I’ve recently started working from home rather than travelling 1hr+ to a city, paying travel costs, hotel, etc etc. and the added time it would take. However I am low volume (usually 1 clients a day for min 2hrs or at a push 2 clients). I started inviting regulars to my home as it seemed more logical to do so, I trusted them some what. I also own my house so no need to worry about landlords.
I do now advertise my profile in my local area and accept new clients to my house however I try to do my best at screening (AW feedback, check their number on CE, sometimes I even check their pic on WhatsApp or search their number on FB).
I don’t give them much access to my house. Straight upstairs to my spare room, all other doors are kept shut. To some I have said I’m just renting the room from a friend whilst they’re at work to make it seem like I don’t live there. To others I say I have a boyfriend that lives with me (should probably stick to one story) but I find this might put off any stalking ideas.
I never give out my house number until I know they are close by. I usually direct them to the road before me, tell them to park there and walk around, giving very clear instructions about which house is mine.
I do have neighbours opposite me that are retired so I’m not sure how much they see or what they think but as I own my house I’m not really bothered. And as I said I usually only have one per day so the traffic is very minimal.
I have a security camera but I’m not sure many would notice it. I’m thinking of getting a ring doorbell as this will be very noticeable and hopefully put people off if they want to cause trouble.
So far I’m loving it. I don’t have to work as much as I don’t have other costs to cover. I can fit it in around my day, and if I don’t get booked I haven’t lost out on overheads costs.
My friend has been working from home for around 5yrs and had no problems