Frequently Asked Questions

Home swapping is a unique form of travel accommodation where individuals or families exchange their homes with one another for a specified period. It offers a cost-effective and immersive way to experience new destinations while eliminating the need for traditional accommodation expenses. During a home swap, homeowners (or "hosts") stay in the swapper's property while the other party stays in their home. This arrangement allows both parties to enjoy the comforts and amenities of a real home, including access to a fully equipped kitchen, living spaces, and local neighborhoods. Home swapping provides an opportunity to explore different cultures, live like a local, and create lasting connections with fellow travelers.

Swaphouse is an online platform tailored for remote workers and digital nomads seeking work-from-home opportunities in new locations. By facilitating home swaps, Swaphouse allows users to exchange their homes with others, providing an affordable alternative to traditional accommodations like Airbnb and Booking.com. The platform focuses on homes equipped with essential amenities for remote work, such as fast Wi-Fi and dedicated workspaces. This approach enables users to embark on "workations", exploring different destinations while enjoying the comforts and functionality of a remote work environment without the financial burden of expensive accommodations.

Swaphouse connects homeowners to “swap” their homes in a 1-for-1 exchange, without paying one another. You can start your home swapping adventure in 4 easy steps: #1 Join Swaphouse Create an account and list your own home. Simply add details such as your home location, amenities, home office offerings (Wi-Fi speed, monitor, desk and chair type) and of course some photos. #2 Start exploring Once your home listing is created, you can access the "Explore" section to discover all available homes. If you see a home you’d like to stay in, hit the "heart" button. #3 Collect matches If the owners of the homes you liked also liked your home, then you have a "match"! You can then start chatting with each other to see if there's a fit and discuss travel plans. #4 Connect & plan Consider scheduling a video call with your match to build trust. If your plans line up and you feel comfortable opening your home to your match, then book that trip! ✈️

Yep! Swaphouse is completely free to use. Unlike other home swapping platforms, we don't have any mandatory memberships to swap homes. We, Kat & Tobi, the founders of Swaphouse, discovered the incredible potential for saving thousands of euros on travel accommodation by exchanging our own home a few times a year. We decided to reinvest those savings into covering the operational costs of running the Swaphouse platform, such as hosting, domain, and social media advertising. Our mission is to make home swapping accessible and affordable for everyone, allowing you to explore the world without straining your budget, just as we do.

Swaphouse welcomes anyone who owns a home eligible for swapping to join our platform. Whether you're a remote worker or from any employment background, you can enjoy the benefits of home swapping. However, it's important to ensure that you have the necessary permissions and agreements in place. If you own a home, please check with your home association, mortgage provider, insurance provider(s) and relevant local authorities to ensure that home swapping is permitted and doesn't violate any agreements. It's crucial to comply with any rules or restrictions set by these entities. Besides that, for renters it's essential to consult your landlord and review your rental agreement. Seek their permission and verify if home swapping is allowed according to the terms of your lease. We recommend to receive your landlord's consent to avoid any conflicts or breaches of your rental agreement. Please be aware that Swaphouse cannot assume liability in these matters. It remains your responsibility to confirm and adhere to any (local) rules, restrictions, or agreements imposed by relevant parties. Take the necessary steps to ensure that you are compliant and can enjoy a secure and smooth home swapping experience.

Yes, to create a Swaphouse account, we require you to sign up using your LinkedIn account. By doing so, we can automatically collect your name, email address, and profile picture from your LinkedIn profile to set up your Swaphouse account. This not only saves you time but also eliminates the need to remember and manage an additional password. You can simply log in to your Swaphouse account using your LinkedIn credentials.

Yes, you can join Swaphouse if you have a rental home. However, we strongly recommend obtaining permission from your landlord before listing your rental property on the platform. As a rental tenant, it is your responsibility to review your rental contract and determine if any notifications or approvals are required. Swaphouse cannot be held accountable if you invite guests without adhering to the terms of your rental agreement. It is always best to communicate with your landlord beforehand to ensure compliance and avoid any potential issues.

To maximize your chances of attracting potential swappers, it is crucial to provide detailed and accurate information when listing your home on Swaphouse. We have simplified the listing process into four easy steps to assist you: 1. Home location: Specify the location of your home, including city, neighborhood, and any nearby attractions or landmarks. 2. Home details: Provide comprehensive information about your home, including the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, amenities, and any special features. 3. Work from home amenities: Highlight any amenities or facilities that make your home suitable for remote work, such as details of your dedicated workspace(s) and Wi-Fi-speed 4. Photos: Upload high-quality photos that showcase the different areas of your home, allowing potential swappers to visualize the space. Read our blog article with tried-and-true tips to put your home in the best light. By following these four steps, you can create an appealing and informative listing that captures the attention of potential swappers on Swaphouse.

