So how does this Home Exchange thing work?

Concept

Basically this Home Exchange Website is just a large bulletin board where you can post your vacation desires for anyone all over the world – let me repeat that  – ALL OVER THE WORLD – to view and consider in confidentiality.  This is where you let others know where you would like to go, for how long, what time of year, etc.  You are trying to let other like minded individuals have a look at your home and your requirements for a home exchange.  If you are a subscribed member of Home A Loan, you will be able to send another member an e-mail and propose a home exchange.  Once you find someone who wants to exchange, it is up to you as to inclusions (cars, etc) or restrictions of the exchange.  We recommend that you join several Home Exchange websites as the cost is very minimal and it increases your options and opportunities for an exchange.

Video Requirement

Some people do not feel comfortable having a “stranger” use their home.  We hope to take that fear away with the use of a short video provided by your guest/host.  The video does not need to be long or too encompassing.  We just ask you to say “Hi, this is Jack Slick and my wife Joan Slick and this is a quick shot of my home.  It’s amazing how a quick 15 second video can give one a feel for their guest/host and calm their fears.  Many of the small digital cameras have the feature which is very easy to use.  Also, many of the camera phones can be used to make a video.  You don’t need to spend a fortune on a video camera – just borrow a friend’s camera, if you don’t have one.

Why join HomeALoan.Org

HomeALoan.Org is unique in that it is the only Home Exchange Website that requires a video of the hosts.  We feel it is a huge advantage to the member to “see and hear” their hosts/guests before any phone call is even initiated.  Since HomeALoan.Org is a new website, our membership is currently very small.  We feel membership will grow quickly with the ease of use, video requirement and our current low price ($19.99).  Since we have a “Featured” homes page which is a random selection page, your home will be “showcased” even more because of a small data base.  In addition to the above, we give the member an opportunity to show 10 pictures of the home/area.  This allows a real sales job for a prospective home exchange.  We already have several Website updates in mind, we plan to improve the website constantly with new ideas and as new technologies become available.  So come on board and see how exciting a home exchange can be.  This is a close to a free lunch as you are going to get.

For Every Home

Keep in mind that this is for “EVERYONE” who owns a home, not just for 40 room mansions.  The exchange program works for those who have the “big” house but it certainly works for those who have a modest home or apartment, also.  If you have a mansion you will probably expect to exchange for another mansion.  The same is true for small modest homes. Lots of people want to travel and still have a home away from home.  Let’s be honest, you really can’t expect to trade your 1 bedroom bungalow for an estate located on 100 acres.  It is possible depending on the circumstances, but in most cases – that’s just not going to happen.  Still, it would be very nice to exchange your 1 bedroom for someone else’s 1 bedroom and not have the hassle and expense of a motel room plus you would receive all of the other benefits of a home exchange.

Time frame

Most of the time a person should start on his search well in advance of the time of the vacation.  Sometimes an exchange can occur quickly but we would suggest that you start planning and sending requests for an exchange at least 8-9 months in advance.

Advantages of a Home Exchange

There are several advantages to a home exchange arrangement as opposed to spending your vacation in a motel.  The first and most obvious is the lack of a motel/hotel bill.  In addition to that you will have a comfortable home with salt and pepper and all of the other amenities.  No longer will you be camped out on a motel bed watching TV.  Now you will have a home comparable to your own to use for your vacation with a TV probably a stereo and maybe a deck or patio to relax on.  Oftentimes, the trade will include things such as bicycles, cars, and even Country Club passes. If you want to cook, the facilities will be there.  If you do not wish to cook, there is always the money saved on lodging to go out for dinner.  In addition to the above, many times you will get to meet your host in person and make some new friends.  Your hosts will be able to tell you about the little things that can make a town so special.  Such as the hidden bakeries, wine shops or coffee shops that tourists never find –the gourmet restaurant down the alley that doesn’t advertise. Your host will give you an “in” that is really hard to put a price on.  You will also have someone there to water the plants, feed the cats and look after your home.  In addition to that, you will get to meet some great people.

Disadvantages

Some people are uncomfortable with a stranger in their home.  This is understandable but the “stranger” can be and most of the time will be minimized after several telephone conversations and the swapping of pictures and or videos.  That is one of the main reasons that Home A Loan.org requires a video of the hosts.  Remember, all you are looking for is a nice vacation and so is the “stranger”  Another disadvantage is your need to keep your home in good condition.  Wait a minute, is that an disadvantage or an advantage??

Preparation for the exchange

Once there is an agreement for the exchange, most people have several telephone conversations to keep in touch until vacation time.  These conversations will give each party an idea as to the others interests and activities.  Before your guests arrive, it is a good idea to prepare a “visitor’s guide” for them.  It doesn’t need to be fancy, but a folder with area maps, your favorite restaurant menus, some tips as to where to go related to their interests is very helpful and appreciated.  Your Chamber of Commerce and the state travel department are usually a big help.