Swap houses with a stranger and learn how locals live

Picture yourself on your dream vacation in Tuscany. Your lodging is a small house on a hillside surrounded by flowers. All around are rolling hills of grapevines with a castle or two scattered off in the distance. The price of your lodging is even more amazing than the views – Free!

House swapping: What's it all about?

House swapping or home exchange is when two families in different parts of the country or world agree to trade homes for a vacation. Frequently, use of the family car goes along with the swap.

Location-Location-Location

Home exchanges are popular worldwide, especially in large cities like New York, London, and Paris. Don't be discouraged, however, if you live in a small town. Visitors are also interested in quiet, restful vacations where they can live like a local. The trick is selling the qualities of your small town and its surrounding areas.

Advantages of home exchanges

• Money saved on lodging enables longer stays or more traveling
• Peace of mind of someone watching your home 
• A built in pet sitter while you're away
• Houseplants will be cared for
• Possible use of a car
• Experiencing a different culture as a local 
• Additional savings by "cooking in"
• More space than a hotel room
• New relationships with other homeowners

Disadvantages of home exchanges

• Placing trust in a complete stranger
• Accidental breakages may occur
• Curious guests may snoop around your home
• Coordinating vacation dates may be challenging
• Last minute cancellations are difficult

Next page: How to get started on your house swap!