A great home swap starts long before you confirm dates. You need clear communication, a proper video call, and a basic understanding of what a safe, genuine exchange looks like. This guide breaks down the steps every member should take before agreeing to a home swap and the red flags you should never ignore.
 

Expect Quick, Practical Communication Off-Platform

Once both sides have agreed to a swap, it’s normal for people to share a phone number. Many members prefer WhatsApp because it’s faster for:

• organising a video call
• sharing a quick walk-through
• sending a few real-time details

The only purpose of off-platform chatting is convenience. Nothing else.

A Video Call Isn’t Optional; It’s a Due-Diligence Step

A real swapper will never dodge a video call.
You need to see the space. You need to talk to the person. You need to feel the vibe.
It’s not invasive; it’s smart. If they keep avoiding a call, that’s your first red flag.

Never Pay Anything Up Front 

One of the most common scams across home exchange platforms involves someone asking for cleaning fees before arrival.
Let’s be blunt:
A genuine home swap does not require you to send money upfront. Not for cleaning. Not for keys. Not for anything.

If a host insists on a cleaning fee and you’re genuinely comfortable with it, fine, but the payment should be made:

• at the end of your stay, or
• upon arrival once everything checks out

Never before you’ve even stepped foot inside the home. Ever.

Transparency Should Flow Both Ways

Before confirming a swap, you should both know:

• who’s staying (adults, kids, pets)
• what spaces are off-limits
• what’s expected upon leaving
• what to do in case something gets damaged
• how the key exchange works

If either side is vague or keeps pushing decisions “until later,” pull back. Swaps need clarity, not mystery.

Trust Your Instincts; They’re Usually Right

If someone feels off, presses you to “just confirm now,” or behaves like you’re inconveniencing them by asking basic questions, walk away. A genuine home swapper respects your need for information, because they need it too.

Watch for Off-Platform Rental Offers

Habiqo has keyword alerts to flag members who try to offer paid rentals instead of swaps.
If someone pushes you off the platform to discuss “rates,” “special offers,” or “quick rental options,” stop. That’s not allowed.
Report the member so it can be handled immediately.

Finalise the Swap on Habiqo; This Is Where Everything Becomes Official

Once you’ve had your video calls, done the walk-throughs, and both sides feel happy about the exchange and wish to proceed, you need to return to Habiqo to finalise the swap.
This step isn’t optional; it’s how the platform protects both of you.

Here’s what happens when you press Finalise Swap inside your dashboard:

• the swap is officially registered on Habiqo
• a reminder email is sent before the swap begins
• both parties are prompted to complete a Swap Agreement Form
• practical details are shared, including directions, access information, and key logistics
• your dashboard shows a countdown to your upcoming stay
• you receive a pre-swap checklist so nothing is missed

Reviews matter. They help build trust for the next member looking at that listing, and they give you the same credibility when other people check your profile.
A swap that’s finalised and reviewed carries far more weight than a swap arranged loosely through private chats.

A safe, successful home swap isn’t about rushing; it’s about clarity, communication, and following the right steps. Once you’ve had your calls, walk-throughs, and finalised everything on Habiqo, you can relax and enjoy your upcoming stay. Remember: keeping everything on the platform protects you, the other member, and ensures a smooth, trustworthy exchange.

Thinking about home swapping? Habiqo offers a clear, supported way to get started. Get started here.

Now you’re ready to swap with confidence — happy swapping!

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