Our latest collaboration with Epic Golf Club, a premier platform that delivers exceptional golf experiences worldwide.

ThirdHome members are invited to play the world’s premier private golf courses through our new partner, Epic Golf Club. This exclusive golf society provides a platform for avid golf enthusiasts to play at some of the world’s best private golf courses together. 

Special Opportunity for Members

Enjoy 6-months free of dues with an approved Epic Golf Club Membership, which includes:

• Exclusive Access to Elite Courses: Explore some of the world’s most prestigious golf courses, from lush greens nestled in scenic landscapes to iconic championship venues.

• VIP Events and Tournaments: Enjoy VIP access to exclusive golf events, tournaments, and networking opportunities with fellow enthusiasts. Epic Golf Club sponsors around thirty golf events per year, typically at top–100 golf clubs. Each event currently attracts around 80-100 Epic members.

• Powerful Networking Opportunities: Be part of an exclusive group of some of the most successful CEO’s, business owners, and professionals who all share a love for the game of golf. Powerful networking and connections can be formed.

Click here to learn more or apply for membership.

Your journey as a member, simply put, is the most luxurious and exclusive golf society experience in the world. With Epic Golf Club, the entire golf world has been unlocked. So, no more asking for favors to get on clubs or being stuck playing 5+ hour rounds on resort courses. And you’ll also receive dozens of invites to incredible events at top clubs year-round.

Redefining Travel: Unforgettable Adventures Beyond Tourist Trails

In a world where travel has become synonymous with crowded tourist spots and generic hotel rooms, the Enthusiast Hotel Collection emerges as a breath of fresh air. Nestled in some of the most awe-inspiring corners of the United States and the Caribbean, these boutique properties are not just places to stay; they are gateways to unforgettable adventures and experiences. What makes this collection truly remarkable is not just the location but the passion that fuels it – a shared love for soft adventure and the thrill of discovering oneself and the world. In an exciting partnership, the Enthusiast Hotel Collection has joined forces with THIRDHOME to elevate the concept of travel-inspired hospitality. 

Unveiling Enchantment: Exploring the Enthusiast Hotel Collection’s Unique Destinations

Let’s embark on a journey from the rugged beauty of the Mendocino Coast to the balmy rainforests of St. Lucia, exploring the six unique properties that define the Enthusiast Hotel Collection. Each place has a story to tell, a vibe to offer, and an adventure waiting to unfold. 

Brewery Gulch Inn and Spa: Overlooking the majestic Mendocino Coast of Northern California, this arts and crafts masterpiece invites guests to experience the harmony of luxury and nature. 

Historic Tapoco Lodge: Tucked away in North Carolina’s scenic Great Smoky Mountains, this lodge is a hidden gem, perfect for those seeking solace amidst nature’s embrace. 

Hartstone Inn: Anchoring the picture-perfect New England village of Camden, Maine, this architecturally splendid inn exudes charm and elegance, making every guest feel like they’ve stepped into a fairytale. 

Casa Morada: Along the prestigious Islamorada coastline in the Florida Keys, this adults-only retreat is a sub-tropical paradise, offering a sanctuary of peace and tranquility. 

A Stone’s Throw Away: Nestled in Nassau, Bahamas, this property reigns over the crystalline blue Caribbean, providing breathtaking views and a sense of regal serenity. 

Cap Cove: Situated in St. Lucia, this family-friendly haven boasts crescent-shaped coves and balmy rainforests, inviting guests to indulge in the tranquil poolside lifestyle complete with its own Tiki Bar.

 

Beyond Boundaries: The Enthusiast Hotel Collection’s Vision for a Diverse Hospitality Experience

Enthusiast Hotel Collection is not just limited to these six properties. TheIn an exciting development, the collection plans to expand into the commercial management of private estates and cottages near their hotel properties. This expansion promises an even more diverse and enriching experience for travelers who seek the extraordinary in every aspect of their journey. 

Embracing the Extraordinary: The Enthusiast Hotel Collection’s Call to Slow Travel and Genuine Connection: 

In a world that often rushes past the wonders of nature and the joys of genuine connection, the Enthusiast Hotel Collection stands as a testament to the beauty of slowing down, of savoring the moment, and of embracing the unknown. This collection promises not just a stay but an unforgettable journey, where every guest is encouraged to delight the senses, expand the imagination, and inspire adventure. If you’re yearning for a travel experience that goes beyond the ordinary, the Enthusiast Hotel Collection is your gateway to a world of enchantment and discovery. 

