Preparing your home for a home exchange ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your guests. Follow these key steps to get everything ready before your swap.

1. Clean and Declutter

Give your home a deep clean—vacuum, dust, and scrub all rooms, paying extra attention to high-use areas like the kitchen and bathroom. Declutter to create a tidy, welcoming space for your guests.

2. Fix Any Maintenance Issues

Take care of any minor repairs before your guests arrive. Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or any household issues that could impact their stay.

3. Prioritize Safety

Check that your smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers are in working order. If you have a security system, provide instructions on how to use it.

4. Secure Your Valuables

Lock away personal and valuable items in a secure cabinet, safe, or designated storage space. This ensures peace of mind for both you and your guests.

5. Create a Home Guide

Prepare a guide with essential information about your home, including:

• Wi-Fi details
• Appliance instructions
• Heating/cooling systems
• House rules and quirks
• Emergency contacts

If you're not sure how the home exchange process works or need more information, check out our How It Works page for a step-by-step guide.

6. Make Room for Guests

Clear some closet and drawer space for your exchange partner’s belongings. Provide hangers and empty a few bathroom and kitchen shelves for their use.

7. Share Local Tips

Put together a folder with maps, restaurant recommendations, nearby attractions, grocery stores, and transportation options to help your guests explore the area.

8. Inform Your Neighbors

Let your neighbors know about the home swap so they recognize your guests and can assist if needed. Share your exchange partner’s contact information for added reassurance.

9. Prepare the Kitchen

Remove perishable items from the fridge and pantry to prevent spoilage. Leave some non-perishable essentials your guests can use.

10. Consider Pets

If you have pets, discuss arrangements with your exchange partner. If they’ll be caring for your pet, provide clear instructions.

11. Do a Final Check

Before leaving, walk through your home to ensure everything is in order. Turn off appliances, switch off unnecessary lights, and lock all doors and windows.

By following these steps, you’ll create a comfortable and stress-free home swap experience for both you and your guests. Enjoy your exchange!
 

Stay connected and get inspired by other home swappers! Join our Facebook group for tips, community stories, and engaging discussions.

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