home watch business plan

• Awards Season
• Big Stories
• Pop Culture
• Video Games
• Celebrities

The Do’s and Don’ts of Using Live Streaming Right Now for Your Business

In today’s digital age, live streaming has become an increasingly popular tool for businesses to engage with their audience in real-time. With the rise of platforms like Facebook Live, Instagram Live, and YouTube Live, businesses now have the opportunity to connect with their customers on a whole new level. However, like any marketing strategy, there are certain do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when using live streaming for your business. In this article, we will explore some of the best practices as well as the pitfalls to avoid when utilizing live streaming right now.

The Do’s of Using Live Streaming

Plan Ahead: One of the most important do’s when it comes to live streaming is to plan ahead. Just like any other marketing campaign or event, you need to have a clear objective and a strategy in place before you go live. Take the time to outline what you want to achieve with your live stream and how you will measure its success.

Promote Your Stream: Another crucial do is to promote your live stream beforehand. Building anticipation among your audience will help generate more viewership during the actual broadcast. Utilize your social media channels, email newsletters, and website banners to spread the word about your upcoming live stream.

Engage with Your Audience: One of the biggest advantages of live streaming is its interactive nature. Encourage your viewers to ask questions or leave comments during the broadcast and make sure to respond in real-time. Engaging with your audience not only helps build rapport but also shows that you value their input.

The Don’ts of Using Live Streaming

Neglecting Technical Issues: One major don’t when it comes to live streaming is neglecting technical issues. Before going live, double-check all your equipment – camera, microphone, internet connection – to ensure a smooth broadcast. Technical glitches can be frustrating for viewers and may even cause them to abandon your stream altogether.

Ignoring Feedback: Another don’t is ignoring feedback from your audience. Pay attention to the comments and questions that come in during your live stream and address them accordingly. Ignoring feedback can give the impression that you don’t value your viewers’ opinions, leading to a decline in engagement.

Going Off-Script: While live streaming allows for spontaneity, it’s important not to go completely off-script. Having a loose outline of what you want to cover during the broadcast will help keep you on track and ensure that you deliver the key messages you planned for. Going off-script too often can make your live stream seem unorganized and unprofessional.

Best Practices for Live Streaming Right Now

Choose the Right Platform: When it comes to live streaming, choosing the right platform is essential. Consider your target audience and which platforms they are most likely to use. Each platform has its own unique features and user base, so choose one that aligns with your business goals and target demographic.

Test Your Equipment: Before going live, always test your equipment to ensure everything is working properly. Check your camera angle, lighting, audio quality, and internet connection beforehand to avoid any technical difficulties during the broadcast.

Practice Makes Perfect: Just like any other skill, practice makes perfect when it comes to live streaming. Take advantage of test broadcasts or practice sessions before going live with an important event or announcement. This will help you feel more comfortable in front of the camera and iron out any potential issues before they occur.

Live streaming right now offers businesses an excellent opportunity to engage with their audience in real-time and create meaningful connections. By following these do’s and don’ts of using live streaming for your business, you can maximize its potential and avoid common pitfalls. Remember to plan ahead, promote your stream, engage with your audience, and address technical issues. By doing so, you can harness the power of live streaming to enhance your brand’s online presence and connect with your customers on a deeper level.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

MORE FROM ASK.COM

100 Ways To Make Money

100 ways to make money – Learn How To Make Money Online and Offline

• How to Make Money From Home

How to Start a Home Watch Business

Have you ever thought about how to start a home watch business? It’s a great opportunity for anyone looking to start a business with very low overhead and not a lot of training or education. You might have heard of a home watch business being referred to as “house sitting,” but the service you offer will go beyond what a person’s friend or renter would take care of.

Someone in the home watch business typically watches a number of homes owned by people who are away for an extended period of time. During their time away, you will inspect their properties on a daily or weekly basis, clean as necessary, respond to any alarm calls, and be responsible for the upkeep of the grounds. Your goal is for the homeowner to return to a home that is in as good or better shape than when they left.

