[redwitch]

As most of you know, I watch homes (as well as other things) as part of my business. Of the homes I watch, 7 are rented out. One is rented through The Villages, 1 by an outside realtor, 1 by a local property manager, 5 directly by the owners. The Villages rental has been rented a grand total of 2 weeks in 2009 to date. The outside realtor rented its home 2 months in 2009 and is booked Jan-March of this year. The owner rentals are as follows: 10 mos in 2009; 6 mos. from Dec. to April; 5 mos 2009 to date; 2 months (but just started renting in Nov. 2009); 2 months in 2010 (don't know about 2009, had another home watcher).

If my homes are typical of The Villages (and I think they're a good sample), why would anyone use The Villages to rent their property? As to Empty Nest or Blackhawk of house watch, they do a good job but their prices are exorbitant (unless you really think $3.25/day is reasonable).

There are many people/businesses watching homes in TV. You can even get friends and neighbors to do it (although I truly do not recommend that route -- too much risk for your friends/neighbors). The lowest price is not necessarily the wisest choice and the highest price is no guaranty of getting your money's worth.

Hire someone you're comfortable with. Get references. Find out exactly what they offer to do (take your golf cart for its needed ride? check the batteries? bring in small furniture during hurricane season? cover plants? extra services as requested?) Have your neighbors be on the look out to be sure they are actually checking your home.