CHECKING IN AFTER YOUR SWAP

When I stepped off the airplane after our Panama Canal cruise, my phone downloaded hundreds of emails. We didn't have reception on the ship. The last time I traveled outside the US my phone company charged me $3 for each email my phone received. I can think of better things to spend $1000 on than email, so I took an electronic sabbath, except for one day when I chanced upon internet stations in the local supermarket.

One of the messages I received was from the swapper who had used our home while we were gone. Here is what she said (identifying details have been edited to preserve her privacy):

"Hi Nicole,

I'm guessing you're back on solid ground. I'm sure you'll find you home in order, we [treaded] quite lightly, didn't have any company (can't get the family to cross 5th), and we didn't cook - lunches out, Whole Foods take out for dinner when we were too pooped to stay out any longer.

I called the cat sitter, she thought your friend was coming on sunday, i hope that all worked out, that's about it. If the t-shirts don't fit the kids they can be returned when you come here.

thanks again for the house -

For sure our house will be available on Columbus weekend - we go away with the family.

we usually leave early Friday morning and back Sunday night -

the house will also be free some time in August not sure of the specific dates.

Let's talk soon,"

This is a perfect follow up note from an exchanger who has used your home. She lets us know she enjoyed the swap, confirms that there were no problems on her end, checks in that we were pleased with how she left our home, suggests future swap options and keeps the lines of communication open.

When a swap is over it is equally appropriate for either party to contact the other first, even if it is a non-simultaneous exchange. The message above sets the right tone for contacting one's hosts. A host might write to thank the swap family for taking care of her home and/or pets, check in to make sure they had a good visit and thank them for the use of their home. The key is communication. At least one half of the swap should write an email or call the other within 24 hours of completing the exchange.

Of course you have already left a thank you note in the exchangers' home, but that is not enough. A quick email gives reinforces your appreciation for the use of the swappers' home. More importantly, it gives your exchange partners an opportunity to let you know if they found anything amiss when they returned. That gives you the opportunity to resolve any issues before they turn into resentments.

Post-swap communication is a crucial last step. End your home exchange on the right note -- a thank-you note, that is.

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