Buying a second home has long been recognized as a profitable venture, and one particular niche that has gained significant popularity is investing in second homes in vacation markets. From potential financial gains to personal enjoyment, in this blog post, we will delve into the top five reasons why buying in a second home in a vacation market can be a smart financial move.

Potential for Rental Income:

One of the most compelling reasons to buy a second home in a vacation market is the potential for generating rental income. By renting out your property when you are not using it, you can offset a portion, if not all, of your mortgage and other expenses. This additional income stream can significantly enhance your overall return on investment. Websites such as Mashvisor provide valuable data and insights on rental income potential, occupancy rates, and rental market trends.

Appreciation and Long-Term Investment:

Buying a second home in a vacation market can be a wise long-term investment strategy. Popular vacation destinations tend to experience consistent appreciation in property values over time. The limited supply and high demand in such markets often result in increased property prices. Reliable real estate websites like Zillow and Redfin offer comprehensive data and market analysis, allowing you to make informed decisions about potential appreciation and investment prospects.

Diversification of Assets:

Owning a second home in a vacation market adds diversification to your investment portfolio. Real estate is a tangible asset that can provide stability and act as a hedge against inflation. It can offer a counterbalance to more volatile investment options such as stocks and bonds. By investing in a different geographic location, you reduce the risk of being solely dependent on the performance of your primary residence or local real estate market.

Tax Benefits:

Buying a second home can also bring various tax advantages. Depending on your specific circumstances and the jurisdiction, you may be eligible for tax deductions on mortgage interest, property taxes, and even some expenses related to maintenance and management of the property. It is advisable to consult with a qualified tax professional or refer to reputable financial websites like Investopedia (www.investopedia.com) for accurate information on tax benefits associated with second-home investments.

Personal Enjoyment and Lifestyle Enhancement:

Beyond financial gains, owning a second home in a vacation market provides the opportunity for personal enjoyment and lifestyle enhancement. Having a place to retreat and unwind in your favorite vacation destination offers convenience, comfort, and the chance to create lasting memories with family and friends. It also provides the flexibility to escape the stresses of everyday life and immerse yourself in the beauty and leisure activities of the vacation market you choose. Joining a home exchange club like THIRDHOME can even further your enjoyment by expanding your vacation options. Unlike other home exchanges, they only allow second homes, vet all members, and also include access to resorts, private islands, and yachts.

Conclusion

Buying a second home in a vacation market can be a lucrative and rewarding endeavor. The potential for rental income, appreciation, asset diversification, tax benefits, and personal enjoyment make it an attractive option for investors seeking both financial returns and lifestyle enhancements. While travel websites can provide valuable information on vacation destinations, it is essential to consult credible investment-related sources such as Mashvisor, Zillow, Redfin, Investopedia, Bankrate, and other reputable financial platforms to make informed investment decisions. Remember to conduct thorough research, assess your financial goals, and seek professional advice when necessary before making any investment commitments.

We are thrilled to extend an exclusive members-only offer that provides the opportunity to own at HYVE, Nashville’s premier short-term rental development. 

THIRDHOME is always looking for opportunities and partnerships that will bring you the best in luxury travel or real estate investments. We are thrilled to share this new offer with HYVE and have arranged for a generous $10,000 credit towards your unit purchase, along with a complimentary one-year annual membership reimbursement toward your THIRDHOME membership.

Who is HYVE

Situated in the vibrant Pie Town neighborhood at 635 7th Avenue South, HYVE offers a limited collection of 83 exquisite units boasting great amenities such as a pool, outdoor entertainment areas, huge balconies, and captivating views of Downtown Nashville. This exclusive partnership ensures that THIRDHOME members can own a condominium that can be fully legally rented through Airbnb and professionally managed by Placemakr (optional third-party management company), so it’s a full turn-key experience.

