Hey guys! Ever dreamt of living in a vibrant city like Mexico City without paying rent? Well, let me tell you about my experience with I Trusted House Sitters in Mexico City. I'm diving deep into how it works, the pros and cons, and whether it’s a good option for your travel plans. So, buckle up, and let’s get started!

What is I Trusted House Sitters?

I Trusted House Sitters is an online platform that connects homeowners with individuals willing to look after their homes and pets while they're away. The concept is simple: homeowners get peace of mind knowing their property is safe and their pets are cared for, while house sitters get free accommodation in exchange for their services. It’s a win-win situation, theoretically, but how does it hold up in reality, especially in a bustling metropolis like Mexico City?

Getting Started

First things first, signing up is pretty straightforward. You create a profile highlighting your experience with pets, your reliability, and why homeowners should trust you. A detailed profile is crucial. Include photos, references, and a clear description of your skills. Think of it as your digital resume. Homeowners, on the other hand, list their property, dates they’ll be away, and specific requirements for the house sitter. Matching is based on availability, location, and the sitter's skills. Communication is key, so be prepared to exchange messages with potential homeowners to discuss details, expectations, and any concerns. This initial phase is essential for ensuring both parties are on the same page before committing to a house-sitting assignment. Verifying your profile through background checks and providing references significantly increases your chances of being selected.

Why Mexico City?

Mexico City is a fantastic place for house sitting due to its rich culture, diverse neighborhoods, and affordable cost of living (well, compared to many Western cities). From the historic charm of Coyoacán to the trendy vibes of Roma Norte, there’s always something new to explore. House sitting allows you to immerse yourself in local life, live like a local, and save a ton of money on accommodation. It’s not just about having a free place to stay; it’s about experiencing the city in a unique and authentic way. Plus, who wouldn’t want to spend their days exploring ancient ruins, indulging in delicious street food, and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere?

My Experience with I Trusted House Sitters in Mexico City

Okay, let's get to the juicy part – my actual experience using I Trusted House Sitters in Mexico City. I spent three weeks house sitting in a lovely apartment in the heart of Condesa. The homeowner was a delightful woman named Elena, who needed someone to look after her two adorable cats, Frida and Diego (yes, named after the famous artists!).

Finding the Right Sit

Finding the right sit took some time and effort. I browsed through numerous listings, sent out several applications, and had a few video calls with potential homeowners. It’s important to be patient and persistent. Don’t just apply for every listing you see; focus on those that align with your skills and preferences. In my case, I wanted a central location, a pet-friendly environment, and a homeowner who was communicative and responsive. Elena’s listing stood out because she was clear about her expectations, provided detailed information about her cats, and was quick to respond to my messages. This made me feel confident that we would be a good match.

The Good Stuff

• Accommodation: The apartment was fantastic! It was fully furnished, had a well-equipped kitchen, and a cozy living room. It felt like a home away from home. The location was perfect, with easy access to public transportation, parks, and restaurants. Living in Condesa allowed me to explore the neighborhood’s art deco architecture, leafy streets, and vibrant café culture. I could easily walk to nearby attractions, such as Parque México and Avenida Amsterdam, and immerse myself in the local atmosphere.
• The Cats: Frida and Diego were an absolute joy. They were affectionate, playful, and relatively low-maintenance. I spent my days playing with them, feeding them, and giving them lots of cuddles. Taking care of pets can be incredibly rewarding, and it added a sense of purpose and routine to my travels. Plus, who can resist the charm of two adorable cats named after iconic Mexican artists?
• Cost Savings: This is the big one. I saved a significant amount of money on accommodation. Mexico City can be surprisingly expensive, especially if you’re staying in touristy areas. House sitting allowed me to live comfortably without breaking the bank. The money I saved went towards exploring the city, trying new foods, and experiencing cultural events. It made my trip much more affordable and enjoyable.
• Local Experience: Living in a local neighborhood gave me a much more authentic experience than staying in a hotel. I got to interact with locals, shop at local markets, and discover hidden gems that I wouldn’t have found otherwise. I felt like I was truly living in Mexico City, not just visiting. This immersion in local life allowed me to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the city’s culture and people.

