A retired couple from Gloucestershire have found a smart way to stretch their savings, travel the UK and earn extra income in retirement.
As the cost of living continues, more people are looking at ways for them to earn a bit of extra cash.
Tim and Jill Clark have spent the past 20 years working as homesitters, caring for pets and properties through the national agency Homesitters Ltd.
Since signing up in 2003, they have completed 319 assignments and looked after more than 280 dogs. Their work has taken them all over the country and into homes of all sizes, from city flats to rural mansions.
Clark told GB News: "As well as the financial benefits, I would recommend this experience to many retirees, it gives you great experiences. You can live in areas you might never have been able to afford otherwise, and you can pick bookings that suit you."
The couple often spend up to 150 days a year away from their home in Tetbury, exploring new areas and forming lasting relationships with pets and their owners.
He said: "Some of the homes we stay in are just incredible. The biggest place we looked after had 15 bedrooms and was set on a 500-acre estate. It is like a holiday, but with a purpose."
Homesitting can offer real financial perks in retirement. By cutting out accommodation costs, couples can travel the UK more affordably. The modest income earned also provides a useful top-up to their finances.
HOMESITTERSLTD.
| Meet Britain's most experienced dog sitters: The retired couple saving on bills and travelling the UKClark said: "We save money on our own water and energy bills while we’re away because we switch everything off. We do end up spending a bit more on eating out though, since we like to explore the area."
He added that while the extra income is not their main motivation, it still offers a useful boost.
He continued: "It’s nice to earn a bit. It might pay for a meal out or a little treat. And because we’re away for weeks at a time, our own household bills go down too, which helps us save."
HOMESITTERS
|Homesitting assignments vary and are not limited to pet care
Homesitting assignments vary and are not limited to pet care.
"Some people just look after the house or water the garden," said Clark . "You can choose jobs that suit you."
Homesitters earn a minimum of £333.06 for a two-week assignment without pets.
Those willing to care for pets can earn even more, with assignments involving two dogs and a cat paying £367.92 for a fortnight.
These earnings include a daily food allowance and additional benefits include reimbursement for mileage costs, covering both the preliminary visit and travel to and from assignments.
HOMESITTERS LTD | Retirees can earn hundreds of pounds extra each month for taking on homesitter duties
Since signing up, the pair have also cared for donkeys, Shire horses, alpacas and even exotic pets including tarantulas and bearded dragons.
Clark said: "We have looked after just about every kind of animal and we have loved every minute of it, especially the dogs. Each dog has its own personality and we have built so many strong bonds over the years."
Ben Irvine, Director of Operations at Homesitters Ltd, said: "Tim and Jill are everything we look for. They are responsible, thoughtful and regularly requested by name. They have built a wonderful reputation."
Though the Clarks now take on fewer bookings since semi-retiring again, they still enjoy the lifestyle it offers. "Homesitting has shaped our retirement," said Clark. "It is not work, it is just a great way to live."
Britons can find out more information about Homesitters on www.homesitters.co.uk