HYVE Ownership Benefits:

• Luxury condominium in Nashville at attractive “developer pricing” 
  • $10,000 purchase credit exlusively for THIRDHOME members
• Available for immediate purchase / operation 
• Furnished / Unfurnished units available 
• Approved for placement on THIRDHOME platform (earn Keys / travel) 
• Potential for deprecation, cashflow, and long-term-appreciation 
• Access to hot Downtown Nashville hospitality market 
  (14 million + visitors per year) 

HYVE presents an array of floor plans to suit diverse preferences, ranging from elegant 1-bedroom units to expansive 3-bedroom residences. With prices starting at $595,000 and reaching up to $2,000,000, there is an option to match every discerning taste and budget. 

Prepare to be captivated by HYVE’s exceptional amenities, elevating the art of living to extraordinary heights. Residents gain exclusive access to a sparkling pool, outdoor grill, inviting cabanas, a state-of-the-art fitness center, stylish lounges, and expansive private balconies that showcase panoramic views of Downtown Nashville. The contemporary design, abundant natural light, and high-end finishes throughout the building create an ambiance of sophistication, making HYVE an unparalleled “third home”.

For more information, download the information package here.

According to a recent survey from Forbes Advisor, 2023 looks to be another strong year for travel despite inflation. Out of the 1,000 Americans surveyed, 87% plan to travel as much as they did in 2022, and 49% of respondents plan to travel more compared to the previous year.

Are you interested in taking a vacation this year? If so, you might be curious about the growing trend of house swapping. This innovative approach to travel is making it easier than ever for people to explore the world in creative and exciting ways. 

By exchanging homes with other travelers, you can experience new cultures and destinations while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a home away from home. Keep reading to discover what house swapping is and how it can benefit you.

What is House Swapping?

Many people are still unfamiliar with the concept of a house exchange, as it is a relatively new and alternative way to travel. Essentially, a home swap involves two parties temporarily exchanging homes for a set period of time, and it can occur in different ways.

One option is to stay in someone else’s home while they stay in yours simultaneously, which requires coordinating schedules. Alternatively, you can participate in a house swap and stay at another person’s home, even if they don’t stay in yours.

Furthermore, a home swap can involve either a primary or secondary home, depending on what is available and what you are comfortable sharing.

What Are the Benefits of a House Swap?

Now that you know what a home exchange is, what are its benefits? If you are going to do a house swap, you will want to understand why this is a good option.

For most people, this can be a great option if you want to enjoy your vacation. It may be more economical and realistic, depending on your circumstances.

Here are some benefits you get when doing a home exchange.

Comfort

One of the major advantages of house swapping is the unparalleled level of comfort it offers. When you stay in someone else’s home, you can relish the cozy and familiar feeling that’s often absent when you travel.

Although hotels are undoubtedly comfortable and offer a great experience, they may not always be the most ideal option. Sometimes, you and your family may crave something more personal and homey.

Through house swapping, you get to immerse yourself in a new area while staying in a comfortable home that suits your family’s needs. This can significantly enhance your overall vacation experience and alleviate some of the stress that comes with travel.

Personal Experiences

If you’re seeking a more authentic experience when traveling, traditional hotels may leave you feeling like a mere tourist, lacking the personal touch of a truly local experience. This is where house swapping comes in handy.

By exchanging homes, you gain the opportunity to experience what it’s really like to live in your destination, providing a better understanding of everyday life there. Opting for a home tucked away from the typical tourist attractions and crowded sights can grant you an inside look into an authentic neighborhood of your holiday spot.

Furthermore, you may even have the chance to receive insider knowledge and tips from the family you’re swapping homes with, allowing you to explore and discover the hidden gems that locals genuinely enjoy.

Cost Effective

Apart from the convenience and unique experience, house swapping also offers a more cost-effective alternative for those looking to travel without breaking the bank.

Let’s face it, vacationing and traveling can easily become costly, which may not be feasible for everyone. By choosing to swap houses, you can stay in desirable locations at a fraction of the cost, making it possible to explore and experience new places without major financial constraints. 

Plus, saving money on accommodations allows you to allocate your funds elsewhere, like excursions and activities.

Your Home is Upkept

When you opt for a house swap, you also benefit from the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home isn’t empty while you’re away.

Many people feel anxious about leaving their homes unoccupied for an extended period for a variety of reasons. In the winter, for example, you may be concerned about your pipes freezing or the house getting too cold.

Having another family living in your home can help keep things operating as usual, allowing you to enjoy your vacation with peace of mind.

You May Meet New Friends

During the process of a home swap, you will get to know the other family very well. After all, the two of you will be communicating often throughout the process.

