If you were wondering how to fit a vacation into your tight budget these days, with the cost of gas being what it is, a house exchange is both convenient and offers big savings. Not only does your lodging, which usually is the major expense, gets taken care of, you can also save money by cooking some of your meals at home. If you are lucky your transportation may also be arranged as many people also include their cars in the exchange.All this will save you enough money for the occasional holiday splurge as well.You also don't have to fret about who will take care of your pet or water your plants while you are away. If your house is occupied it also discourages burglars.
Since the internet came along, exchanges have become easier to arrange and you have a much wider choice. You are able to view the exchange properties online and can be reasonably certain of the deal you are getting into. Nonetheless it does require a certain amount of flexibility and you need to do your homework.
To start with, if you are a family person it is better to get in touch with another family. You understand each others needs. Check with your insurers before you leave. You must find out whether you are still covered if someone else is living in your house or using your car, just in case something goes amiss. Leave behind a list of things to do for running the house, as well as the local attractions. People who wish to exchange should highlight the features of their homes online as well as list out local places of interest. It is a good idea to photograph each room and post them on the home exchange listing.
The downside of such arrangements is that you need to be flexible about timing as well as location. You may either not get an exchange in an area of your choice when you want it , or both. Once you are working out the details with a potential exchanger it always helps to clarify things such as whether he smokes or whether he would be able to look after your pet or not while you are away.You will also have to put in extra work cleaning your house, getting it ready for visitors. Be prepared to find minor accidents and damage when you return. They would have happened anyway even while you were living there.
There are a large number of websites where you can get relevant information. Membership of these exchanges is reasonably priced and an extensive choice is available, from weekend exchanges to long term exchanges and other arrangements.