The other market for a home watch business can be found with people who own multiple properties that are vacant. These days, there are a lot of vacant homes, and many get vandalized if they are not being taken care of by a home watch service.

What You’ll Need to Succeed

Unlike those who house sit, you will not live in any of the homes you are watching. Instead, you will visit them on a regular basis to take care of any needs. You’ll charge a weekly or monthly fee for your services, and you will bill the homeowner for any maintenance materials and services not covered in your contracted rate.

In order to visit the homes you are watching, you will need a reliable vehicle, and your vehicle will need to be able to carry basic lawn care and cleaning supplies, which you’ll also need to purchase to get started. Beyond that, having a home computer with basic accounting software and a good mobile phone are pretty much all you need to start a home watch business.

While you won’t need any special training to successfully run a home watch business, it will be helpful if you know some basic maintenance and yard care techniques. For large repair jobs, you will be able to hire a company on the homeowner’s behalf, but you should be able to handle smaller jobs. The more you know how to do yourself, the more value you can offer your clients.

As with all businesses, you will need to obtain a business license, and insurance is also very important. Having the right liability coverage will save you if anything should happen to one of your client’s homes. It is also a good idea to get bonded, as this offers more protection and is a selling point when approaching customers. Marketing Your Home Watch Business

Learning how to start a home watch business is more than what you do for your clients. A large portion of your time, especially at first, will be devoted to getting new customers. Your home watch business will appeal to wealthy and upper middle class homeowners, so you want to target your marketing in areas where they can be found. Putting flyers in country clubs, high end gyms, etc. will be a good idea, and attending networking events can also be very helpful.

When you learn how to start a home watch business, one of the first things you realize is that your service is what will help you stand out from the crowd. Take really good care of your clients, and you can coast on referral business for a long time!

See author's posts

More Ways to Make Money

How to Start a Dog Grooming Business

How to Start a Senior Portraits Business

How to Become a Career Coach

Interested in the National Home Watch Association? For more information, call 843-357-6660 !

Why Start a Home Watch Business?

Additionally, part-time residents and absentee homeowners need a service to oversee their places in their absence. Normal preventative maintenance and inspections of the property and inside the residence should be performed on a regularly scheduled basis.

How do I know if I should start a Home Watch company?

Whether you live in an area that has a lot of seasonal residents or a prime residential area (where people leave their homes to go to warmer climates), then you have plenty of income potential. If you are handy, reliable, and trustworthy, and are looking for the opportunity to work for yourself and determine your own future, then you have the main traits needed to succeed. If you have a head for business and are a good networker, you increase your chances of success exponentially.

What will membership in the NHWA do for me?

Membership in the National Home Watch Association gives you instant credibility with potential clients. It also makes you part of an association of accredited Home Watch businesses that have agreed to maintain a higher set of ethics and standards than non-members. Placement on the NHWA website gives potential clients direct access to your Home Watch business. In addition to having your contact and location information in your NHWA listing, you will also have your website listed, giving you traffic and higher search engine rankings. Our website gives you plenty of examples of what we can do for you and your business on the Benefits page.

Mentoring and Training

Navigating your way through countless websites and companies trying to sell services to the industry can be very confusing. You have questions that no qualified people are willing or able to answer. Membership gives you the ability to talk to other people that have been through what you are going through, what you are experiencing. The NHWA is here to help!

The proven value of our Guide to Starting a Home Watch Business…

“Having been in family business for many years and then my own businesses, I was so impressed by the Guide! It was comfortable to us, explained things clearly, and was so supportive in the content that it has!” – Lois Edmund, Home Watch of South Jersey

“Reflecting back to 2015 when starting HHR Home Watch Services, I remembered the NHWA Guide to Starting A Home Watch Business. I pulled my copy out to find many page marker notes for all the topics that we had addressed and for those needing to be addressed. The Guide was a wonderful resource and also confirmed our vision and values for Home Watch aligned with the NHWA.” – Denise Eslick, HHR Home Watch Services

“Being new to home watch industry I wanted to make sure I was taking the right steps when setting up my business, and one of the best decisions I made was purchasing the NHWA’s Guide to Starting a Home Watch Business. This guide allowed me to learn the basic principles for setting up my home watch company. I highly recommend this guide to any home watch company looking to for a step-by-step guide to starting your business and setting your business up for success! As part of purchasing this program it went towards my NHWA membership, which has been a valuable resource for my company! Thank you NHWA!” – Tiffany Wilson, Premier Home Watch of Southwest Florida

What do I need to begin?

