How to Prepare a Car for House Swapping

House swapping is becoming widely accepted as a sensible and affordable solution to housing while on vacation. Two families, from different places, exchange houses for an agreed upon period of time. Including the family car as part of the package deal is another cost effective option that will eliminate the need for both parties to rent a car while on vacation.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Notify your car insurance company in writing of the fact that you are doing a house swap with another family and you will be swapping cars with them during that period. Your insurance company will need to know the names and driver's license numbers of anyone who will be operating the car.
2. Clean your car both inside and out. Throw away any trash in the car or trunk, remove your personal belongings, vacuum it out and wash the windows. If the weather is nice leave the windows down for a day and air it out before leaving it, especially if it will be sitting for awhile before the other family arrives.
3. Check the glove compartment to be sure the Owner's Manual, registration and insurance papers (if your state requires they be carried), are all present and easy to locate.
4. Leave some local maps or an atlas out on the seat of the car where the driver will see them.
5. Put everything in writing that was agreed upon and have it signed by both parties. This should include things such as who is responsible for paying for any repairs that might be required on the car while the other family has it and is there a mileage limit on how much it can be driven.