As a housesitter you learn a lot about this new town or city by living in it first, and working out if it has all the facilities and amenities you need before relocating and moving your home. Read on to learn more top tips about housesitting to learn more before making a big move to a new location.

Try a New City by Housesitting Then Transition From Sitter to Resident

before transitioning from pet sitter to resident experience all you can in the town ideally on foot — Before transitioning from house and pet sitter to resident experience all you can on foot in the town
Photo credit – Crina

One of the ways our housesitters discover a new place to live is by housesitting and discovering the city or town from the grass roots. There is no better way to learn about how a place works, it’s transport systems, amenities and all round character than by living in it for a trial period. And what better way than by housesitting in a typical neighbourhood, living like the locals do.

There are so many insights you can gain before moving from sitter to resident in a new city. Housesitting enables you to learn about the people, their way of life, their access to the amenities and facilities you find important.

You can also learn about their culture, their shopping habits and facilities and of course the day to day cost of living which can be critical for any decision about where to move home.

Discover the Local Resources and Amenities

a colourful display of tropical fruit and chillies on a market stall — Local farmers markets can offer great deals on fresh local produce – a bonus for any sitters living like locals
Photo credit – Lamia Walker

As a housesitter you often spend time locally walking dogs or near the property discovering all you can on foot or within the reach of local transport. So looking for the location of local parks to walk dogs, or public libraries to find out about local events and activity groups can be very illuminating.

Local markets offer a great resource if the town or city has space to allow local farmers and crafts people to sell their goods. You may also find the produce offered to be better value than some shops.

Learning About the Local Community

The first thing housesitters often discover is the sense of community, first in the neighbourhood, then in the local gathering places and finally in the open parks and community spaces.

Depending on your time of life, and why you are moving will influence what you are looking for in a new home town. If you have a family with children then you’ll be looking for good school communities and sports facilities and public playgrounds for the children. If you are retired perhaps your search for a home and access to amenities will lean in altogether another direction.

Before you make the transition from sitter to resident in this new town be sure to research the type of living environment that will suit you best.

Deciding to Stay Longer in the New City

furnished apartment with a neutral decor — Finding a flexible rental in the city can help you decide whether to transition from sitter to resident here
Photo credit – Minh Pham

After your housesit is over you may want to stay a little longer to explore real estate or a new neighbourhood. Consider staying a short term rental. You can find reliable verified mid-term flexible rentals that will allow you to stay in your new chosen city while you explore more thoroughly and decide on your next step to transition from sitter to resident.

Thinking of moving to a new town?

Taking a little more time to live in this new city could make all the difference between moving to a city you like and finding the right neighbourhood for you. Take time to consider all the features you like in a city and where you would like to be located.

And finding a good rental following on from your housesit could give you just enough time to make the right choice.

Become a housesitter to try housesitting in a city you fancy living in and get the ball rolling.

Join HouseSitMatch.com as a housesitter