Comparison of Home Watch, Property Management and House Sitter
Primary Focus and Responsibilities
OUR
HOME WATCH
SERVICES
- Dedicated to you, the homeowner, and your home’s condition.
- Aim to maintain your home’s condition for your return.
- Frequent inspections to catch small issues before they become big problems.
- Proactive care, treating your home as if it were our own.
- Act as your eyes, ears, and boots on the ground.
PROPERTY
MANAGEMENT
COMPANY
- Manage multiple areas, with a priority on vacation rentals.
- Also handle long-term rentals and property sales.
- Time spent on keeping properties rented and dealing with tenant issues.
- May not be aware of problems until after damage occurs.
HOUSE SITTER
or
NEIGHBOR
- House sitters live in your home but are not licensed, insured, or bonded.
- Neighbors may watch your home as a favor, which can be a burden.
Communication
OUR
HOME WATCH
SERVICES
- Send detailed reports after each inspection.
- Provide direct and consistent communication with you.
PROPERTY
MANAGEMENT
COMPANY
- Generally do not send detailed inspection reports.
- Contact usually made only if a problem exists.
HOUSE SITTER
or
NEIGHBOR
- House sitters or neighbors may hesitate to notify you of issues while you’re away.
Project Coordination Services
OUR
HOME WATCH
SERVICES
- Coordinate home maintenance, deliveries, and larger projects.
- In-house handyman for convenience and faster resolution of minor issues.
- Oversee scheduling and ensure that work is done efficiently while you’re away.
PROPERTY
MANAGEMENT
COMPANY
- Coordination is typically limited to tenant-reported issues.
- Focus is often on rental properties, so project coordination may not be a priority.
HOUSE SITTER
or
NEIGHBOR
- May not have the expertise to coordinate home maintenance or larger projects.
- Unlikely to handle deliveries or oversee contractors.
- Any issues found will likely need to be addressed when you return.
Concierge Services
OUR
HOME WATCH
SERVICES
- Tailored to individual needs.
- Prepare your home for your arrival, so you can relax.
PROPERTY
MANAGEMENT
COMPANY
- Concierge services not always provided.
HOUSE SITTER
or
NEIGHBOR
- Don’t expect this from your neighbor.
Additional Services
OUR
HOME WATCH
SERVICES
- Offer vehicle checks, consulting, and coordination for deliveries and contractors.
- Conduct post-storm checks for any visual damage.
PROPERTY
MANAGEMENT
COMPANY
- Generally do not offer additional services like vehicle checks or post-storm inspections.
HOUSE SITTER
or
NEIGHBOR
- If a problem is found, you still have to deal with it upon your return.