Comfortable home base in the Welsh countryside for a long-term housesitter

About this assignment

We are looking for a responsible, active person or couple to make their home in the back wing of a large home in South-East Wales, so that there is a subtle, but continuing presence onsite whenever the owners are away on business.

The ideal house-sitter would be self-reliant, resourceful, proactive, practical, flexible, attentive to detail, discreet, very clean and quiet, hospitable, friendly, good-humoured, and generally contented.

The property will be much enjoyed by people who have an appreciation of natural beauty and history and by gardeners, although no gardening is required.

Ideally, you would be looking to settle for at least a year, and you would be free to travel whenever the owners are at home.

You must have the required paperwork to reside in the United Kingdom legally, along with your own car and source of income.

What responsibilities are required of the house sitter

The house sitter(s) will be a visible, friendly presence in the house and grounds, and will be responsible for normal, proactive day-to-day care and issues that arise in any property when the owners are away. Some problems they should be able to resolve themselves, and others may require help from a list of approved contractors.

The house sitter(s) are not expected to clean the main part of the house, except in an emergency.

Common sense and resilience are essential, but no specific skills are required.

This is a working farm, so carers must be comfortable having horses and sheep onsite, but no animal duties are required. Apologies, the house is not suitable for any pets.

What are the good features of the property and location

The space is mostly self-contained and private across two floors, with its own entrance. It has 3 bedrooms and a full bathroom upstairs, with a downstairs toilet, galley kitchen, and large oil-fuelled sitting room.

Please note that the back staircase may also be used by the owners to access the attic and cellar. The owners occupy the front of the house, so that privacy can be maintained when both are in residence.

Enjoyment of private gardens and woods, trails for running/walking, walking distance to a friendly pub, and an opportunity to engage with a small community of neighbours.

Basic furniture is provided, own furniture is welcome.

All property costs (water, electricity, heating, maintenance) are paid by the owners. You will need to set up and pay for your own telephone and internet service. House sitters will be responsible for keeping their own space clean and tidy.

For somebody who likes nature, this is a magical place, an historic house, with beautiful views, gardens, water, a strong sense of community with the neighbours, and not far from towns and culture.

Please note that for security and privacy reasons, THE LOCATION ON THIS LISTING IS NOT ACCURATE. More information and photographs will be shared with our shortlist of sitters.

What does the house sitter need to consider before applying for this assignment

Are you able to note problems before they arise and to deal with them to the best of your ability before calling for professional help? Would you be comfortable checking an attic void for leaks? Are you in good health and reasonably fit? Do you actively look out for things that might be out of place or off? Do you keep regular hours and enjoy interfacing politely with people? Would you enjoy communicating, journaling events, and keeping the owners updated about happenings in their absence?

You must have a car and have required paperwork to reside in the UK legally.

Non-smokers only, please. No pets or illegal intoxicants on the property.

No salary.

Long-term (1 year+) preferred.

Can I bring my own pets?

No, sorry.

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