Vacant property, and on the market for sale?  Melissa Dittmann Tracey has written a must read article if you find yourself in this position.  The pros and cons of a house sitter, where and how to find a house sitter, the benefits of someone living in your home, instead of being vacant, while on the market to be sold.  Here’s the link:  http://www.realtor.org/rmohome_and_design/articles/2009/0901_home_housesitter