US House swap?

[andy_s]

I never saw the TV series, but we're planning (myself, Mrs_s and the two little _s's) a month long sejourn over to the Good ole US of A.
We're planning on stopping over for a few days in Washington and New York, but the bulk of the trip will be exploring California.

One idea mooted by my lady wife is to do a house swap - I've no idea where to start exploring this option but it does sound interesting.
We live in sunny Jockland twixt Edinburgh and Glasgow but 20 mins from Loch Lomond and all points north in a 'Postman Pat' type village.

Firstly, does anyone have any experiences (good or bad) and are there any worthy caveats to bear in mind when embarking on this plan?

Secondly, to save me trawling through the millions of possibilities, does any one know the main reputable agents that arrange such things?

Finally, anyone have any suggestions for interesting things to see/do in Californ-i-a that perhaps aren't on the typical tourist radar?

[andy_s]

What sort of mechanical Turk is Pistonheads these days - I told my lady wife I'd have all this sorted in 24hrs...

[andy_s]

Seriously - no one?

[JCW]

Andy


I've only done it exchanging holiday homes, so take the information as you wish. Some pointers...

• Get some decent quality images of your house and join one of the house exchange web sites and provide plenty of information about the house. Usually, you'll have a form field where you can make your country preferences clear. I'd also 'ham up the Scottishness' of the area as there are plenty of plastic sweaties in North America keen to get in touch with their roots.

• Don't wade in carpet bombing houses you want to stay in but spend a week or so, looking at areas and get a 'feel' for how people are marketing their properties, that way you'll not end up with a dud.

• We've been offered car swaps in the past, but personally I've stayed well clear for obvious reasons. As a PHer you'll probably not want anyone near your P&J.

• Exchange plenty of emails without stalking the other side, so you get a clear picture of their expectations and if they're potential weirdos although you'll have to make allowances for Americans as they have some unusual ideas.

As its your own house, I'd say leave it in a condition you'd want to find upon entering someone else's home i.e. tidy, clean and free from smells.