10 Tips
How do I prepare my home for home exchange guests?
1. Honesty
Describe your home honestly on your web page and in all correspondence.
2. Cleanliness
Leave your home clean and comfortable. Ensure that floors are cleaned; the fridge is emptied; kitchen is grease-free; bathrooms and showers are sparkling; windows are cleaned inside and out - aim for a de-clutter and spring clean, rather than redecoration!
3. Make Space
Clear enough personal belongings to leave space in wardrobes and drawers so that your guests can unpack and make themselves at home. Space in the bathroom, kitchen and a shelf in the (newly defrosted!) freezer will be appreciated.
4. Beds
Leave beds made up for all guests with at least one set of clean linen per bed and spare towels for each guest.
5. House Book
Compile a 'House Book'. This should include local tourist information, instructions for household and electrical appliances, pet and plant care, details of rubbish collection, etc. Phone numbers of a recommended doctor, dentist, babysitter, good restaurants and helpful friends are always welcome too.
6. Agreement Form
Use the online Home and Car Exchange Agreement forms to confirm the arrangements and avoid any misunderstandings. Also clarify any special requirements you may have eg pet or garden care.
7. Welcome
If you cannot meet your exchange partners, try and arrange for a family member, neighbour or friend to pop in to welcome your exchange partners when they arrive. If they can't be there on arrival, it's helpful if you can offer them a local contact for any queries.
8. Food
Leave the makings of a first meal. Nothing fancy, but your exchange guests may well prefer to eat in rather than go out for dinner or to find a supermarket on their first evening.
9. A Small Gift
It has become a HomeLink tradition to leave a small welcome gift such as a bottle of wine or a local speciality and perhaps a little something for any children.
10. Enjoy!
Close the door, turn the key, and go off on holiday knowing that your home is in the good hands of another HomeLink member.
