Exceptional homes do not operate by chance. They are structured, intentional, and sustained by individuals who understand discretion, responsibility, and standard. Estate hiring is not a transaction. It is a disciplined decision that influences the stability and culture of the home for years to come.
The quality of a home is sustained by the quality of its people.
Care defines our search.
Discipline defines our process.
FAQs
WHAT IS CRIMMINS, AND HOW DOES YOUR PROCESS WORK?
Crimmins is a search and placement firm for private households and family offices. We do not broker resumes. We run a structured search. That begins with defining the role precisely, understanding household leadership style, and clarifying operational expectations. We then assess the market, vet thoroughly, and present individuals aligned not only in skill, but in standard and judgment.
WHEN SHOULD I ENGAGE WITH CRIMMINS INSTEAD OF HIRING ON MY OWN?
When discretion matters. When authority is involved. When the role affects the stability of the home. Independent hiring often lacks market perspective and structured vetting. A disciplined search reduces risk and protects long term continuity.
WHAT INFORMATION SHOULD I HAVE READY BEFORE STARTING A SEARCH?
Responsibilities, reporting structure, schedule expectations, compensation range, benefits, travel needs, household culture, security sensitivities, and long term vision. Clarity at the beginning strengthens the outcome.
WHAT DOES THOROUGH VETTING INCLUDE?
Identity verification, direct conversations with former principals or supervisors, background screening through a third party provider, review of employment consistency, and assessment of professional reputation.
WHAT BACKGROUND SCREENING IS APPROPRIATE?
Criminal screening, Social Security verification, motor vehicle checks when relevant, and compliance or drug testing when required. We engage AccuSourceHR, a United States based third party provider operating in accordance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act with proper authorization.
HOW SHOULD I VERIFY REFERENCES?
Direct conversations with prior principals or supervisors to confirm responsibilities, performance, reliability, discretion, and overall professionalism.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN W2 AND 1099?
Most household staff should be classified as W2 employees. Misclassification can create tax and legal exposure. Consult a qualified tax or employment professional when unsure.
WHAT ARE MY PAYROLL RESPONSIBILITIES AS A HOUSEHOLD EMPLOYER?
Payroll tax withholding, employment reporting, and compliance documentation. Many families use professional household payroll services.
SHOULD I USE AN EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT?
Yes. A written agreement should outline responsibilities, schedule, compensation, confidentiality, benefits, housing terms if live in, and termination provisions.
HOW DO I DECIDE BETWEEN LIVE IN AND LIVE OUT STAFF?
Consider schedule demands, privacy preferences, flexibility needs, and available space. Live in supports extended hours and travel. Live out supports structured schedules.
WHAT SCHEDULE OPTIONS ARE COMMON IN PRIVATE HOUSEHOLDS?
Full time, part time, seasonal, temporary, multi residence, and travel based roles. The structure must reflect the operational reality of the home.
HOW IS COMPENSATION PROPERLY SET?
Compensation reflects responsibility, scope of authority, schedule intensity, geography, and experience. Underpaying creates turnover. Overpaying without structure creates confusion. Proper alignment protects retention and stability.
WHAT BENEFITS ARE TYPICAL?
Paid time off, paid holidays, health insurance or stipend, year end bonuses, housing for live in roles, and travel expenses when applicable.
WHAT IS A WORKING INTERVIEW OR TRIAL?
A paid working trial allows both sides to evaluate real world performance before confirming employment. Chemistry in conversation is not the same as execution inside the home. A trial reduces uncertainty.
HOW LONG DOES HIRING TYPICALLY TAKE?
Typically three to six weeks depending on role complexity and candidate availability. Stability is prioritized over speed.
HOW DO REPLACEMENT GUARANTEES WORK?
If a placed professional departs or is terminated for valid reasons within the agreed period, we conduct a replacement search without an additional placement fee. Stability matters. The guarantee reinforces accountability on both sides.
HOW IS PRIVACY PROTECTED DURING A SEARCH?
Limited disclosure, structured communication, confidentiality agreements when appropriate, and controlled information flow.
WHAT POLICIES SHOULD BE COMMUNICATED ON DAY ONE?
Schedule expectations, communication standards, confidentiality, security procedures, household rules, emergency protocols, and performance standards.
WHAT ARE BEST ONBOARDING PRACTICES?
A structured walkthrough of routines, introductions to existing staff, written standards, and scheduled check ins during the first weeks.
HOW SHOULD PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS BE SET?
Define measurable standards, priorities, timelines, and hold consistent check ins to reinforce clarity and accountability.
HOW ARE CONFLICTS OR PERFORMANCE ISSUES HANDLED?
Address concerns early, document specifics, establish improvement plans, and maintain professionalism and discretion.
WHEN SHOULD A HOUSEHOLD RESTRUCTURE OR ADD STAFF?
When workload exceeds capacity, responsibilities expand, or household demands increase beyond reasonable limits.
HOW DO I HIRE FOR MULTIPLE RESIDENCES OR HEAVY TRAVEL?
Ensure the job description clearly reflects multi property and travel expectations and prioritize professionals with demonstrated experience.
WHAT ARE BEST PRACTICES FOR SEASONAL OR TEMPORARY STAFF?
Begin searches early, define timelines clearly, and use written agreements outlining duration and standards.
HOW DO I PLAN FOR LONG TERM RETENTION?
Offer competitive compensation, clear standards, respectful communication, structured leadership, and consistent review.
WHAT IF I NEED TO END EMPLOYMENT?
Follow applicable employment laws, honor agreements, provide appropriate notice, and maintain professionalism and discretion.
Our Staffing Specialties
Household and Estate
Looking for someone who understands the intricacies of your busy estate? Trust our experienced candidates to ensure your property runs smoothly.
Nanny and Childcare
Our specialists provide exemplary care for your children, focusing on their safety, development, and well-being. Hire childcare with peace of mind that your children will be well cared for.
Lifestyle and Hospitality
Need someone who understands your busy and demanding lifestyle, and expertly knows how to streamline it? Our candidates are dedicated to assisting you.
Family Office
Family Offices, understanding the complexities of managing family wealth with the right blend of strategy, familial understanding, and operational support.