Answer: housesat

AnswerCrossword Clue
HOUSESATProvided home security, in a way
HOUSESATHelped out vacationing friends, maybe
HOUSESATTook care of a vacationer's residence
HOUSESATWatched things
HOUSESATFilled in for a vacationer, in a way
HOUSESATCared for a home while the owner was away
HOUSESATMinded the mansion, e.g.
HOUSESATDid home work?
housesatHOUSESIT, to caretake an empty house