What insurances should I carry?

What licenses do i need, how much capital will i need to get me started.

These questions and a lot more are answered in the “NHWA Guide to Starting a Home Watch Business.” This g uide is only $185 , which is applied to your first year’s annual NHWA membership dues of $495* , if you apply for membership within one year of the date of purchase! Once you have placed your order, you will receive an email with a link to download the Guide   Why wait? Get started TODAY!    (*Canadian companies, please contact the NHWA office for membership pricing, 843-357-6660)

Upon completion of payment, PayPal will open a screen to download your Guide.

Want More Information About Starting You Own Home Watch Business? Call 843-357-6660 Or Send Us a Message Below!

Your name Your email (required) Your Phone (required) Best time to reach you during business hours (required) Your time zone (required) State/Province where you are located (required) How did you hear about us? (required)

Subject How Can We Help You?

Senior Service Business

The Best Home-Based Senior Service Businesses You Can Start On A Shoestring

Start Your Own Senior Home Watch Business

By Craig Wallin

As the number of second homes has grown, so has the need for someone to look after both the primary and second homes while the owners are away. And because home prices have increased so much, they are a major investment that requires paid professional care to prevent and control damage and risks for everything from natural disasters to a leaky faucet.

Today almost all insurance companies require regular home checks by a pro if a home is to be vacant for extended periods of time. According to industry insiders, home watch services have now become a multi-billion dollar industry, with steady growth and great prospects for the future, as it’s an essential, recession-proof service that’s needed every year regardless of whether the economy is booming or not.

This growing demand for home watch services has created a golden opportunity for those who can help provide regular home checks and peace of mind for seniors who are away from their homes for months at a time.

It’s important to note that home watch services are needed in all communities, not just in vacation or sunbelt areas. For example, when a “snowbird” homeowner leaves their primary residence in the fall to spend a few months in the sunbelt, a skilled home watch pro is needed to look after their home during the winter months to prevent problems. When they return to their primary residence, another home watch pro looks after their sunbelt home, typically during the summer months when the owner has gone back north.

How much can you make?

The national average for a routine home check is $34, with most homeowners choosing weekly home checks. A typical home check takes 20-30 minutes, so with 2 visits per hour, the hourly rate is $68. Say you wanted to work just 20 hours per week – how much money could you make? Using the national average of $68 per hour, you could make $1,360 per week or over $5,400 per month for part-time work. If you want to work full time, $10,000 a month is within reach.

Best of all, a home watch business can be started with very little money. If you have a reliable vehicle and a smartphone, you’re almost there. You’ll need to get a business license, brochures or flyers, and business cards, which are very affordable at places like vistaprint.com. Another plus is that a home watch business can be started with no expensive training and no franchise fees, just common sense and a can-do attitude.

The rewards of providing home watch services in your town are great – not just in dollars and cents – but in the satisfaction of providing peace of mind for your clients who rely on you for regular home checks when they are far away.

• SIESTA SAND STORE
• Subscribe to the Sand!

Siesta Key's #1 Information Source

Home watch a thriving business

Author: Hannah Wallace

• Tags: Abilagil Covey , Bruce Whittinghill , Citizen Jack , Jim Farley , Mary Plote , Siesta Key Home Watch , Win Win Services

All bought-out on the beach

Island’s mini-reef totals exceed 200

Change Location

Find awesome listings near you.

How to Start a Home Watch Business

Are you interested in starting a home watch business? If so, you’ve come to the right place! In this blog article, I will share valuable methods and tips on how to successfully launch your very own home watch business.

