Over the years, through our experience we have been able to compile this complete guide to a successful home exchange.

A good home exchange starts with good communication between the exchange partners:
once you found a potential exchange partner, start writing to each other and call if you can. Try to build a relationship, to get to know each other and understand other's tastes. Many members send small video clips about their houses. Write down a small contract where you both agree on dates, number of people travelling and services provided (use of the car,parking space,the bills, etc.)

Is anyone available to pick your partners up at the airport or the train station?
Travelling on the same dates means that your exchange partners will arrive in your city without knowing anybody. You could enlist someone to help them reach your house.

Decide how you will exchange the house keys, perhaps through a neighbour.
Specify also where your partner can find a set of key in case of emergency

It would be kind to leave some food in the refrigerator for your guests.

All things you use in the house should be bought when you leave.
Leave suggestions about where to find the nearest grocery store or shopping mall

Prepare a list of interesting places to see
Leave a map or invite your friends to help your exchange partners find their way around in the first days. This will help you feel more comfortable and safe while you are away.

If you have pets to be taken care of, leave your exchange partners instructions and remember to specify this point before the exchange.
Some people just don't like pets as much as you do.

Make a list of emergency phone numbers (fire department, police, hospital, etc.) and leave them close to the phone. This information is different from one country to another and your partner may not know them.

Inform your neighbours that there will be guests coming to stay at your home and encourage them to meet them.

Put important documents and jewellery in a safe place just to feel safer.
If you don't want your partner to use something just lock it away or notify them of this.

Talk about linen,pillows and towels (if you want them to bring them or if you will lend them yours)

Leave some space in the closets and in the bathroom for your partners to put their things.

Write down information about special devices like security systems or air conditioning. Explain how to close water, gas and electricity.

When you leave be sure that the house is in the same condition as you found it.
If you break anything inform your exchange partner.

Agree on who is going to clean the house at the end of the stay. If your partner must clean the house, if someone is going to be payed to do it or if you will.

If you exchange a second house like a holiday house, please be sure that at least the necessary is present.

Agree on payment of bills such as phone, water or gas. For short periods normally the owner pays the bills.

Decide if your partner should get your mail, leave it in the mailbox or at the post office.

If you are exchanging your car, be sure that your insurance will cover your partners.

Don't forget to tell us about your experience and rate your exchange partner on the website at the end of the stay.

Once you agree on a period and you book flights or trains, make a copy of tickets for your partners to let them know of your intention.