Once you've listed your home on Swaphouse, you've completed the first step of the home swapping adventure! After we reviewed your home, your home will be visible to other Swaphouse users who are looking for potential swaps. Make sure your listing is detailed and includes high-quality photos to attract potential swappers. While you're on the platform, you can explore other homes and "heart" homes you like. If someone likes your home and you like theirs, that's a "match". You can now initiate a conversation to discuss the swap details, travel plans, and build trust.

Exploring other homes on Swaphouse is simple. Once your home listing is created, navigate to the "Explore" section of the platform. Here, you'll discover a wide range of homes available for swapping. Browse through the listings, paying attention to the details provided, such as location, amenities, and work-from-home offerings. If you come across a home that catches your eye and meets your requirements, you can express your interest by hitting the "heart" button. This action indicates that you'd like to potentially swap homes with that user. Remember, finding a match requires mutual interest, so if the homeowner of the property you liked also likes your home, you'll have a "match".

When you "heart" or like a home on Swaphouse, you're expressing interest in swapping homes with that particular home. If the owner of that home also likes your property, it creates a "match", which means both parties have mutual interest in swapping homes. Once matched, you can start chatting with the other homeowner through the platform's messaging feature to discuss the details of the swap, travel plans, and any other related matters.

Once you get a "match", it means the owner of the home you liked also has expressed interest in your home. You can find their name and home in your "Matches" overview. From there, you can initiate a conversation with them using our "Messages" feature where you send chat messages. Utilize this opportunity to get to know each other, discuss expectations, and ensure compatibility for the swap. During your conversation, it's important to prioritize safety and establish trust. Consider asking questions about their home, their travel experience, and any specific concerns or requests you may have. You can also discuss safety measures, such as providing identification and proof of home ownership, to ensure a secure exchange. It's recommended to maintain open and clear communication throughout the process, addressing any doubts or questions you may have. By actively engaging in conversation, you can build trust and confidence before exchanging homes. Remember, it's essential to exercise your own judgment and take necessary precautions for a successful and enjoyable experience. In the end it's up to you to decide to book a home swap (or not).

During your initial conversation with a (new) match, it is important to discuss various aspects to ensure a successful home swap. Here are some key topics to cover: 1. Introduction: Take the opportunity to introduce yourself and your family. Share basic information about your background, interests, and any specific requirements or preferences you may have. 2. Home details: Discuss the details of your respective homes, including the number of bedrooms, amenities, and any unique features. Ensure you have a clear understanding of what each home offers. 3. Availability and dates: Confirm the availability of your homes for the desired travel period. Discuss potential dates and any flexibility you have. Ensure there is a mutual understanding of the duration of the swap. 4. Expectations: Discuss your expectations for the home swap experience. Clarify rules, preferences, and any specific requirements you may have, such as pet care, maintenance responsibilities, or housekeeping arrangements. 5. Communication and Logistics: Determine the preferred mode of communication during the swap, whether it's through the Swaphouse platform, email, or phone calls. Discuss logistics, such as key exchange, arrival and departure procedures, and any necessary instructions for managing the homes. 6. Local Information and Recommendations: Share local insights and recommendations about your respective areas. This could include nearby attractions, restaurants, transportation options, or any other information that might enhance the experience for the visiting party. 7. Safety and Security: Address any concerns or questions related to safety and security. Discuss measures you both can take to ensure a secure exchange, such as verifying identities, sharing emergency contact information, or discussing home security arrangements. Remember, open and honest communication is essential to establish trust and mutual understanding. Use this initial conversation as an opportunity to get to know each other better and align expectations for a successful and enjoyable home swap.

Of course! Before finalizing a home swap, it is highly recommended to schedule a video call or virtual tour with your match(es). This enables you to have a better understanding of their home, ask questions, and establish a personal connection. To learn more about how to have a successful home swap conversation, we have a blog post with helpful tips and advice.

