How does a home exchange work?
With a home exchange, residents exchange their houses or apartments for a certain period of time in order to go on vacation in the other location. There are internet platforms that can be used to organize this. The best known include Home Exchange, Home Link and Intervac. Although there are hardly any differences, it is still advisable to compare the conditions. First you have to register, then you can place an ad for your own house or apartment. Then you look for a property where you want to go on holiday – and contact the owner. If the dates match, an exchange contract is signed. Then it can go.
Can you do a home exchange as a tenant?
In principle, rental properties are also suitable for a home exchange. However, this should be agreed in advance with the landlord.
How much does a home exchange cost?
The home exchange itself is free. However, the majority of platforms require an annual membership fee, which is usually between 100 and 150 euros. In return, you can swap apartments as often as you like for twelve months.
How do you know if you can trust the exchange partner?
Here it is advisable to pay attention to references: If someone has already swapped several times and received positive reviews for it, it can be assumed that the person has no criminal intentions. You can also contact the exchange partners in advance. But: “Of course, you can’t really ensure that no bullies come,” clarifies travel law attorney Paul Degott.
What should you pay attention to before exchanging your home in order to protect yourself as best as possible?
On the one hand, an exchange contract should be signed, which sets out the conditions for the exchange in writing. Sample contracts can be found on most platforms. This includes, for example, terms of use, handing over the keys or who pays for electricity and water. According to travel law expert Paul Degott, it should also be stated how many people are coming and who they can contact on site. According to him, it is also advisable to check with your home insurance before you leave. Home exchange platforms recommend that you also take out liability insurance. “It can also happen that the dog jumps into the glass case and the valuable china is broken.”