Looking to attract top household staff? Learn how trial-to-hire relocation packages help private employers secure the best domestic professionals while reducing hiring risks.

What Are Trial-to-Hire Relocation Packages for Household Staff?

A trial-to-hire relocation package is a strategic hiring approach where private employers provide temporary relocation benefits during a 1–3 month trial period before offering permanent employment. This method has become increasingly popular among high-net-worth families and family offices seeking experienced domestic staff.

Who Typically Uses Trial-to-Hire Relocation?

This option is especially valuable when a candidate is relocating from out of state or moving to a new city. Instead of requiring the employee to immediately break a lease, sell a home, or uproot their life, a trial period creates a safe bridge.

During this time, the household and the staff member can:

Evaluate Fit – Both parties gain confidence that the working style, household culture, and daily expectations align.
Preserve Privacy & Comfort – Employers can ensure the candidate is a match before they move directly into a private residence or full-time role.
Avoid Disruption for Staff – Employees are not forced to make permanent financial or housing commitments until the position is secure.

For example, a house manager, personal assistant, or estate manager being recruited from another region may be highly qualified but hesitant to move without assurances. A trial relocation eliminates that barrier, making the role more attractive while still protecting the household’s discretion.

Key Components of Trial Relocation Packages:

Temporary housing (extended-stay hotels or furnished corporate apartments)
Daily per diem stipend ($75-$100) for meals and expenses
Transportation support (mileage reimbursement or rental car allowances)
Full relocation coverage upon successful trial completion

Why Private Employers Use Trial-to-Hire Relocation Programs

1. Attract Premium Domestic Staff Candidates

Top-tier household professionals, including estate managers, private chefs, nannies, and housekeepers, often receive multiple job offers. Providing comprehensive relocation support demonstrates your commitment to employee satisfaction and positions your household as a premier employer.

2. Minimize Hiring Risks for High-Level Positions

Private service roles require excellent personality fit and discretion. Trial periods allow both employer and staff member to evaluate:

Cultural compatibility within the household
Job performance in the actual work environment
Logistical considerations like commute times and local amenities

3. Tax-Advantaged Benefits Structure

When employers pay relocation expenses directly (booking accommodations, hiring movers), these benefits typically aren't considered taxable income for employees, making your offer more attractive without additional tax burdens.

Trial vs. Permanent Relocation: What to Offer When

Feature	Trial Period (1–3 Months)	Upon Permanent Hire
Housing	Extended-stay or furnished apartment	Reimbursement for first month’s rent, deposit, and application fees
Per Diem	$75–$100/day stipend for meals and incidentals	Allowances or reimbursements until fully settled
Transportation	Mileage reimbursement / rental car stipend or airfaire coverage	Full moving costs, including shipping of personal belongings
Relocation Costs	Limited to temporary housing and per diem	Full coverage of professional movers, utilities, and set-up costs
Paid Time Off	A few days to manage the move and settle in	Time for unpacking, licensing, enrolling children in school, etc.

Industry Standards for Household Staff Relocation Benefits

According to the Private Service Alliance (PSA), competitive household staff benefits now include:

Standard Benefits:

Health insurance plan or stipend
Paid holiday, paid vacation and paid sick leave
Guaranteed hours
Mileage reimbursement for vehicle use while on the job
Bonus incentives
Yearly raises
Basic relocation support

Premium Benefits That Attract Top Household Employees:

Comprehensive relocation packages (temporary and permanent)
Sign-on bonuses for hard-to-fill positions
Housing allowances in high-cost areas
Tax gross-up coverage for relocation expenses
Clothing allowances
Gym memberships
Meals or meal allowance
Life insurance
Vision and dental insurance

Best Practices for Implementing Trial Relocation Programs

For Estate Managers and Family Offices:

Budget appropriately: Plan for $8,000-$15,000 in trial period costs
Set clear expectations: Define success metrics for the trial period
Choose quality accommodations: Professional housing reflects your standards
Provide local orientation: Help staff navigate their new area

For Household Staff Candidates:

Research cost of living in the destination area
Understand what expenses are covered vs. personal responsibility
Clarify trial period evaluation criteria upfront
Plan for potential permanent move logistics

ROI of Trial-to-Hire Relocation Investments

Successful trial-to-hire programs typically result in:

Long-term retention rates for domestic staff
Reduced turnover costs
Improved household operations and family satisfaction
Enhanced reputation among domestic staffing agencies

Making Your Household the Employer of Choice

In today's competitive market for skilled domestic professionals, comprehensive relocation support isn't just a nice-to-have, it's essential for securing top talent. Trial-to-hire packages demonstrate your commitment to staff success while protecting your investment in the hiring process.

Key takeaway: The upfront investment in trial relocation packages pays dividends through improved hiring success rates, reduced turnover, and access to the most qualified domestic staff candidates.

Ready to Explore Trial-to-Hire Relocation for Your Household?

At My Household Managed, we understand that bringing someone new into your home is more than a hiring decision, it’s a matter of trust, privacy, and long-term harmony. A trial-to-hire relocation package offers both you and your future staff member the opportunity to ensure the relationship is the right fit before making a permanent commitment.

Our team works closely with families to design relocation and benefits packages that reflect your household’s standards while positioning you as a top employer in the private service market. From nannies and family assistants to estate managers, private chefs, and property managers, we connect you with professionals who are not only highly skilled but also aligned with your lifestyle and values.

Request a Private Consultation today to learn how we can structure a staffing solution tailored to your needs and experience the peace of mind that comes with hiring the right person the first time