SWAPPING SAFEGUARDS

According to the Digsville Home Exchange Club, a poll of more than 1,000 house swappers found no reports of theft. Remember: swappers will likely treat your home as they want theirs to be treated. Nonetheless, there are steps swappers take to put their minds at ease:

• Put every detail of the swap in a contract signed by both parties. Many agencies provide sample contracts that you can use.
• Check your insurance policy to be sure you understand what coverage applies during a swap.
• Lock away heirlooms and valuables.
• Ask neighbors to keep an eye on the house.

HOW TO ARRANGE AN EXCHANGE

House swappers typically pay agencies to list their homes and allow them access to others' listings. When they spot a home they like, they contact its owner to discuss a possible trade. Here are three exchange services that earn high marks from their users.

Digsville Home Exchange Club -- Detailed listings with information on everything from the owner's housekeeping style to area sights ($45 per year; digsville.com; 877-795-1019).

HomeExchange.com -- More than 13,000 listings in 110 countries, including 5,500 U.S. homes covering every state ($60 per year; homeexchange.com; 800-877-8723).

HomeLink USA -- A home-swapping institution for more than 50 years, with regional offices all over the world ($90 per year; homelink-usa.com; 800-638-3841).

IS YOUR HOME SWAP-WORTHY?

Even if your town isn't a tourism hot spot, there may be folks who would love to spend some time there. Consider the appeal of nearby attractions, such as museums, sports venues, state parks, and historical sites. Don't forget about seasonal activities (think Fourth of July fireworks or spectacular fall foliage). It may be that something entirely unexpected appeals to potential swappers, such as the fact that you live near their alma mater or a relative.