Swap Your Home While on Vacation This Holiday

You live in the Conejo Valley but could have a flat in London, a penthouse in New York and a chateau in Switzerland – if you’re a home swapper. Just as you might be yearning for an urban getaway, someone else may want a suburban excursion, so do it at half the cost by trading places for free.

Since the 1950s, its popularity has grown, especially during this recession – up 25% since 2008. In fact, the average traveler saves $1,500 a week in a house swap as opposed to renting accommodations while on holiday.

Pro: House swap vacationers immerse themselves in the culture and often visit areas not discovered by tourists staying at a hotel. Cons:  A maid won’t come to freshen up the place, room service can’t bring that forgotten toothbrush, and the concierge doesn’t inform you of the one-night only event in town.

Here’s how it works: 1) you list your home online, for about $150, with a house-exchange service 2) find your dream swap – could be a condo, villa, or a single family – where you want to vacation 3) make the trade. Of course, it’s not quite that simple, there’s much to know before putting out the welcome mat.

Know Your Swap Options. There are three types of house swaps: 

• Traditional – each swap partner trades and vacations at the same time.
• Non-simultaneous – one or both homeowners have more than one residence, so each trades at their own convenience.
• Hospitality – each swap partner takes turns and vacations while the homeowner is there. (Nice if you prefer to not leave your home unattended, but not so much if it means acting as their tour guide).

Know Your Swap Value.  Trading up from a modest apartment to a four-bedroom penthouse isn’t likely. The easiest swaps will be with residences similar to your own – like a single family for a beach house, or a townhouse for a villa, and it’s a common practice to trade down for popular destinations like Hawaii, Paris and New York City. But just like timeshares or vacation rentals, if you plan ahead and put your request in early, you could land a swapping good deal – especially if you vacation off-season.

Know Your “Swapee”. For a swap match made in heaven, minimize the conflict. Document swap expectations and investigate their swap reputation.

• Are amenities like golf, community pool and tennis courts included? Are pets allowed? Do both parties have sufficient homeowner’s insurance? Are other visitors allowed in the home? What housekeeping is expected? Reputable home exchange companies will provide agreement letter templates for your reference.

Of course, home swapping isn’t for everyone, but those that do continue to enjoy less expensive vacations in dream destinations.

ABOUT ME:

I live, work and play in Conejo Valley and specialize in Agoura Hills and Westlake Village real estate.

Where you live is more than a roof over your head. It should improve your quality of life – spiritually, emotionally and psychologically.

In my home and garden articles, you’ll find some great tips on how to make your house, not just a home, but a sanctuary.

Through my blog, I hope you’ll also gain some insight and find tips and resources that will help you navigate through the current market, whether you're buying or selling.

Have any tips to share? Please do so in the comments section or connect with me via: My website,Email, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, or LinkedIn

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