For families planning a holiday in France, a house near Reims with a heated pool and space for 10 people might seem out of reach. But it can be yours for nothing if you are willing to swap your own home with the owner. Regular home swappers say they save tens of thousands of pounds while building lasting connections.
Websites such as Family Home Swaps charge fees, but these are eclipsed by the potential savings, according to founder Susannah Cery. To find the perfect swap, list your home with honest details, including upsides and downsides, amenities, and nearby attractions. Include plenty of photos and mention transport links and distances to beaches or cities.
Françoise Campbell, who started swapping her central London flat last year, says she and her partner receive many inquiries. They look at the other person’s profile to gauge personality and how the home is kept. The couple have a cat, and if a prospective swapper does not mention the feline, they are unlikely to proceed. “They’re treating it a bit more like a hotel,” she warns.
Many swappers arrange video calls to build rapport. Cery advises: “Have the family show you around using the phone. Building that connection and friendship is really important.” Leave guests a list of local restaurants and instructions for appliances, heating, and alarms. Clear wardrobe and fridge space, and lock away valuables. Notify your home insurer, as most policies do not cover damage by guests; the swapping site may offer some cover.
When staying in someone else’s home, check your travel insurance for accidental damage cover. The consumer group Which? notes that personal liability can be used if you must pay compensation, but exclusions apply, such as if the property owner is a family member.
