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Being a digital nomad is an exciting lifestyle, but it also means being away from home for extended periods. While you are living your best life traveling the world and working remotely, your home may remain unoccupied. It’s important to take care of your home while you’re away to avoid coming back to a mess and costly bills. Here are some tips from TheRollingStowes on what to do with your home during your travels.
Hire a Cleaning Service
One of the most important things to do before leaving your home is to make sure it is thoroughly cleaned. This includes dusting, vacuuming, and wiping down surfaces. You can either do this yourself or hire a cleaning service. If you choose to hire a cleaning service, make sure to provide them with specific instructions, such as cleaning the bathrooms and kitchen, making the beds, and emptying the trash.
Add a Programmable Thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat is a great way to save money while you're away. You can set the temperature to your liking so that you're not wasting energy and money on heating or cooling an empty home. During summer and winter months, it's recommended to set the thermostat at 85 and 50 degrees, respectively.
Vacuum Thoroughly
Before you leave your home, it’s essential to vacuum your floors thoroughly, including any carpets, rugs, and upholstery. Make sure to empty the canister or replace the bag, so it’s ready for use when you return. This will prevent any dirt, crumbs, or pet hair from accumulating and attracting pests.
Lease Your Garage or Parking spot
If you have a parking space or garage that you’re not using while you’re away, consider renting it out. This can help you earn extra cash and offset travel expenses. Thanks to the internet, there are plenty of online platforms available to list your parking space or garage for rent. By listing your space on these platforms, you can easily connect with people looking for a secure place to park their vehicles while you're away.
Secure Your Home With Motion-Activated Lights
A dark home can be an attractive target for burglars as it provides them with cover. To discourage break-ins, you may want to consider installing motion-activated lights around your home's exterior. These lights turn on automatically when someone walks by, creating the illusion that someone is present and making it less likely for burglars to attempt to enter.
Making Your House a Rental
If you’re planning on being away from home for an extended period, consider converting your home into a rental property. This can be a great way to earn passive income while you’re traveling. You can consult online listings in the area to determine the going rental rate for similar properties. It’s important to hire a property manager to take care of any maintenance and repairs while you’re away.
Use a Storage Unit
If you don’t want to rent out your home, another option is to store your belongings in a storage unit while you’re away. This can be a more affordable option than paying for rent on an empty home, and it will keep your belongings safe and secure. Make sure to choose a storage unit with climate control to protect any sensitive items, such as electronics or artwork.
Use a Home-Sharing Platform
Another option is to use a home-sharing platform to rent out your home while you’re away. This can be a great way to earn some extra money, but it’s important to do your research beforehand. Make sure to read reviews of potential guests and have a clear rental agreement in place. You’ll also need to arrange for someone to clean your home between guests.
Being a digital nomad can be a thrilling adventure, but it’s important to take care of your home while you’re away. From hiring a cleaning service to renting out your home, there are many ways to keep your home safe and secure while you’re living your best life on the road. By following these tips, you can enjoy your travels without worrying about the state of your home.