Starting a home watch business can be a rewarding venture, and I believe that with the right guidance and strategies, anyone can achieve success in this field. Throughout this article, I will provide you with practical advice and insights that I have gained through my experience as a Business Owner/Advisor. It is my passion to help individuals and families turn their dream of owning a business into a reality.

Having been involved in the home watch industry for several years, I have witnessed the challenges and triumphs that come with starting and running a successful business. From developing a solid business plan to marketing your services effectively, I have learned the ins and outs of this industry and I am excited to share my knowledge with you.

By the end of this article, you can expect to find the best tips and strategies on how to start your own home watch business. I will provide you with practical advice that you can implement right away, as well as share my personal insights on what has worked for me in this field. So, if you’re ready to embark on this exciting journey and build a thriving home watch business, keep reading and get ready to turn your dreams into reality!

1. Understanding the Home Watch Industry

Before diving into the world of starting a home watch business, it is crucial to understand the industry itself. Home watch services cater to homeowners who are away for extended periods, providing peace of mind by regularly checking and maintaining their properties. This industry has seen significant growth due to the increasing number of second homes and vacation properties.

2. Conducting Market Research

Prior to launching your home watch business, conducting thorough market research is essential. Identify your target market, analyze the demand for such services in your area, and evaluate the competition. This research will help you develop a unique selling proposition and tailor your services to meet the specific needs of potential clients.

3. Creating a Business Plan

A well-crafted business plan is the foundation for any successful venture. Outline your business goals, define your target market, and detail your marketing strategies. Include a comprehensive financial plan that covers startup costs, projected revenue, and expenses. A solid business plan will not only guide you but also attract potential investors or lenders.

4. Obtaining Necessary Licenses and Insurance

Ensure that your home watch business complies with all legal requirements by obtaining the necessary licenses and permits. Additionally, it is crucial to have appropriate insurance coverage to protect both your business and your clients’ properties. Consult with a professional to understand the specific insurance needs of your home watch business.

5. Building a Strong Network

Establishing a robust network is vital for the success of your home watch business. Connect with local real estate agents, property management companies, and other professionals in related industries. Attend industry events and join relevant associations to expand your network and gain credibility within the community.

6. Developing Service Packages and Pricing

Create service packages that cater to the varying needs of your target market. These may include regular property inspections, maintenance checks, mail collection, and more. Determine your pricing structure based on the services offered, the size of the property, and the level of customization required. Ensure that your pricing is competitive while still allowing for profitability.

7. Marketing and Promoting Your Business

Implement a comprehensive marketing strategy to increase awareness and attract clients to your home watch business. Develop a professional website that showcases your services and testimonials from satisfied clients. Utilize social media platforms, targeted online advertising, and traditional marketing methods to reach your target audience. Consider offering referral incentives to encourage satisfied clients to spread the word about your services.

Starting a home watch business requires careful planning, a strong network, and effective marketing strategies. By following these steps and staying committed to delivering exceptional service, you can successfully establish yourself in this growing industry.

Mistakes to Avoid When You Start a Home Watch Business

1. neglecting proper market research.

One of the biggest mistakes aspiring entrepreneurs make when starting a home watch business is neglecting proper market research. Understanding your target audience, their needs, and the competition is crucial for success. By conducting thorough market research, you can identify gaps in the market and tailor your services to meet the specific demands of homeowners.

2. Underestimating the Importance of Insurance

Insurance is often overlooked by new home watch business owners, but it is a critical aspect that should never be underestimated. Accidents and unforeseen events can happen, and having proper insurance coverage ensures that you are protected financially. It not only safeguards your business but also provides peace of mind to your clients, knowing that they are covered in case of any damages or losses.

3. Failing to Develop a Comprehensive Service Agreement

A common mistake made by many home watch business owners is failing to develop a comprehensive service agreement. This agreement outlines the scope of your services, expectations, and responsibilities, protecting both you and your clients. It is essential to clearly define the terms and conditions, including fees, cancellation policies, and any additional services offered. A well-drafted service agreement sets clear boundaries and prevents misunderstandings in the future.

