Cancelling should be your very last resort. Exchanges often involve flights, car rentals, and special plans, so a cancellation can significantly impact your exchange partner. If an unavoidable situation arises (such as illness, family emergency, or unexpected home repairs), let your partner know immediately. Explain the circumstances honestly, apologize sincerely, and offer any help you can — for example, recommending a friend’s home nearby or adjusting to new dates if possible. The sooner you communicate, the easier it is for everyone to make alternate arrangements.

While rare, cancellations do happen. If your exchange partner must cancel, contact MHTS help as soon as possible. We’ll help by searching our member network for an alternative exchange in the same area or offering suggestions for nearby destinations. Keep in mind that having flexible travel dates or being open to different locations often increases your chances of finding a good replacement quickly. In the meantime, maintain a positive spirit — you might end up discovering an unexpected and wonderful new place.

A connection is the first step toward a possible home exchange. It means both parties have shown interest in exploring a swap but have not yet confirmed details. Think of it as a friendly handshake across the internet — you’re saying, “I like your home, let’s talk!” From there, you can exchange messages, photos, and questions to see if your homes, travel dates, and expectations are a good match.

Start with a warm, personal message. Begin by mentioning something specific you loved about their listing — maybe their garden, proximity to hiking trails, or sunny kitchen. Then introduce yourself, share a bit about your family, and outline your desired dates and number of guests. Give a short description of your own home, highlighting features that might appeal to them. For example: “We were drawn to your cozy mountain retreat — our kids love hiking and exploring nature! Our home in Florida is a 10-minute walk to the beach, has four bedrooms, and a screened-in pool perfect for relaxing.” Including thoughtful details shows you’ve read their profile carefully and are serious about the exchange.

Keep your profile and listing fresh — update photos seasonally, tweak your description to highlight new features, and make sure your travel availability is accurate. Respond to messages quickly and politely, even if you can’t accept the proposal. A quick, friendly “thank you” message encourages members to reach out again in the future. Also, use warm, inviting language in your listing that sparks curiosity and makes people imagine themselves in your home.

When creating your listing, you can upload up to 20 images in the “Upload Images” section. Because your listing is not editable once submitted, make sure your photos are exactly how you want them before submitting. Arrange them thoughtfully, with your strongest image—often the exterior or main living space—first. If you need to make changes later, you’ll need to remove your listing and create a new one with the updated photos.

Log into your account, go to “Profile”, go to Email settings, enter your new email address and save the changes.

You must be at least 18 years old to become an MHTS member. This ensures that all members can legally enter into agreements and take responsibility for their exchanges.

Yes. If you have a second home, vacation property, or even a guesthouse, you can add them under your existing account. This flexibility allows you to attract a wider variety of exchange partners, as your different properties may appeal to different travelers.

Absolutely — but first check your lease agreement for the allotted stay time of any and all houseguests, and we recommend renters insurance if you don’t already have it. When in doubt and for further questioning, contact your landlord and check with them.

We welcome a wide range — from city apartments and suburban houses to rural farmhouses and waterfront cottages. As long as your home is safe, well-maintained, and accurately represented in your listing, it’s eligible.

No — MHTS operates on a hospitality-based model, not a rental model. The only fees you may charge are actual cleaning costs at cost price. The other fee that may occasionally apply are required government tourist taxes. Cleaning fees and government tourist taxes need to be clearly stated on your home’s profile page. No nightly rates, service fees, or “per person” charges are allowed.

Yes. If you have a second home, vacation property, or even a guesthouse, you can add them under your existing account. This flexibility allows you to attract a wider variety of exchange partners, as your different properties may appeal to different travelers.

Car exchanges are allowed. We advise you confirm with your insurance provider that guests will be covered — discuss in advance who will pay for damages if there is an accident. Clearly list your vehicle’s details in your listing, along with any rules (for example, no smoking in the car or where to refuel before returning it).

Hosts should store or lock away irreplaceable valuables before guests arrive. Guests should report any damage, no matter how small, as soon as it happens. Often, small accidents can be resolved quickly and with good will when addressed honestly.

Not at all. MHTS welcomes members from all walks of life. The occasional Bible verse in our materials is there to inspire kindness, generosity, and gratitude, values we believe make exchanges richer for everyone.

Yes — many of our members homeschool and find that exchanges open unique learning opportunities for their children. Staying in a different region or country allows kids to experience new cultures, foods, and traditions firsthand, turning each trip into a living classroom.

Members save thousands in travel costs by swapping homes instead of paying for hotels or rentals. Beyond the financial benefit, you enjoy the comfort of staying in a fully equipped home and the chance to live like a local. Many members also form long-term friendships, visiting each other again or staying in touch for years. Exchanges often lead to shared meals, cultural discoveries, and new friendships.

Annual membership is $199 USD, which allows you to arrange unlimited exchanges throughout the year. There are no booking fees or hidden costs — just one flat rate that gives you access to our entire network of members worldwide. Considering that a single week in a typical vacation rental can cost several times that amount, many members find their membership “pays for itself” with their very first trip.