Over time, you may build relationships with the other family staying in your home. This could lead to new friendships when you were strangers not too long ago.

Ultimately, you can discover the joys of meeting new people, sharing cultures, and building lasting friendships with like-minded travelers.

Things to Remember About House Swapping

It’s important to keep in mind that house swapping, like any travel option, may have its downsides. However, with proper preparation and realistic expectations, it can still be a highly rewarding experience.

To ensure a successful house swap, there are certain steps that need to be taken, such as communicating effectively with the other family, setting clear rules and expectations, and preparing your home for the exchange.

You’re Opening Your Door to Others

During a home exchange, you’ll be opening your doors to a new family or individuals you may not know personally. While this thought may initially seem off-putting, it’s important to remember that house swapping can also be a highly rewarding and enriching experience.

While there may be some uncertainty, remember that house swapping involves mutual trust and respect between families, and most participants are respectful and responsible guests. By taking proper precautions, such as setting clear guidelines and communicating effectively with your exchange partners, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved.

Above all else, it’s imperative to exchange homes through a reputable site. A site like THIRDHOME offers trustworthy home swapping that ensures safety and security because all members and their properties must undergo a series of verification steps.

Consider the State of Your Home

A successful house exchange also depends on proper preparation to ensure that your home is safe and comfortable for the visiting family.

Make sure that all appliances and amenities are working correctly and are in good condition. Ideally, you should make any necessary repairs and modifications before the other family arrives. In some situations, this can be a great way to push yourself to make those updates you have been meaning to do.

Additionally, it’s also important to take the time to give your home a thorough cleaning and remove any clutter or unnecessary items. This could include putting away valuables and hiding anything of great value. This can give you peace of mind and make the other family feel more at ease in your home.

A Guide to House Swapping

Ultimately, the key to a successful house swap is to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to embrace new experiences. With the right attitude, sharing your home can lead to some of the most memorable and rewarding travel experiences.

Are you interested in putting your house up for a house exchange? Contact us today at THIRDHOME to look into house swapping options.

Planning your dream trip? Discover THIRDHOME’s Italy travel guide inspired by the Paramount+ original series, Millionaire Holiday Home Swap.

We’re giving you the best advice on how to decide on which region(s) to explore, finding the best accommodations, tips on living like a local, and guidance on planning the perfect Italian holiday for you.

Choose between unique places to travel in Italy

When deciding which places to travel in Italy, consider the regional differences throughout the country. There are many different geographical features in Italy, including everything from picturesque mountains to stunning coastlines. As you solidify your personal Italy travel guide, here are some activities you might want to include on the itinerary:

• Northern Italy: swimming in mountain lakes, hiking the Dolomites, exploring local cafés
• Central Italy: relax in picturesque countryside regions like Tuscany and Umbria
• Southern Italy: enjoy natural beauty, and try Neapolitan cuisine like pizza and other local dishes
• Italian Riviera: this stretch of coastline runs from the French border to La Spezia. Visitors can explore the Cinque Terre villages along the cliffs
• Iconic Cities: history buffs will love the culture and significance of Italian cities like Rome, Venice, Florence, Milan, Verona, Pompeii, and more

Decide the best time to visit Italy for you

As you follow an Italy travel guide, make sure you consider the time of year you want to travel. Italy has a predominantly Mediterranean climate, which means sunny, hot summers and mild, rainy winters. Travelers can expect snow in the mountains of Northern Italy from December through April. Thus, winter in Northern Italy is a great time to visit for skiers and other winter sports lovers.

If you are hoping to visit Central or Southern Italy during the height of summer, expect dry heat and temperature highs in the 80s F. Seeking some sun? The historic city of Rome tends to be sunny year-round, with mild temperatures in the winter and an average of 70-80 F in the peak of summer. Plus, a summer trip to the coast is the best time to visit for swimmers and beach dwellers!

Consider an Italy home swap

If you have never done a home swap before, look into booking your accommodations via a home exchange site like THIRDHOME. Following this Italy travel guide tip allows you to have access to things only known to locals!

Whether you are escaping to the countryside or exploring Italian cities, a home exchange in Italy is an excellent way to save money on lodging. Home swapping allows you to immerse yourself in the country, culture, and local customs – all while enriching your Italy tour. Your home swap’s host is an invaluable resource for travel advice, recommendations, and other inside tips on how to have a one-of-a-kind holiday.

