A Perfect Home Exchange—Avoiding Problems

Problems with home exchanges are rare.
 
The most common issue reported has to do with different standards of cleanliness. If you have a serious problem with your exchange, you should discuss it with your exchange partner right away.
 
As we all know with any type of holiday sometimes things can go wrong. So how do you reduce the risk of a serious problem arising during or after a home exchange?
 
As any particular situation will always be unique, we've tried put together a broad list of tips and suggestions to help reduce the risk of something going wrong and have you enjoy a perfect home exchange.

Before Agreeing to an Exchange

Communicate, communicate, communicate. Ask a lot of questions of the potential home exchanger. Get to know them before deciding whether this exchange is right for you. As you are getting to know each other, you are building trust.
 
Exchange references. You may find it reassuring to exchange references. Previous exchange partners are ideal references.
 
Sign an agreement. It is a good idea to sign an informal written agreement outlining the terms of the swap. Include how to handle damage, if it were to occur and who pays for typical household expenses. (Most exchangers agree to continue to pay their own household expenses aside from long distance calls.)
 
If you are planning to swap a car include details regarding exchanging cars such as any restrictions regarding use and mileage, and maximum repair costs before making a claim.
 
As you discuss your exchange, you may wish to keep a check list of everything you agree to. You can then attach this list to the agreement.
 
Have a backup plan. Discuss a backup plan in case an emergency prevents one of the exchange parties from moving out of their home.
 
Buy your airline tickets. As most airline ticket fares are not refundable, do not buy tickets until you are certain you have a definitive exchange. If possible, you should agree to buy them around the same time. As an extra reassurance, you can exchange copies of your airline tickets with your exchange partners.
 
Trust your instincts. If you are uneasy about the exchange, then walk away. Never agree to an offer if you feel uneasy about it. It is better to possibly cause some disappointment early in the exchange process than to have regrets later.