Requesting review of my first listing

Hi all,

I just put up my first listing last week. I think I’ve successfully attached it to my profile.

I’d really appreciate any feedback, especially in attracting sitters to this remote spot.

Thanks in advance for your advice.

Sarah

I tried to look at your profile but got a message that says the profile is hidden.

The member’s listing is in their Forum profile. Click on the K- icon beside their message and the listing web address will appear.

Because it’s still new, it’s not an active link and you may to have copy and paste it into a browser, or you may have the option to click on Open Link, which will take you directly to the listing.

2 Likes

Yours is a nicely written listing- with impressive consideration of what a sitter might want to know, so well done on those points.

I think that I’d list the Donkeys as equines rather than farm animals though, but not sure if this is a THS option that you’ve misunderstood ?

I think I’d want to see something about the Vet service you use (elderly dog is a risk) and that you’ve set up a payment account. THS expects sitters to pay vet fees up front- but sitters pretty much will not do this, it’s just too risky in terms of being repaid by the HO.

If we were considering your location I’d certainly consider your listing.

4 Likes

I’m unable to see your listing. This is what I see:

1 Like

Just highlight the words to open the link it offers and it’ll take you straight there.

1 Like

I had already saved your listing, but am unavailable for this particular sit. You may need to list sits earlier when possible, as it will take an effort and planning even for us so-called locals, downstate.

3 Likes

You mention sunsets over Lake Superior. If you can get a good shot of a sunset through a window, you might want to make that your lead photo.

Some sitters have mentioned clutter as a turn off in a different thread. Your house looks rather busy. I suggest that you tidy up spaces to how you’d leave them for a sitter then take a photo. Your desk shot is a good example of what I’m referring to: lots of paper clutter with no working space for a sitter. Same with all the pots and pans drying in the kitchen.

Found it ! This horse lover (which includes donkeys, too) but averse to cold climes sitter has saved it for future reference.

Great details and it seems complete on all counts. Even though you refer to the spot as remote, your descriptions and the overall setting make the sit very desireable in my eyes. Good luck on finding a great sitter !

2 Likes

Thanks for clarifying that there’s a time delay on visibility. I was confused because I’m certain the “hidden” box is not checked.

2 Likes

Thanks. I’m completely new to this process, so delayed in getting started.

We do have future travel plans, so will add additional dates.

1 Like

Thanks for the feedback.

Good point about the vets; I’ll add that info.

THS lists donkeys under farm animals (maybe they don’t know biology?). Livestock may be more accurate in terms of the amount of effort required.

1 Like

It looks great, although I’m from the UK so not looking at travelling again to the US for at least 3 years.
One thing I’ve noticed is that you show one picture of a donkey but list two (Pearl and Zack) in the description. How many are there?

2 Likes

I had the same issue with the “users profile is hidden” and despite the helpful replies, the solution isn’t explained. But I figured it out. At least on a smartphone. Hold your finger on the users profile icon for a few seconds and a new screen pops up. There is a link there to the profile. Click it and after a brief delay the users THS profile comes up.

1 Like

That’s just the Forum profile not their website profile (2 different things) just in case they don’t realise….

Thanks for checking our listing. I’ll move some donkey pictures to the front section.

:frowning: I totally understand about not traveling to the US just now. :paperclip:

Good points, thanks!

Thank you! That is clearly visible to me now. I wonder if it was not visible 2 days ago when I had yet to post on this forum? Thanks again!

@Keweenaw_Sarah My response is solely on looking at photos. I have not read your listing. Here are some of my observations:

  • I agree with comments about clutter, especially for desk area.
  • I’d like a photo of the shower included
  • too many photos of animals - I counted Kallie in 11 photos. With dogs, I’m looking primarily for size & breed.
  • duplicate photos - two of bed (one too dark). Also, the bed pillows look really tired & uncomfortable. I’d suggest a new set as they’re not expensive.
  • Views in the snow don’t seem relevant for an October sit
  • Your first photo doesn’t draw me in. Seeing a dining room area doesn’t make your listing stand out.

I hope that helps.

I’m also one of the Canadians where I currently choose to make the US a no-go zone for me. :unamused_face:

2 Likes

I really like your house. I like art and you have so much to look at that it would be enjoyable to me. I think your house has a really warm vibe to it as well. I do not think it is cluttered as others have said. It is full of books and as an avid reader and member of a book club, I would enjoy looking at your selection. I like senior pets being a senior myself so I can relate to a little arthritis creeping in.

Personally I think you did not list early enough. I only use THS three or four times a year but plan three months out if I can. Nomads on here definitely have things lined up months in advance. I would not apply to your sits because of the donkeys. Wouldn’t be comfortable taking care of them. Maybe if you are not getting requests you can make taking care of the donkeys optional and have someone else take care of them for the time you are away either at your place or someplace out. If you will allow families to stay I would put that on top, Families Welcome as the percentage is lower for them who will accept them.

Good luck in getting a good sitter.