The home watch industry has long operated in the background of the real estate sector, but its profile is rising as more property owners demand professional oversight for homes they do not occupy full-time. Clem McDavid, founder of HomeLedger, a property technology company, notes that his platform, Watch Tower, now supports home watch operators in eight states, with the highest concentration in Florida and Arizona, followed by North Carolina, New York, and Colorado.
This geographic spread reflects broader trends in second home ownership. The pandemic spurred many individuals to purchase or retain vacation properties, yet many are neither equipped nor inclined to manage these homes remotely. As a result, the demand for home watch services has grown, offering regular inspections and maintenance coordination for absentee owners.
McDavid highlights a challenge in the industry: the emergence of marketing operations that present themselves as legitimate home watch companies but lack actual service capabilities. He compares these to "ghost kitchens" that advertise meals they cannot prepare. However, he argues that this phenomenon ultimately benefits genuine operators who can demonstrate a documented service history, as homeowners become more discerning and prefer proven reliability.
The application of home watch services is also expanding beyond traditional second homes. McDavid anticipates that younger homeowners will increasingly seek such services for their primary residences, valuing the convenience of having a professional check on their property periodically. This shift could broaden the customer base beyond seasonal coastal markets to include busy professionals in urban and suburban areas.
At the higher end of the market, there are already companies providing comprehensive services for ultra-high-net-worth estates, including full-time staff and household management. HomeLedger's customers include operators who work with high-end clients on property-related tasks, such as stocking a home before an owner's arrival or scheduling seasonal upkeep. This indicates that the home watch category serves a wide range of property values and service levels.
For McDavid, the common thread across all markets is the need for absentee homeowners to have a reliable, documented presence on their property. Operators who can prove consistent service are building durable businesses. As the industry expands into new states and property types, those who invest in professionalism and accurate record-keeping will be best positioned for future growth.
HomeLedger is a property technology company focused on the home watch industry, with its Watch Tower platform designed for operators managing vacant and seasonal properties. More information about HomeLedger's resources can be found on its resources page.
This article is based on information provided by the expert source cited above. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or real estate advice. Readers should conduct their own research and consult qualified professionals before making any real estate or financial decisions.
