Q. Can I trust my home to strangers?

A. Most people who house swap are mature, considerate and conscientious about other people's belongings. Before committing, establish a relationship through e-mails and phone calls. You can also request references from previous exchangers.
 
Have a family member or friend greet your exchange family and check in on them during the exchange.
 
And remember while they are staying in your home, you are staying in theirs.

Q. Is a house swapping holiday suitable for me?

A. Vacation house swapping appeals to all types of people including retirees, business professionals, couples, families and singles.
 
If you are flexible, enjoy meeting new people and do not mind having strangers in your home, trading houses not only provides significant cost savings but is also a great way to make new friends and live like a local while on vacation.

Q. As part of the house swap, can I also exchange my car?

A. Absolutely! Most people also exchange their car, resulting in significant additional savings.

Q. What about insurance?

A. Once you have concluded your exchange, you should contact your insurance company. Each insurance company is different but most are happy to know that your home will not be left unattended, especially during a long period.

Q. Any suggestions for ensuring I find someone to swap houses with?

A. A house swap can be concluded within days of posting an offer or it may take several months. Waiting for the dream exchange may reduce the chances of a house swap.
 
To increase the chances of finding, a good and fair exchange, be flexible on dates, destination, length of stay and accommodation type. In addition, you should post your house trade listing early. This also has the advantage of getting to know your exchange partner before making a commitment.
 
We also highly recommend that you post pictures of your home. Listings with photos receive significantly more responses than those without.
 
For a comprehensive set of tips on finding an exchange, read Securing a Holiday Exchange.

Q. Can I swap my second (holiday) home?

A. Yes. Swapping second homes allows you to trade unused time periods in a holiday home. This has the advantage of providing better flexibility in dates, as each swap need not be simultaneous. In addition you also have the possibility of offering two homes for that popular destination, making your offer more attractive than someone elses.

Q. I don't own my home. Can I swap my apartment rental?

A. Swapping your apartment for a short period of time is no different than having guests visit while you're away.
 
However we strongly recommend that you check your lease or contact your landlord / property manager before swapping your apartment.
 
Even though no money changes hands, an apartment swap may be perceived as a sublet by some landlords / property managers. Your lease may include subletting rules that include restrictions on the length of time you may be away from home. Or your lease may not allow subletting without the landlord's written consent.
 
It is best to contact your landlord / property manager and ask them how they feel about guests staying over in the apartment while you're away on holidays.

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