Learn more Italy travel tips by watching Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, now streaming exclusively on Paramount+ in the UK and Ireland.

Paramount+ includes a mountain of quality entertainment for everyone to enjoy. UK-based readers can subscribe here: https://www.paramountplus.com/gb/.

Paramount+ costs just £6.99/month or £69.90/year in the UK (€7.99 per month or €79.90 per year in Ireland) with a free 7-day trial available to everyone.

Sky Cinema subscribers get the bonus of Paramount+ included at no extra cost.

Are you looking to take a vacation, but don’t want to leave your home vacant for long? Then it may be time to consider a house swap vacation. With the rise of the pandemic, one house swapping network found that membership rose by 282 percent in 2020.

From working remotely to enjoying new sights with your family, many people are finding that swapping houses is a great way to explore the world safely and at a low cost.

With this in mind, read on for our comprehensive guide on house swap holidays!

What is House Swapping?

If you’re looking to go on vacation with cheap accommodations, house swapping is a popular option. This is when you utilize house swap websites or a house swap app, and swap houses with other people who are looking for an affordable vacation.

For instance, if you’re seeking accommodations for a one-month stay in Ireland and you live in Florida, you may find that a homeowner in Ireland is also looking for a month of warmer weather and beautiful Florida beaches.

It’s also possible to do a non-simultaneous stay. This means that if you know you’ll be away from home for a while, you can agree for someone else to stay in your home as a short-term vacation rental.

You can then stay at their home at a time more convenient to you.

Understand the Costs

Before you jump in, you’ll need to understand that are still some costs associated with home swapping. If you use a website to list your house, most of these home swapping networks will require a membership fee. This is typically an annual rate of $150 or more.

Along with the membership cost, you may need to pay an extra fee that offsets cleaning costs for the homeowners. You may also need to negotiate utility costs, especially if you’ll be staying in a home for longer than a month.

Clear Communication

Next, it’s important that both parties are clear about expectations. For instance, you’ll want to let people know what days the trash goes out, as well as the cleanliness you expect when you get home. You may also ask for people to water your indoor plants or garden while they’re staying at your home.

Some homeowners even choose to create house manuals or pamphlets for their homes. This can include operating instructions for the TV, checkout procedures, and what areas are off-limits.

Unlike booking a hotel or Airbnb, you’ll find that there’s more communication required for home swapping, since it’s a more personal exchange. It’s possible to form long-term relationships with other homeowners as you establish greater levels of trust with each other.

What Are the Benefits of House Swapping?

Now that you know some of the basics of home swapping, what are some of the benefits that you can enjoy? Here are just a few:

Living in Comfort

If you’re traveling internationally for a month or more, you may find that home swapping is far more comfortable than booking a hotel or even an Airbnb. This is because you’ll have all the benefits of a house without the costs.

For instance, you’ll be able to save costs by cooking in the kitchen more often, as well as doing laundry. Noise also may not be as much of a problem.

Enjoy Life as a Local

One of the main issues people have when traveling is that they can get stuck in common “tourist areas.” Although you can still experience plenty of history, you’re missing out on how people are experiencing the location every day.

By house swapping, you’ll be able to be more in tune with how locals live day-to-day. You’ll be able to see the kinds of books they read, shows they watch, and even toys they purchase for their kids.

Utilize Second Homes

Home swapping is even more convenient if you have a second home. Since you aren’t living in your home throughout the years, this means that it can remain occupied by vacationers. When you’re ready to start traveling, you can bank on the vacationers’ homes that used your property previously.

Low-Cost

Last but not least, home swapping can be far more affordable than timeshares, short-term vacation rentals, and hotels. You may or may not have to pay the utility bill during your stay along with a small cleaning fee. Besides that, all you have to worry about is an affordable annual membership fee.

Keep in mind that when you book a hotel or short-term vacation rental, many of them don’t come with a working kitchen. This means that you’re spending additional money eating out every day. You can save even more money and stretch your vacation budget by cooking a few days out of the week.

Take Advantage of a House Swap Vacation

House swapping is easier now than ever before because of the internet. You can easily use home swapping networks in order to compare your options, easily list your home, and vet people who will be staying at your home. This means you can have increased peace of mind while you’re away.