The Not-So-Good Stuff

• Responsibility: House sitting is not a vacation. You’re responsible for the homeowner’s property and pets. This means following their instructions carefully, being mindful of security, and dealing with any unexpected issues that may arise. There were a couple of instances where I had to contact Elena for guidance, such as when the internet went down and when one of the cats seemed a bit under the weather. It’s important to be prepared for these situations and to communicate openly with the homeowner.
• Limited Freedom: You’re tied to the house to some extent. You can’t just up and leave whenever you want, especially if there are pets involved. You need to plan your outings around their needs and make sure they’re well taken care of. This requires careful planning and coordination. I had to adjust my schedule to ensure the cats were fed, played with, and had enough attention. While this limited my spontaneity, it also added a sense of structure and purpose to my days.
• Competition: Finding the perfect house sit can be competitive. Popular listings attract many applicants, so you need to make your profile stand out and be proactive in your search. I spent a considerable amount of time crafting my profile, sending out applications, and communicating with homeowners. It’s important to be patient and persistent. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get accepted right away; keep trying and refining your approach.

Tips for Successful House Sitting in Mexico City

Alright, here are some pro tips for making the most of your house-sitting adventure in Mexico City:

Create a Killer Profile

Your profile is your first impression. Make it count! Include high-quality photos, detailed descriptions of your experience, and glowing references. Highlight your skills, personality, and why homeowners should trust you. A well-crafted profile will significantly increase your chances of being selected for house-sitting assignments. Think of it as your personal advertisement, showcasing your best qualities and making you stand out from the competition.

Communicate Clearly

Communication is key. Ask questions, clarify expectations, and stay in touch with the homeowner before, during, and after the sit. Regular updates and prompt responses can go a long way in building trust and ensuring a smooth experience. Effective communication is essential for addressing any concerns, resolving issues, and maintaining a positive relationship with the homeowner.

Be Respectful

Treat the homeowner’s property as if it were your own. Follow their instructions carefully, be mindful of their belongings, and leave the house clean and tidy. Respect for the homeowner’s property and rules is paramount. It demonstrates your responsibility, trustworthiness, and appreciation for their generosity. A respectful attitude will not only ensure a pleasant experience but also increase your chances of being invited back for future house-sitting assignments.

Be Prepared for Anything

Unexpected things can happen. Be prepared to handle emergencies, such as power outages, medical issues, or security breaches. Have a backup plan in place and know who to contact in case of trouble. Being prepared for any eventuality is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of the property and pets under your care. It demonstrates your resourcefulness, problem-solving skills, and commitment to providing a reliable house-sitting service.

Embrace the Local Culture

Take the time to explore the neighborhood, try new foods, and learn about the local culture. House sitting is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in a new environment and experience life from a different perspective. Embrace the local customs, traditions, and language to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for Mexico City. This will not only enhance your travel experience but also enrich your personal growth and cultural awareness.

Is I Trusted House Sitters Worth It?

So, the million-dollar question: is I Trusted House Sitters worth it in Mexico City? In my opinion, absolutely! While it’s not without its challenges, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. The opportunity to live rent-free, experience local culture, and care for adorable pets is a dream come true for many travelers. With careful planning, clear communication, and a responsible attitude, you can have an amazing house-sitting experience in Mexico City. It’s a unique and rewarding way to travel, save money, and create unforgettable memories.

Final Thoughts

House sitting in Mexico City through I Trusted House Sitters was an incredible experience. It allowed me to live like a local, save money, and explore a vibrant and exciting city. If you’re considering house sitting as a way to travel, I highly recommend giving it a try. Just remember to do your research, communicate effectively, and be prepared to embrace the unexpected. Happy travels, everyone!