Home Watch Services
Providing Peace of Mind for Second Homes in Bend and Throughout Central Oregon
At Deschutes Home Watch, we provide professional Second Home Management and concierge services for homeowners in Bend, Sunriver, Sisters, and all of Deschutes County. Our mission is simple: to give you complete peace of mind knowing your home is cared for, protected, and maintained by trusted professionals.
We are not a housesitting company. Instead, our Home Watch specialists conduct scheduled, in-person inspections designed to identify issues before they become costly problems. From weather damage and leaks to system checks and security verification, we act as your trusted eyes and boots on the ground while you are away.
Deschutes Home Watch is Central Oregon’s trusted choice for Second Homes Management and professional concierge care.
What We Offer
Tailored Home Watch Plans for Every Property
Your home is unique, and your Second Home Management plan should be too. Deschutes Home Watch offers flexible service levels to fit every homeowner’s needs. Each visit includes a comprehensive, tailored report with time-stamped photos, so you always know exactly how your home is doing while you are away.
The Ponderosa
Weekly Visits
Our most complete option, ideal for homeowners who want consistent oversight and prompt response. We perform detailed inspections every week, ensuring your home stays secure and well maintained.
The Juniper
Two (2) Visits per Month
A balanced choice for second homes or seasonal residences. Our twice-monthly visits include full property inspections and detailed reports tailored to your home’s systems and needs.
The Sagebrush
One Visit Per Month
Perfect for homeowners who want ongoing peace of mind with reliable monthly check-ins. Each visit includes a personalized Home Watch report outlining our findings and any recommended actions.
Every plan is designed to protect your investment, prevent surprises, and deliver true peace of mind.
Deschutes Home Watch is your trusted home sitter alternative in Bend and Central Oregon, offering professional house minding and home services for discerning homeowners.
Our Inspection Checklist
Interior Inspection
Verify all doors are locked, secured, and functioning properly
Ensure windows are locked and free of damage
Adjust and confirm thermostat settings for optimal temperature control
Inspect for any signs of water leaks or moisture damage
Check all sinks and faucets for drips or corrosion
Flush toilets to maintain seals and prevent buildup
Test the stove, oven, and major kitchen appliances for proper operation
Inspect and test the refrigerator and icemaker; turn on or off as needed
Run the washing machine, dishwasher, and garbage disposal to ensure functionality
Test telephone line or communication systems (if applicable)
Verify HVAC operation and inspect/replace filters as needed
Inspect the water heater for proper performance and signs of leaks
Test GFCI outlets throughout the home
Inspect the garage interior, including access doors and lighting
Test garage door opener for smooth operation and security
Test and confirm smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning
Check indoor lighting
Test fireplace or heating system for safety and performance
Verify ceiling fans operate correctly and are balanced
Exterior Inspection
Inspect roof and gutters for debris buildup, blockages, or damage
Report and document any critical snow accumulation on rooflines or walkways
Check siding and exterior walls for cracks, damage, or signs of wear
Evaluate landscape, trees, and vegetation for health, overgrowth, or storm damage
Bring in mail, newspapers, and package deliveries for security and privacy
Inspect all outdoor plumbing and hose bibs for leaks or freeze risk
Examine fences, gates, and exterior structures for stability and condition
Cycle garage door to ensure smooth and secure operation
Look for signs of rodent, pest, or insect activity around the property
Observe for any evidence of trespassing or unauthorized entry
Check crawl space vents for seasonal protection and airflow
Test and verify exterior lighting for proper operation
Conduct a visual inspection of the spa or pool area, noting water level, cover condition, and cleanliness
Frequently Asked Questions About Professional Home Watch Services
What is a professional second home management service?
Professional Home Watch is a preventive care service for unoccupied homes. It goes beyond a simple walkthrough by combining routine maintenance checks, safety monitoring, and condition reporting. Each visit is designed to help identify issues early, such as water intrusion, mechanical failures, weather-related damage, or security concerns, so they can be addressed before becoming costly problems.
What do you check during a Home Watch visit?
During each visit, we perform a comprehensive visual inspection of both the interior and exterior of the home. Typical checks include, but are not limited to:
Signs of water leaks, moisture, or freezing risks
HVAC operation and thermostat settings
Electrical power and lighting status
Doors, windows, and access points
Exterior condition, including roof lines, drainage areas, and entryways
General condition indicators that help keep the property in good working order
Our goal is to help maintain your home in good condition while it is vacant, not just confirm that it “looks fine.”
Are Home Watch visits done at the same time each visit?
No. For security reasons, visit times are intentionally varied. Randomized inspection hours help avoid patterns that could signal to the public that a home is vacant, adding an additional layer of discretion and safety.
How do you help keep a vacant home from looking unoccupied?
Professional Home Watch includes attention to visual and behavioral details that can indicate vacancy. We avoid actions that would mark the home as empty, such as:
Using identifiable vehicle markings
Creating predictable visit schedules
Leaving visible signs of service activity
This approach helps your property blend naturally into the neighborhood while you’re away.
How often are Home Watch visits performed?
Visit frequency is customized based on your home, the season, and insurance requirements. Weekly and bi-weekly visits are most common, but we tailor schedules to balance preventive care, risk exposure, and homeowner preferences.
How is Home Watch different from property management?
Home Watch is designed for privately owned, non-rented homes. The focus is on monitoring, preventive care, and reporting while a property is vacant.
Property management applies only when a home is actively rented and includes guest or tenant coordination, operational logistics, and compliance. These are separate services with different responsibilities and systems.
What happens if I decide to rent my home in the future?
If you choose to transition from private use to renting, we can support that change through our affiliated property management services. Because we already understand your home’s systems, layout, and condition, the transition is efficient and minimizes disruptions.
How do you report issues and findings?
After each visit, homeowners receive a detailed report summarizing observations, confirming completed checks, and highlighting any concerns with related pictures. If an issue is identified, we notify you promptly and can coordinate next steps as needed.
How do I get started with Home Watch services?
Getting started is simple and can be done entirely remotely. We begin with a consultation to understand your home, travel schedule, and priorities. Contracts, reports, and invoices are all handled online, allowing you to enroll, receive detailed visit reports, and manage billing from anywhere. From there, we create a Home Watch plan tailored to your property and the level of oversight you want.
