Top 10 Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Perfect Exchange
Home exchange is an exciting way to travel the world while feeling at home – literally. Whether you’re swapping apartments in Paris for a cabin in Canada or trading your suburban house for a city loft, a well-prepared home can make all the difference. After 15 years of working with hosts and travelers in the home-sharing space, I’ve compiled the ultimate checklist to ensure your guests feel welcome, safe, and eager to return the favor. Here are the top 10 tips to prepare your home for a perfect exchange.
- Deep Clean Like a Pro
First impressions matter. A sparkling clean home not only shows you care, but it also sets a positive tone for your guests. Go beyond your regular routine – think spring cleaning level. Clean behind appliances, wipe down baseboards, and shampoo carpets if needed. Bathrooms and kitchens should be spotless. Don’t forget to air out the rooms and add fresh linens. - Declutter Without Making It Sterile
Guests want to feel like they’re in a lived-in, cozy space – not a museum. However, excessive clutter can feel overwhelming and unhygienic. Store personal items like paperwork, clothes, or valuables, and leave out a curated selection of books, plants, or decorative items. This helps maintain a homely feel without compromising cleanliness. - Stock the Essentials
Make it easy for your guests to settle in. Ensure basic supplies like toilet paper, paper towels, soap, shampoo, and cleaning products are stocked. In the kitchen, leave staples like cooking oil, salt, pepper, coffee, and tea. A bottle of wine or a few snacks can also go a long way in saying, “Welcome.” - Leave a House Manual
Think of your home as a mini hotel – and you’re the concierge. A printed (or digital) house manual with Wi-Fi info, appliance instructions, emergency contacts, nearby shops, favorite local spots, and transportation tips is invaluable. Be sure to include any quirks of the home, like a tricky lock or a finicky shower knob. - Secure Your Valuables
While home exchanges are built on trust, it’s smart to store away irreplaceable or expensive items. Use a locked cabinet or a designated locked room. If you’re concerned about digital security, log out of personal accounts on smart TVs or computers, and disable auto-login features. - Safety First
Ensure all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are working. Provide a fire extinguisher and a first-aid kit. Walk through your home as if you were a first-time guest – look for tripping hazards, loose cords, or anything potentially dangerous. If you have pets, inform your guests and provide clear care instructions, or relocate them during the stay. - Organize Like You’re Airbnb’s Top Host
Organize your closets, kitchen cabinets, and bathroom drawers with guests in mind. Label items or areas if necessary. Empty a few drawers and provide closet space with hangers. If guests will be cooking, leave cookware and utensils easily accessible. A tidy, well-organized home removes friction and enhances the experience. - Add Thoughtful Touches
What makes a place feel like home are the little details. Fresh flowers, a handwritten welcome note, a list of favorite restaurants or events during their stay – these touches show that you care. Consider leaving a guestbook where visitors can share their experience and leave tips for future guests. - Check the Climate
Make sure your home is season-ready. In winter, stock extra blankets and check the heating system. In summer, ensure fans or air conditioning work properly. Inform guests how to operate thermostats or heating/cooling units. A comfortable environment is key to a great stay. - Do a Final Walkthrough
A day before the exchange, walk through your home as if you were the guest. Test the lights, water pressure, locks, and appliances. Make sure the garbage is emptied, and the fridge is clean. If possible, ask a friend or neighbor to do a quick check with fresh eyes – they might spot something you’ve missed.
Home exchange isn’t just about swapping spaces – it’s about sharing experiences and trust. With preparation, communication, and a touch of hospitality, you can create a memorable stay that encourages guests to treat your home with the same care and love you’ve shown them.
Happy swapping!
