Communication is key to a successful home swap holiday

Home swapping is a fantastic way to travel but good communication is key

It’s hard to underestimate the importance of ongoing communication when arranging a home exchange holiday. It’s this communication that helps you and your potential home swap guests get to know one another, and that is how you build the foundation for a successful holiday.

Do your guests have kids?

It’s important to personalise your communication when discussing a possible swap. So, instead of sending a general copy and paste response, stop to think about the person who has expressed interest in your home. What can you learn about them from their initial message and looking at their home swap profile? What are they looking for? What’s most important to them? Most people offer at least a little information about themselves in their inquiry; consider what they’ve said when you respond. Why are they coming to your area? Do they have kids?

Tailoring your response goes a long way toward ensuring successful exchanges. For one thing, proper communication helps both you and the other party determine whether your place is right for them, saving you both wasted time if it is not. For another, communication helps you spot potential problems before finalising the arrangements (e.g. pet allergies, home not suitable for children, area requires a car, etc).

Communication should not stop once you’ve finalised your home exchange. Make sure your guests know what to expect, and what you expect from them. Continue to ask questions about the home and the area – remember, by arranging a home exchange, you have a fantastic resource of local tips and recommendations in your hosts, real locals! Keep your communications friendly and polite, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or probe for further information about anything that raises a red flag for you.

Ask your guests to leave a review

Continue to communicate even after the guests have moved into your home. Check with them to make sure everything’s okay. Let them know that you’re available if they have questions. It’s good to exchange several ways of communication during the swap such as mobile numbers, email and WhatsApp. Make sure to also follow up with your guests after they leave.

If you were pleased by the way they cared for your home, say so. If they said they had a great time, ask them to post a review on the home swap website.

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