Caretaker Couple Needed - Healdsburg, CA

Open the door to a rare opportunity!

Assist us with planting – which we love doing.    (Major soil work/prep is contracted.) Planted areas: an open field (about an acre +-) for veg. and melons, and several raised beds for greens, herbs, tomatoes, and delicate items and the most used – celery – peppers, etc.  Ongoing – every season -- weeding, raking, sweeping, and keeping all the driveways in/out clear of debris. 

This is NOT a paid position; however, if you have the qualifications, and desire to work over the hours of the exchange, we would pay fair market for your time and skills.

Rents in this area are very high, and work-exchange opportunities are rare.

Fair hourly rate will be paid for hours worked over the exchange.

This private, gated, property is located about ten miles (15 minutes) from the Healdsburg plaza – 95448.  Approximately three acres – with (one additional just cleared for planting – growing with year-round sun) is part of this work-exchange (approx. 25 - 30hr/week total between  two people) for: the grounds and building maintenance only. NO VINEYARD WORK.

Offering: 2B/1.5 bath, mostly furnished, private residence with three fireplaces - 2 wood burning, and 1 electric.  Granite bathroom counters, travertine floor with a soaking tub.  

Lots of natural light and great views of Mt. St. Helena.  Two decks, with furniture to relax and enjoy the sunset, or watch the many migratory birds.

Water and garbage service included.  You pay propane (inside wall heater – and an enclosed, wrapped, water heater) and PGE – separate and dedicated meters – service secured as your account, billed for your use only.  High-speed internet available (off Mt. St. Helena). Phone lines (two installed) and DirecTV or Dish - (contracts on own.)

The property is on a well and septic system.  Current CO. permit allows for two people only.  Safe products and use are required.  Owners pay for the electrical service to run the well. 

Must have experience with landscaping and knowledge of irrigation systems.  Both installation of new and a constant eye for leaks and repair, as needed.  Solar installation or interest a + for a year-round greenhouse.  Ideal for someone who loves growing from seeds or small starts.  Background or work -related history in construction.  We require competency in repairs/replacement of all electrical and plumbing issues.  Tools of the trade helpful.  You must have reliable transportation, as not near public transit – please, no more than two vehicles.  Parking is secure, but currently uncovered.  Plans to build a carport and storage near caretaker’s section – 2018 project. 

Fall fruit (pears, apples, nectarines, cherries, pineapple guava, and quince) harvest support.

Ideal property for culinary types who love to preserve – can or create!  

Dividing bulbs.  Pruning – dead heading roses, is on-going during the summer.  Tree trimming, cutting into firewood, wood splitting, stacking, and covering, before the winter rains.  Help manage burn piles during the authorized season.  Projects – as assigned.  Opportunity to work over the exchange; however, to qualify - MUST have skills, primarily related to construction for larger - specific projects, at least interest to assist. Maintain outbuildings: large shop with paint vault - potting shed, storage sheds, wine cellar, and tea house.  Monitor, clean and fill numerous bird baths and fountains.  Vision to create more water elements a major + for all the native and migratory birds – large and small.

Domestic work would be considered, optional – not a requirement