How Homesitting transformed retirement for Tim and Rosie Mackervoy

Posted on 21 October, 2024

As retirement approaches, many of us dream of having a peaceful, leisurely life. However, this new chapter can also bring a lack of routine and lead to feelings of isolation and many look to fill that time with part time work or volunteering opportunities. According to the Centre for Ageing Better[i] there are almost one million more over 65s working since the Millennium.

Homesitting presents a unique and flexible work opportunity, allowing retirees or those who are readily available throughout the year to lead purposeful lives through caring for homes and pets while owners are away. This fulfilling role provides retirees with a sense of structure and routine but also enables them to travel to new places, meet people and bond with animals.

Tim and Rosie Mackervoy, embody this lifestyle. Two years ago, they discovered the world of homesitting and joined Homesitters, which has since transformed their retirement experience. After Tim’s 40-year career as a commercial manager came to an end in 2021, Rosie decided to step back from her role as a child minder, and they were eager to fill their newfound time with meaningful work.

"When I got made redundant and Rosey was working part-time, we were looking for something to fill our time and allow us to retire together," shares Tim. "Our friends, who are also homesitters, spoke highly of it, and we were sold right away. It just ticked so many boxes for us."

After a successful interview and reference checks, they took on their first assignment, quickly realising how much they enjoyed it.

Having previously owned two border collies and two cats, Tim and Rosie are passionate about animals but were not ready to commit to pet ownership again. "We miss having our own pets, but doing this job means we still can enjoy taking care of animals, which we love. It’s a really great way to get the best of both worlds," Rosie explains.

On average, the Mackervoys take on seven assignments each year. Their experiences have ranged from caring for Grade II listed properties to modern homes, all while looking after a variety of delightful pets. Tim notes, "We have stayed in some beautiful places and had lots of fun doing it. Homesitters check in with us during assignments and arrange preliminary meetings with clients to help us understand the home and the pets’ routines."

An active couple, Tim and Rosie enjoy Zumba, yoga, and walking. Their homesitting responsibilities allow them to maintain these activities even while away. "We make savings working as homesitters and have seen lower bills due to our time away on assignments," Tim says. He affectionately refers to their homesitting earnings as their “pocket money,” noting that it funds their annual holiday, allowing them to enjoy a ‘cost-neutral living.’

For Tim and Rosie, homesitting is more than just a job—it's a lifestyle that is fulfilling and meaningful that also beautifully intertwines adventure, companionship with animals, and financial benefits.

Join Homesitters Ltd.
Homesitters Ltd. is always on the lookout for responsible and caring retirees to join its team. With flexible opportunities across the UK, homesitting offers retirees the chance to enrich their retirement with new experiences, companionship, and a strong sense of purpose.


[i] Almost one million more workers aged 65 and above since the millennium, new analysis reveals | Centre for Ageing Better (ageing-better.org.uk)

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