4. Overlooking the Importance of Professional Training

Starting a home watch business requires more than just a passion for homes and an eye for detail. Many entrepreneurs make the mistake of overlooking the importance of professional training. Investing in training programs or certifications specific to home watch services can enhance your credibility and expertise. It equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide top-notch services, giving you a competitive edge in the industry.

5. Neglecting Marketing and Branding Strategies

One of the most common mistakes new home watch business owners make is neglecting marketing and branding strategies. Building a strong brand presence and effectively promoting your services is crucial for attracting clients and establishing a reputable image. Utilize various marketing channels, such as social media, online directories, and local networking events, to reach your target audience. Develop a compelling brand identity that reflects your professionalism and reliability, setting you apart from competitors.

By avoiding these common mistakes when starting a home watch business, you can set yourself up for success. Remember to conduct thorough market research, prioritize insurance coverage, develop a comprehensive service agreement, invest in professional training, and implement effective marketing and branding strategies. With careful planning and attention to detail, your home watch business can thrive in the competitive market.

Register Your Business in The USA When You Start a Home Watch Business

Understanding the importance of registering your home watch business.

Starting a home watch business can be an exciting venture, allowing you to provide valuable services to homeowners who are away. However, before you dive into this endeavor, it is crucial to understand the importance of registering your business in the USA. Registering your home watch business not only establishes your credibility but also ensures legal compliance and offers various benefits that can contribute to your long-term success.

Legal Compliance and Protection

Registering your home watch business is essential to ensure legal compliance with the regulations and requirements set by the United States government. By registering your business, you demonstrate your commitment to operating within the bounds of the law, giving your clients confidence in your professionalism and integrity.

Furthermore, registering your business provides you with legal protection. Operating as an unregistered entity can expose you to personal liability, meaning that you may be held personally responsible for any legal issues or financial obligations that arise. Registering your business separates your personal assets from your business liabilities, shielding your personal finances in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

Establishing Credibility and Building Trust

Registering your home watch business helps you establish credibility and build trust among potential clients. When homeowners entrust you with the responsibility of caring for their properties while they are away, they want assurance that you are a legitimate and reliable business. By registering your business, you provide them with the peace of mind that comes from knowing they are dealing with a professional entity.

Moreover, registration enables you to obtain a business license, which adds an extra layer of credibility. A business license demonstrates that you have met specific requirements and have been authorized to operate, further instilling confidence in your clients and setting you apart from competitors who may not have taken this important step.

Tax Benefits and Financial Advantages

Registering your home watch business in the USA also brings various tax benefits and financial advantages. As a registered business, you can deduct legitimate business expenses from your taxable income, potentially reducing your overall tax liability. These deductions may include mileage, equipment, marketing expenses, and more, helping you maximize your profits and invest back into your business.

Additionally, registering your business allows you to open a business bank account. Separating your personal and business finances not only simplifies accounting and bookkeeping but also enhances your professional image. A dedicated business bank account facilitates transactions, tracks income and expenses, and provides a clear financial overview of your business’s performance.

Access to Resources and Networking Opportunities

When you register your home watch business, you gain access to a wealth of resources and networking opportunities. Various organizations and associations cater specifically to registered businesses, offering support, guidance, and educational resources. These resources can help you stay updated with industry trends, expand your knowledge, and enhance your skills, ultimately contributing to your business’s growth and success.

Furthermore, registration opens doors to networking opportunities within your industry. Attending conferences, seminars, and networking events allows you to connect with like-minded professionals, potential clients, and industry experts. Building a strong network can lead to collaborations, referrals, and partnerships, expanding your reach and boosting your business’s visibility in the market.

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

How to find the right licenses & permits in usa when you start a home watch business, understanding the importance of licenses and permits.

Starting a home watch business in the USA requires careful consideration of the licenses and permits needed to operate legally. These documents not only ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations but also instill confidence in potential clients. By obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, you demonstrate your commitment to professionalism and provide peace of mind to homeowners entrusting their properties to your care.