Start by making a list of all the places you want to explore in the future along with the dates. Then, start looking for home swapping opportunities as soon as possible in order to book reservations and connect with other homeowners. This can lead to long-lasting, cross-country, and international relationships.

Ready for a house swap that’s luxurious as well as convenient? Get started with us today!

Are you interested in being a house swapper? Read this guide to learn everything you need to know about picking the best home exchange sites.

The coronavirus pandemic shook up pretty much every facet of life in 2020, and continues to do so in 2021. The real estate industry was no exception. One of the trends that spiked during the pandemic was the purchase of second homes.

As the old saying goes: sometimes you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone. With shutdowns, travel restrictions, and social distancing, the COVID-19 pandemic made countless Americans realize that all they really want to do is travel the world. While buying a second home can allow you some escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, there is still an unscratched itch of exploring a new destination entirely.

With home exchange sites, this becomes possible. You can team up with another home owner (or second home owner) in a location you’ve always dreamed of visiting and swap homes.

How does this work, though, and what do you need to know about engaging in a home exchange? Let’s take a deep dive into all the details.

What Are Home Exchange Sites?

Home exchange sites are websites that connect individuals who are looking to do a home swap.

You will often hear the terms home exchange, house swapping, and other similar phrases used interchangeably. This is a form of lodging where two separate parties agree to trade residences for a set period of time.

Home sharing is on the rise and disrupting the hotel industry. You can learn more here.

Many travelers find that this type of exchange is a comfortable, economical, and incredibly fascinating way to deal with the problem of lodging when traveling. Rather than staying in a personality-less hotel in the touristy part of town, home exchanges allow people to have a more interesting and authentic experience when traveling.

(Looking to for inspiration when it comes to the possibilities of luxury travel? Check out this story of THIRDHOME exchange members from Italy and New York.)

Understanding What It Means to Exchange Homes

Not all people will find that a home exchange is right for them. Some people love exchanging homes and do it several times a year. This allows them to spend time in new places, while having the comfort and amenities of a home. In some instances, the family car is included in the home exchange, which means that they also don’t have to worry about transportation.

When you do a home exchange, you can experience what life is like in a local community rather than a tourist district. It is common for exchange partners to leave information about the area and to introduce their trading partners to friends or neighbors.

However, some people would rather stay in hotels and eat out at restaurants when they travel. In this case, a home exchange likely isn’t the right fit. Other travelers can feel wary about having people they don’t know live in their house for a period of time when they are out of town.

For people in the latter camp, a better choice might be a vacation rental. This way, they can get some of the benefits of staying in an actual home without having to trade their own.

Depending on your location, it can also be difficult sometimes to swap homes. For example, someone who lives in the heart of Paris might not be particularly interested in exchanging houses with someone in Oklahoma City.

However, for people who live in popular vacation destinations, there are a wide variety of options and offers.

People who are drawn to home exchanges tend to be slow travelers. This means that they prefer to stay put for a while in each location, and aren’t super strict about their itinerary.

Home exchanges can serve as a wonderful base for weekend excursions or longer trips.

The Different Types of Home Exchanges

According to one study, 65% of Americans planned on traveling more after the pandemic than they did before it started. These days, there are more different ways that you can deal with lodging when you travel than ever before. You can stick with traditional hotels, rent a vacation rental, stay in a yurt, occupy a treehouse, exchange homes with other world travelers, and so much more.

However, a home exchange is probably the best deal when it comes to what it costs you and what you get out of the deal. Staying in a hotel is expensive and even those Instagram-ready treehouses can set you back a pretty penny. When you exchange homes, though, you only have to pay a nominal fee and offer your house to like-minded travelers who are seeking to see the world.

One of the things you will want to know about home exchange sites, though, is that there are different types of home exchange. Depending on your circumstances and preferences, one of these types of sites might make more sense for you than others.

There are a number of different types of home exchanges. A traditional exchange involves both parties traveling at the same time and staying at the primary residence of the other.

Another less common type of home exchange is a “non-simultaneous exchange.”

This is when the parties don’t need to worry about traveling at the same time and coordinating dates. Instead, the partners swap secondary residences or vacation homes, allowing them to travel when it works with their schedule and desires. There are holiday home exchange sites where you can set up this type of arrangement.

A hospitality exchange is the third type of exchange. This is when the two parties take turns spending time as a gues in the primary residence of the other.

