There are many ways to go above and beyond to make the house owners happy. We list the ones that are the most important in our experience. (Appropriate care for the pets is a given!)
Make clear and realistic plans
Be proactive about all the plans - what time should you arrive, when should you leave. Be honest and if there is a risk that your train/plane might be late, communicate it and discuss plan B.
Make communication easy
A few days before the sit, consider a follow-up and ease their mind that you will be on their way and ready to take care of the house and their pets.
Read the welcome guide as soon as possible and know your stuff whenever interacting with the owners. (Know the pets’ names, remember their quirks or special needs.)
Ask if and how often they would like updates about your stay. Most people love pictures of their pets, so be sure to deliver some regularly.
Cleanliness
Before you leave, make sure everything is pristinely clean. Vacuum the floors, do the dishes, clean surfaces (kitchen counters, bathroom), and do laundry (should you also make the bed with a different set of sheets if yours does not dry before you leave?). Some house owners specify what they expect - make sure you do at least what they expect. Others leave it up to you, communicate with them when in doubt.
If someone you don’t know was staying at your home, what would annoy/disturb/frustrate you if they did not clean properly? You probably don’t need to clean windows, but should be sure not to leave your hair in the drain.
