Retired Couple Turns Home-Sitting into £4,000 a Year Side Hustle
A couple in their 70s, Brian and Barbara Kennedy, have discovered a unique side hustle that earns them up to £4,000 a year. Since June 2004, they have been working as home-sitters, taking care of people’s houses while they are away. Over the past 16 years, they have completed almost 300 home-sits and spent around 3,000 days on assignments.
Brian decided to retire early to escape the daily grind of commuting and lead a more relaxed life. With their mortgage already paid off, they realized they had the financial stability to explore more interesting opportunities during their retirement. Brian’s pension, although reduced due to his age, provided them with enough income to live comfortably without downsizing or making major lifestyle changes.
The Kennedy couple came across the concept of home-sitting during a pre-retirement course organized by Brian’s employer. Intrigued by the idea, they realized it could be the perfect part-time and flexible role for them after retirement.
Starting from scratch, they had no prior knowledge or experience in home-sitting. However, they quickly adapted and learned the ropes. Today, they consider it as their ideal post-retirement job.
Home-sitting involves taking care of someone’s property while they are away, providing security and peace of mind for homeowners. The Kennedys have become experts at managing these responsibilities over the years. They ensure the smooth running of households, take care of pets, maintain gardens, and handle any emergencies that may arise.
While it may sound like an easy task, home-sitting requires a sense of responsibility and trustworthiness. Homeowners entrust their most valuable possession, their home, to strangers during their absence. Brian and Barbara take great pride in their role and are known for providing excellent service.
Not only does home-sitting allow the Kennedys to monetize their retirement, but it also provides them with exciting opportunities to explore new places and communities. They have enjoyed countless adventures, immersing themselves in various cultures while caring for homes across the country.
Their home-sitting career has not only given them financial benefits but also invaluable experiences and memories. They have discovered the joys of retirement without compromising their financial security. It’s a win-win situation for them.
If you’re considering home-sitting as a side hustle or a unique retirement option, the Kennedys have some advice. They recommend attending pre-retirement courses or seminars to learn more about different opportunities that may suit your interests and skills.
As the world adapts to the concept of shared economies and unconventional work arrangements, home-sitting has emerged as a viable option for retirees and those seeking flexible roles. It allows individuals to earn supplemental income while exploring new cities or simply staying within their own community.
The Kennedys’ story serves as an inspiration for those looking for unconventional retirement options. Their journey proves that retirement doesn’t mean the end of financial stability or exciting opportunities; it can be the start of a fulfilling and adventurous new chapter in life. So, if you have some free time, consider home-sitting as a unique side hustle that can turn your retirement into a rewarding experience.