Researching Local Regulations

When embarking on your home watch business journey, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific licenses and permits required in your local area. Each state, county, and even city may have its own set of regulations, making it essential to conduct thorough research. Contacting your local government offices, such as the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, can provide valuable information on the necessary documentation.

Identifying the Appropriate Licenses

One of the first steps in finding the right licenses for your home watch business is determining the specific services you plan to offer. While general business licenses are typically required, additional specialized licenses may be necessary depending on the nature of your operations. These could include security licenses, property management licenses, or even certifications in home inspection or insurance.

Acquiring the Required Permits

In addition to licenses, certain permits may be necessary to operate your home watch business legally. These permits can vary depending on factors such as the location of the property you are watching, the type of services you offer, and any specific regulations in your area. Examples of permits you may need to obtain include alarm system permits, occupancy permits, or even permits for parking in certain neighborhoods.

Consulting with Professionals

While navigating the world of licenses and permits can be daunting, seeking guidance from professionals can simplify the process. Consulting with attorneys specializing in business law or licensing experts can provide invaluable insights and ensure that you are on the right track. These professionals can help you understand the intricate details of the licensing requirements and assist you in completing the necessary paperwork accurately and efficiently.

Starting a home watch business requires not only a passion for providing exceptional service but also a thorough understanding of the legal framework surrounding your operations. By dedicating time to research, identifying the appropriate licenses and permits, and seeking professional guidance, you can ensure compliance and establish a solid foundation for your business. Remember, obtaining the right licenses and permits is not only a legal obligation but also a testament to your commitment to excellence in the home watch industry.

In conclusion, we have discussed the key steps and considerations involved in starting a home watch business. From conducting market research and creating a business plan to obtaining the necessary licenses and insurance, we have covered the essential aspects of setting up your venture. By following these guidelines, you can lay a strong foundation for your business and ensure its success in the long run.

Now, let me take a moment to motivate you to embark on this exciting journey of starting your own home watch business. I genuinely believe that this industry offers immense potential for growth and fulfillment. As someone who has been in the business for several years, I have witnessed firsthand the satisfaction that comes from providing peace of mind to homeowners and ensuring the security of their properties.

Starting a home watch business allows you to be your own boss, set your own schedule, and work in an industry that is both rewarding and flexible. It offers you the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with clients and make a positive impact on their lives. With the right mindset, dedication, and a willingness to learn, there is no doubt in my mind that you can succeed in this field.

To set yourself apart from the competition, I encourage you to be creative and think outside the box. Offer additional services such as plant care, mail collection, or even home staging for clients who are away for extended periods. Building a strong online presence through a user-friendly website and social media platforms can also help attract potential clients and establish credibility in the industry.

In my opinion, the key to success in this business lies in providing exceptional customer service and building trust with your clients. Always go the extra mile, communicate effectively, and address any concerns promptly. By doing so, you will not only retain loyal clients but also benefit from positive word-of-mouth referrals.

So, if you have the passion, drive, and determination to start your own home watch business, I say go for it! Take the leap and embark on this fulfilling entrepreneurial journey. With the right preparation and a commitment to excellence, there is no limit to what you can achieve in this thriving industry. Good luck!

How to Start a Metaphysical Business

How to Start a Nurse Consulting Business

How to Start a Lawn Mower Business

Home Watch Business Owner

Video welcome, diane pisani .

Patrick Jones - Course author

Sign in/up with Google

Sign in/up with Facebook

Sign in/up with Linkedin

Sign in/up with Apple

Sign in/up with Twitter

This field, is required.

You have not accepted the "Terms & Conditions".

How to Start a Home Watching Business

by Gina Ragusa

Published on 26 Sep 2017

Homeowners who don't want to worry about their home and personal property while they are away hire a house sitter. A house sitter monitors a home for theft, vandalism and damage and oversees regular maintenance. Typical clients range from vacationing homeowners to seasonal residents. Before starting a home watching business, do what's necessary needed to launch a business. Check with your state licensing board to obtain necessary business licenses and permits.

