My HomeExchange story: Overcoming home swapping host worries

Will they like my home? Will they take good care of it? Will I return to my home just as I found it? Can I do a car exchange?

These are just some of the questions first-time home swap hosts have before their guests arrive. It can be nerve-wracking to welcome people into your home and trust them with your possessions.

Charles, a HomeExchange member, had those same questions before his first home exchange as a host. However, he quickly discovered that this way of traveling saves money, is a great way to meet wonderful people, and is built on mutual trust and respect. Charles answered some of our questions about his home swap host experience.

What were some of your biggest fears when hosting another member?

Would they clean up after themselves? Would my house plants survive? Would they find the experience they wanted while staying in my home?

How did you overcome this fear?

Stayed in the clean home of a fellow Home Exchange member. Left my home clean, tidy and ready for my guests. Gained confidence through several exchanges.

Tell us about a memorable experience with a guest.

My first exchange included a car exchange. While completely not necessary, car exchange saved us both money and the hassle of renting and returning a rental car. Since both of our cars were of moderate value, there was little fear and little risk.

What do you like most about hosting other members?

Knowing they'll love my home. Knowing they'll like my town. Knowing they'll have a good stay in Western North Carolina.

How do you prepare your home for your guests?

Clean and ready the home. Disinfect potential COVID surfaces. Provide local suggestions of things to do and see, places to eat, drink and shop. Make myself available if and when my guests have questions.