Retired couple cut their bills in half with incredible side hustle (2025)

A couple have told GB News that housesitting has allowed them to save on bills (Image: Getty)

A retired couple earn extra income and cut their energy bills by working as professional housesitters.

Donna and Frank Mountain, from North Yorkshire, told GB News that their their finances — and lifestyle — had been given a "welcome boost" by homesitting.

The extra income the couple has earned through this passion has been used to fund their holidaysand save on costs.

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Frank, 58, is a former RAF serviceman, while Donna, 60, worked as a teaching assistant.

Mountain told GB News: "Now we're retired, we can go away whenever we want, and homesitting makes that possible.

"It’s the perfect way to travel without the high accommodation costs while enjoying the company of pets. Every homesit is a new adventure.”

The couple say housesitting allows them to expore different parts of the Uk, they have travelled to London staying in Kensington and travelling up to Scotland.

As part of their housesiiting experience the couple also have cared for pets and have enjoyed return visits as well as made firm friends

Ben Irvine, director of operations at Homesitters Ltd, said: "Homesitting gives those thinking about early retirement the opportunity to earn extra income, stay engaged, and travel - all while looking after pets and homes.

"It’s a win-win, providing both financial rewards and personal fulfilment. For those ready to retire early, homesitting offers a way to dive right in.”

Homesitters Ltd said it was actively recruiting reliable, animal-loving people who want to maintain an active lifestyle.

The company specifically targets those looking to travel and earn extra income during retirement.

With financial concerns affecting many over-55s, homesitting represents an increasingly popular option for supplementing retirement funds without sacrificing quality of life.

Could you be a homesitter?

Homesitters said anyone can apply to become a homesitter but those are successful tend to share a number of characteristics. Typically, they are:

• Physically active
• Retired from a wide range of occupations or not in full-time / regular employment
• Available throughout the year
• Not looking for regular salaried employment
• Homeowners, capable of carrying out a range of tasks around the home
• Pet lovers, with proven pet-care skills and a genuine affinity for animals
• Sensible and reliable
• Good listeners.