Seasonal Home Exchange

Courtesy of Nicole Feist, author of Home Exchange Travels

Each new season brings its own exciting home exchange opportunities, especially for swappers. Winter doesn't officially begin until the solstice on December 20 or 21 each year. Here in the Northeast the wind is blowing and it's hard to tell that it's still technically Autumn.

When you see the first snowflakes falling in December or the tulips rising from the earth in Spring, think of your home exchange listing. Changing it to reflect the new time of year will net you more swap offers.

PICTURE YOUR HOLIDAY

How can you seasonally adjust your listing? First, turn to your listing photos. Possible swap partners need to picture themselves in your home. For a winter holiday home exchange let them see your house looking cozy with a fire lit in the fireplace or surrounded by a blanket of snow.

Fancy a summer vacation? Your home's best view will include the dock if you are near water, a pool if you have one or just your patio for relaxing in the breeze.

CHANGE YOUR MAIN PHOTO

The most important photo on your listing page is the main one. That is the picture that comes up when people glance at the listing summary. Have a minimum of a winter photo and a summer photo as your main picture and alternate them with the seasons.

ACCESSORIZE

Another way to attract swap partners is to show season gear that can be included in an exchange with you. Don't hide that kayak, toboggan or tandem bicycle in the shed. Pull it out for a jaunty shot of your kids happily sledding in your back yard, or the whole family ready to take a bike ride together.

Seasonally adjusting your listing photos makes it easier for possible exchange partners to see themselves in your home. When swappers see the seasonal fun available at your place the offers will roll in!