Dreaming of spending a few months abroad or in a different region? Why not try a long-term home exchange? It’s an affordable, authentic, and friendly way to experience life somewhere new: whether for a month, a season, or even longer. Here are a few tips to help you plan your adventure.
Why Choose a Long-Term Home Exchange?
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Budget-friendly: Save on accommodation costs and spend more on local experiences.
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Convenient: Enjoy the comfort of a real home, with everything you need and the freedom to live at your own pace.
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Authentic: Living like a local lets you truly get to know the area, away from the usual tourist spots.
5 Tips to Successfully Plan Your Long-Term Home Exchange
1. Update Your Listing
Before reaching out to other members, make sure to update your home listing:
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Mention that you’re looking for a long-term exchange (1 month, 3 months, etc.).
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Add your preferred dates and destinations.
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Be flexible — it can open up more opportunities!
2. Make the Most of the Platform Tools
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Use search filters to narrow down your criteria (home type, amenities, etc.).
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Save your favourite homes so you can easily find them later.
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Visit our official Facebook groups and share your post there.
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Join the “Long-term exchangers” group: it’s full of members interested in longer stays!
Tip: use the “groups” filter in your search so other members looking in your area can also find you.
3. Communicate Clearly to Finalise the Exchange
Good communication is the key to a smooth exchange:
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Discuss every detail (dates, house rules, transportation, etc.).
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If you’re hosting, appoint a local contact person in case of any small issues while you’re away.
4. Plan Ahead Before You Leave
Good organisation before departure makes everything easier:
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Take care of mail, bills, and travel documents.
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Check if a visa is needed and apply early if so.
5. Stay in Touch During the Exchange
Keep communication open with your exchange partner:
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Send a quick update now and then, especially if you’re looking after pets.
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Respect your commitments: tidy up before leaving and return the keys as agreed.
Following these tips will help you enjoy a truly unique experience: living like a local, discovering a new culture, and saving significantly on travel costs.
Bonus: The longest home exchange ever on HomeExchange lasted… 336 days! So, why not give it a try yourself? 
Have questions or tips to share? Drop them in the comments below — happy planning and safe travels! 