The profession of a property caretaker couple or domestic couple is on the rise, especially among owners of large estates, vineyards, castle, ranch, or luxury villas.
This multifaceted role requires not only property management skills but also expertise in maintenance, security, and sometimes administration.
Whether you’re a property owner looking for a caretaker/domestic couple or interested in pursuing this profession, this article provides an overview of salaries, job offers, and current search trends.
The Role of a property caretaker/domestic couple – Shared responsibilities
A caretaker couple is typically hired to manage and maintain a large property. Responsibilities vary based on the specific needs of the owners but usually include:
- Overseeing the security of the property.
- Maintaining the garden, outdoor areas, and facilities such as pools or tennis courts.
- Supervising household staff or external contractors.
- Welcoming and serving guests, especially in vacation homes or second residences.
- Handling general maintenance tasks (plumbing, electrical work, cleaning, etc.).
These roles are often live-in positions, with accommodation provided on-site, allowing for continuous supervision. The caretaker couple becomes a key element in ensuring the safety and smooth operation of the property, especially when the owners are not present.
Salaries for property caretaker couples
Salaries for property caretaker couples vary depending on location, responsibilities, and experience. Statistics from Morgan & Mallet International indicate that in 2024, the average annual salary for a property caretaker couple is as follows:
- France and Monaco: Salaries range from €30,000 to €60,000 per person per year, depending on the size of the property and responsibilities. Positions in prestigious regions like the Côte d’Azur or Bordeaux tend to offer higher salaries.
- United Kingdom: In London and other rural areas with large estates, a caretaker couple can expect to earn between £40,000 and £70,000 per person per year. Jobs in private estates often require a wide skill set.
- United States: Couples working in luxury residences or for VIPs can earn between $70,000 and $200,000 per person per year, often with added benefits such as housing, insurance, and service vehicles.
Job Offers for caretaker/domestic couples in 2024
The job market for caretaker couples remains stable with growing demand. Agencies like Morgan & Mallet International regularly post job listings for caretaker couples around the world.
Regions with the highest demand in 2024 include:
- Europe: France, the UK, and Monaco are key employers of caretaker couples for large properties. These areas are home to many second residences and vacation homes that require constant upkeep.
- United States: In California and the northeastern states, many private estates seek caretaker couples to manage large properties and luxury residences. Job offers in these regions are highly competitive.
Global search trends for caretaker/domestic couples
Searches for the term “property caretaker couple” have been on the rise. In 2024, Google Trends showed a 10% increase in searches for terms like “looking for a caretaker couple” and “domestic couple jobs.” These searches reflect the growing interest in this profession, particularly in areas with a high concentration of luxury properties.
Regions with the highest search volume include:
- France and Monaco (especially the french Riviera and the Alps)
- United Kingdom (particularly rural counties)
- United States (California, New York)
How to Hire a caretaker/domestic couple
Hiring a domestic/caretaker couple requires careful consideration to ensure the candidates have the necessary skills and experience to meet the specific needs of the property.
For quality recruitment, it’s recommended to work with specialized agencies like Morgan & Mallet International, which offers a selection of experienced couples for property caretaker positions.
What Are the qualifications and skills required to become a Domestic/caretaker Couple?
A domestic/caretaker couple needs to possess a wide range of skills, from building maintenance to staff management. Additionally, experience in hospitality or estate management is often required. Employers seek candidates who can manage a property independently while ensuring security and proper upkeep of all facilities.
Currently, the only formal training program and school for domestic couples in the world is offered by the Morgan & Mallet School, located near Bordeaux.