Research the competition and the business. Before you jump into any new venture, obtain as much information as possible about the industry’s background, trends and future direction. Most important, check out the local and national competition. Learn what services and amenities competitors provide their clients, obtain a price sheet and scan local newspapers and the Internet for ads to see how other companies market their services. Identify your target audience. For example, if you live in Florida, prospective clients may be seasonal or retired homeowners who leave their house vacant for a long time.

Create a business plan that details how you will start your home watching business. Include information about your competition, target audience, industry direction, industry and local challenges, start-up costs, proposed prices, permitting and licensing, specific products and services, employees, marketing, future plans and an exit strategy. If you'll be using the business plan to attract investors, include a section about how involvement in the business will benefit the investor. Add information about needed start-up cash too.

Meet permitting and licensing requirements. Ask your state licensing board just what you need to start your business. For example, owners of a house sitting business featured in The Naples News said they had to complete paperwork on zoning, licensing and bonding.

Develop an ironclad contract for all clients to sign. A signed contract protects you and your employees from being sued or held liable for damages or mishaps beyond your control while you watch the home. For best results, hire an attorney to create your contract. Include statements about what each party agrees upon, emergency contacts and the care of the home. If your company offers additional amenities such as pet sitting, maintenance and repairs, add a clause on your duties and the services you will supply.

Promote your business. Launch a website, create a flyer and market your service to neighbors and local homeowners associations. Ask homeowners associations if you can speak during a monthly meeting, discussing the importance of keeping your home safe while you're gone. Distribute flyers during the meeting too, and ask the homeowners association if you can put flyers in neighbors’ mailboxes and post a flyer on the community bulletin board. Develop a referral program, providing discounts to homeowners who refer friends and family members to your business when the referral results in in a sale.

If you hire employees, do background checks on them and have them bonded, regardless of state requirements.

Keep overhead low by operating your business from your home.

If you want to do pet sitting also, contact the state licensing board to ensure that you have the proper permit to pet sit.

SOLUTIONS - As you grow...

Home watch app 3.5.

We have the ONLY full-featured Home Watch Business Management System that includes everything you need to run your business:   home watch scheduling,  client in-residence calendar, RBO reservation processing, vendor management,  planning and forecasting, portals for customers and vendors, full accounting that is bi-directionally synchronized with QuickBooks.     For more information please see our introductory video here and the additional details below!

Accounting/Invoicing

With a deep finance background we easily tested to become a QuickBooks Elite ProAdvisor, and we know how to make the best use of QuickBooks' features to streamline your home watch business' bookkeeping.   We'll guide you through using the following features in your business:

Easily flag your expenditures to re-bill a client

You purchase things all the time for your clients -- RBO supplies, plumbing repairs, pest control, etc.  Rather than tracking those receipts in a shoebox, and trying to remember who to bill for what, it's easy to attribute these expenses directly to a client.   Then, when you are ready to invoice the client you can add them with the push of a single button.  We'll show you how easy it is!

Know when your clients view your invoices (and when they pay them)

E-mailing invoices is easy and professional -- knowing when clients open them (or not) helps put you in a better position to manage expectations.   A simple "Pay Now" button is also included so you are in charge of the workflow every step of the way.

Don't rely on a system that just generates an invoice but does nothing with it!  You need to track it, manage what's open and paid, and make it easy and flexible for your clients!

Integrate your information with other systems

Method:CRM, used for scheduling and client management (as described below) is fully integrated so that any information you add in there is automatically synchronized with QuickBooks, and vice versa.  This is true bi-directional synchronization, not just a one-way dump of data into QuickBooks.

No need to re-key information to do your bookkeeping!

Home Watch App 3.5 & CRM

Managing all the information you collect about a client -- from their first contact with you through their life as your client -- is more important than ever as you grow.  You just can't remember and juggle all of the moving parts by memory or on paper any longer.

Used by thousands of companies worldwide, Method:CRM allows you to manage all aspects of this life cycle.  When you add Home Watch IT's home-watch specific application to Method's standard package, you have the most powerful and flexible business management system available for the home watch industry.

Home Watch IT was awarded the Best Integrator of 2020 title by Method:CRM validating our detailed and advanced approaches to using the platform for your Home Watch Business!

