How to Prevent Problems House Swapping
A recent phenomenon in vacationing is house swapping, in which two families agree to open up their homes to each other to save money on accommodations. They agree on a mutual time frame and stay in one another's homes while they engage in sightseeing and relaxation. This arrangement isn't without its challenges, but if you follow these steps, you can prevent problems while house swapping.
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Instructions
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Present your home honestly. One basic way to prevent the problem of disappointed house swappers is to describe your home accurately. People who are willing to participate in a house swap are looking for something specific just like you are, so be honest when listing your home's amenities.
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Apprise your neighbors of your plans. To avoid having your neighbors dispatching the police against your house guests, you need to let them know of your plans. Make them aware that strangers will be in the vicinity but that they're safe.
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Itemize the rules. Before you reach a house-swap agreement, you both need to exchange a list of what's allowed and what's not. Give each other a copy of this list so that you don't come home to any unpleasant surprises.
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Lock away any valuables. You hope that the people staying in your home are as honest as you are, but to provide added assurance, don't leave any valuable items or jewelry out in the open. Secure them in a lock box that you put away.
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Bring only those people you listed on the agreement. When you made the house swapping arrangements, you knew how many the house could accommodate and told the owners who would be traveling with you. Keep your word by not adding extra people at the last minute without their knowledge.
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Write a guide to your house. Before you leave, compile a handbook to the intricacies of your home, such as directions to operating appliances, electric panels, furnace, air conditioners and any other mechanical devices that your guests will need to know how to use.
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Confirm any last-minute details. Make contact with your house-swapping partners to verify dates and length of travel. Before getting on a plane, be sure you're on the same page.
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Tips & Warnings
For a successful house swap, make sure that you leave your house as clean as you expect to find your temporary home.
To prevent problems with insurance claims, let your agent know that you're participating in a house swap.