At Swaphouse, we prioritize the safety and security of our users. While we strive to create a trustworthy community, it's important to know that Swaphouse does not verify user accounts, profiles, or listings. Therefore, ensuring your safety ultimately lies in your own hands. To feel more secure during the swapping process, we encourage you to establish a strong connection with potential swappers. Take the time to communicate with with each other, discuss expectations, and have video calls to get to know each other better. It can also be beneficial to request for example government identification and proof of home ownership for added confidence. It's crucial to exercise caution and trust your instincts. If you have any doubts or concerns about a potential swap, it's best to err on the side of caution and explore other matches. Your safety is of paramount importance to us, and we want you to have a positive and secure experience on Swaphouse. For extra peace of mind, Swaphouse offers an optional Damage Protection Plan through our partner, Superhog. For a maximum cost of $25 per home swap, Superhog’s Damage Protection Plan protects you from $500 to $5,000,000. Plus, this plan includes guest screening to minimize the risk of hosting problematic guests. For complete details and important disclaimers, please visit our Damage Protection page.

At Swaphouse, we do not currently provide insurance coverage. Therefore, we recommend checking with your home insurance provider to understand the extent of your existing coverage. It is the responsibility of Swaphouse members to arrange their own insurance coverage for liability, home, contents, and travel. When discussing insurance with providers, it's important to clarify that home swapping is not a commercial transaction but rather similar to having a friend stay over. Some countries offer short-term rental insurance policies that may cover guests staying in your home if your regular policy does not. To protect for example against potential damage in someone else's home, we strongly recommend having liability insurance. Many insurance policies cover such scenarios, but it is essential to check with your existing or new insurance provider to ensure you have appropriate coverage before engaging in a home swap. Please note that obtaining insurance coverage may result in an increase in your monthly premium or affect the coverage terms. Additionally, some insurance policies may have limitations on the number of weeks or months per year that you can engage in home exchanges while remaining covered. It is crucial to review your insurance policy and consult with your insurance provider to understand the specific coverage details and any additional insurance requirements for home swapping. This ensures you have the necessary protection and peace of mind throughout the home swap experience.

Ensuring the safety of your home during a swap is essential. Here are some steps you can take to enhance security: 1. Communication and verification: Maintain open and thorough communication with your match(es). Get to know them, exchange information, and verify their identity. Establishing trust is crucial for a successful swap. 2. Clear expectations: Discuss rules and expectations for the care of each other's homes. Clarify guidelines regarding pets, smoking, housekeeping, and any other important considerations. Having mutual understanding and respect is key. 3. Security measures: Prioritize home security by ensuring all doors, windows, and locks are in good working condition. Consider installing security systems or utilizing smart home technology for added protection. 4. Valuables and personal belongings: Secure or remove valuable items and personal belongings that you consider sensitive or irreplaceable. This provides an extra layer of protection and peace of mind. 5. Insurance coverage: Review your existing (home/contents/travel/liability) insurance policy to understand the coverage during a home swap. Consider contacting your insurance provider to discuss any necessary adjustments or additional coverage required. 6. Damage Protection: For extra peace of mind, Swaphouse offers an optional Damage Protection Plan through our partner, Superhog. For a maximum cost of $25 per home swap, Superhog’s Damage Protection Plan protects you from $500 to $5,000,000. Plus, this plan includes guest screening to minimize the risk of hosting problematic guests. For complete details and important disclaimers, please visit our Damage Protection page. 7. Emergency contacts: Share emergency contact information with your match, including local authorities, neighbors, or a trusted person who can assist in case of any unforeseen circumstances. 8. Documentation and inventory: Take photos or create an inventory of your home's condition before the swap. This documentation can be useful in case of any disputes or damages. Remember, while Swaphouse endeavors to create a safe community, it is important to exercise caution, use your best judgment, and take necessary precautions to ensure the security of your home during a swap.

If you have a Swaphouse account, you have direct access to Swaphouse Support via our chat, where you can raise any questions or concerns you may have. Simply log in to your account, go to Messages and reach out to 'Swaphouse Support' for assistance. If you don't have a Swaphouse account, you can still contact us. You can email us at [email protected] or send us a direct message (DM) via Instagram or Facebook. We are here to help and provide the guidance you need to make the most of your Swaphouse experience.

We have a dedicated blog where you can find valuable resources, tips, and information to maximize the benefits of home swapping. Visit our blog to read articles on topics such as working remotely and making the most of your home swap experience. Additionally, we encourage you to follow Swaphouse on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and/or Twitter to stay updated with the latest tips, insights, and community stories.

We greatly appreciate your feedback and suggestions to help us improve the Swaphouse platform. We are dedicated to creating a user-friendly platform that meets your needs. If you have any feedback or suggestions, we encourage you to reach out to us via chat, email, or through our social media channels. We value your input and look forward to hearing from you as we work together to enhance your home swapping experience.