Manage all of your client's sensitive information in one central location

Keep gate codes, alarm codes, lockbox codes, miscellaneous notes in a secure environment, accessible when you need it and where you need it.    You can keep all of the client's contact information (phone, email, etc.) as well as the contact information of their specific service providers (such as the pool man or landscaper) in a single place.

Work Orders, Route List create and optimization

Each of your home visit or concierge activities starts with a work order.  Create a single template work order for each client with their individual rates and requirements and let the system automatically schedule it every week, every other week, or whatever other interval you need.  The work orders automatically create your daily routes.

The system manages your daily routes for you, and you can access all of the pertinent information via an app, a web browser, or a printed route list -- your choice.   As you plan, use the smart capabilities of the system to re-schedule your routes based on your calendar plans.  Plot the routes on a map and optimize them for best drive times if you wish.

At the end of the month (or beginning, or middle -- it doesn't matter) the work orders come together to create invoices for you (that show up instantly in QuickBooks as well) without you having to think twice, resort to a calendar and start counting, dig out mileage logs....whatever process you use to create invoices today.

Track vendor expenses as they occur by adding them directly to the work order.  They'll also show up in QuickBooks so that you can manage them and pay them as usual.

Easily Track & Plan for RBO Rentals and When Clients Come and Go

If you manage turns and housecleanings for RBO properties (AirBNB, VRBO, HomeAway, etc.) you can now track all of the bookings and schedule housecleanings and walkthrough services automatically.   The system will generate and automatically email your housekeeping service with updated schedules so there is no need to individually track and plan those.

Multiple calendars, coordinating services, tracking guests wishes, are all simplified through a single-screen entry point.  Managing RBO properties just became simple.

Give your housekeepers and vendors a portal where they can view the schedules you have for them and they can notify you when the work is complete.

Home Watch details in our mobile application!

Our native phone/tablet application is an excellent way to work with data while away from the office.  Our applications are all mobile usable and available based on who the user is:  1-Get all of your client info and work orders from the app, or 2-A "Route Only" app used for limited access by your employees while performing home visits.   You set the security.

The apps also provide an easy workflow method of internal communications so that you know exactly what's going on in the field and create a "To Do" list for the admin to manage with respect to scheduling and billing.  Nothing gets lost in a paper shuffle.

Automatically start and perform your reports directly from the app.

Both are valuable additions only available from Home Watch IT!

Synchronize to/from your Gmail calendar and email systems

All of your route schedules and work orders synchronize to your existing calendar.  This allows you to easily access the information from your smartphone calendar, your desktop computer, or wherever you currently use your calendar.   Need to move a couple of appointments?  Easy -- move them in the calendar and the change will synchronize back to the system without you having to think about it.

What about those emails -- they can get unwieldy with so many!   Store them in the system as client activities with the push of a button.   You now have a centralized place to view:  emails, phone calls records, work orders, client info, invoices and payments.    You and the client can easily correspond via email using methods that you are both used to, whether it be on your computer, tablet, or smartphone.  There's no need to log into portals to correspond (unless you want to!!).    All of your communications are easily managed and placed in a single place so that you don't have to go searching.

You can track "pre customer" activities

Your website's contact form can automatically add lead information into the system, along with a sales opportunity.  You can then easily track all interactions with the lead (phone calls, emails, etc.) as well as add reminders to follow up with them until you close the deal.  The website linkage is optional -- everything else is included.

Once they become a customer -- you're set with all of the interactions to date already in place.

This is a full customer lifecycle CRM system!  You can add additional features like Sales Opportunity management, lead management, email list management, etc. 

Full-service IT and Home Watch Consulting

Remember -- we've started a home watch business before and can help you with anything IT and business related.   Some of the areas we can and have assisted others include:

Getting and setting up your domain (your .com address)

Helping you set up a robust email and document storage system

Pricing your business offerings

Handling accounting requirements and situations

And much more!

Need more details? Contact us

We are here to assist. Contact us by phone, email or via our Social Media channels.