The best arrival is the one where you notice nothing at all: the house is cool, the water runs clear, the refrigerator hums and there is milk for the morning coffee. Here is what makes that happen.
A week or two ahead
- Confirm your arrival date and flight with whoever is caring for the house
- Book any service you want done before you arrive — cleaning, pool, pest control
- Restart mail delivery for the day after you land
Two or three days ahead
- Set the air conditioning to your living temperature so the house is comfortable and dry
- Turn the water and water heater back on, run every tap until it runs clear, and flush every toilet
- Switch on and check the refrigerator and freezer, and the ice maker
- Look for any sign of pests or leaks that appeared while the house was closed
The day before
- Open blinds and shutters as you like them
- Make the beds and set out fresh towels
- A few groceries in: milk, coffee, bread, fruit, water
- Start the vehicles, check the tyres and connect the garage door remote
Once you are home
- Test the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Change the air-conditioning filter if it is due
- Read through the season’s visit reports and any open items
Arrival readiness is part of the ALWAYS membership and available to AWAY members, so the house is ready before you turn the key.
Haven Free keeps homes in Sarasota and Manatee Counties by membership — watched while you are away, cared for while you are here. See the memberships ›