How to Alleviate Pre-House Exchange Jitters

It’s perfectly normal to feel nervous about this type of arrangement when it’s your first time. The best way to deal with first-time home-swapping anxiety is to get to know the people you are exchanging homes with.

You will also want to consider all of the different details that might come up as a part of the process. Are you going to hire a cleaning service and do you expect your host to use a cleaning service? Will you leave food for your guests and are you expecting there to be food left for you in your vacation destination?

Figuring out logistical concerns such as how you will exchange keys can help reduce your jitters.

Are Home Exchange Sites Just For Homeowners?

Home exchange sites aren’t always just for homeowners. People who rent apartments or houses are often also able to participate. Additionally, so long as you’ve gotten the ok from necessary parties, people that own condos or co-ops can exchange homes.

If you aren’t the owner of your home or have a condo or a co-op, you’ll want to check with your landlord or co-op board first. You can also take a look at your lease to see if there is anything written about renting your place to people you don’t know. In your lease, this type of arrangement might be referred to as a temporary sublet.

Home Exchange Sites: Tips For Your Search

While home exchanges can be a wonderful way to travel, they aren’t particularly suited to last-minute plans. It is typically advised that you start planning home swaps between three and six months ahead of time when you are traveling internationally. It might even be warranted to start planning as early as nine months in advance.

This is particularly true if you are traveling to a location where there is a major event occurring. For example, if you are traveling to Wimbledon during their world-famous tennis tournament, you will want to lock down your arrangements far in advance.

Will Your Home Be in Good Hands?

In all likelihood, your home will be safe and in good hands when you participate in a home swap. This is particularly true if you are engaging in a direct swap. In these instances, both you and your trading party are taking on the responsibility of caring for each other’s homes at the same time.

You can enhance trust and friendship ahead of time by corresponding frequently leading up to the swap. If it is at all possible, it can be good to meet in person in one of the homes before the swap occurs.

You will want to make sure that both parties are insured adequately. If a car is included in the agreement, this also includes auto insurance.

It is actually quite rare for there to be problems with home exchanges. Probably the most common issue that pops up comes out of people having different cleanliness standards.

It can be a good idea to ask for references ahead of time before you agree to swap houses. This can help prevent misunderstandings or problems. Writing and signing an informal written agreement can also help outline the agreed-upon terms.

At THIRDHOME, you can exchange homes with other members of our private vacation exchange. With a robust, two-sided review system, everyone is held accountable.

Are You Interested in Exchanging Luxury Homes?

There are countless reasons why a luxury home exchange is superior to staying in hotels when you travel. Given this, it’s no wonder that jetsetters and globetrotters around the world are tapping into this incredible potential.

One of the reasons that this has become such a popular way to travel is because it offers more space and privacy for families or large groups that are traveling together. It also opens up completely new destinations to travelers who are looking for an authentic experience. When you wander around the THIRDHOME site, you can be inspired by places that you’ve never even heard of that offer genuine opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Many people are understandably tired of traveling between tourist hot spots and never truly feeling like they get to know the truth about a new place. When you exchange luxury homes, it allows you to live like a local. You will have access to your host’s wealth of knowledge about the community when you stay in their private residence.

This means you will have access to insider secrets about where to eat, where to go, and what to do. When you exchange luxury homes with a like-minded world traveler, you also get to enjoy luxurious accomodations that make your stay truly rejuvenating.

On top of all that, exchanging luxury homes allows you to explore the world without burning a hole in your pocket. For a nominal fee, you can exchange homes with another second home owner in a location that will allow you to relax and explore all while feeling at home.

Are you wondering if THIRDHOME luxury exchange is right for you? Check out this article to learn more.)

The Best Luxury Home Exchange Site

If you are looking for a travel club for second home owners, you’ve come to the right place. Our exclusive membership club connects people who share a mindset for exploration and luxury.

The nature of having a second home is that you aren’t using it all the time. When looking for the best home exchange sites, THIRDHOME is probably going to catch your eye. With THIRDHOME, you can take advantage of this reality by opening the doors to a huge selection of other homes in incredible locations around the world.

Whether you’re a retiree, a jetsetter, or something in between, THIRDHOME is a network for people who are inspired by travel.

Are you ready to revolutionize the way you travel? Are you ready to experience new places in an intimate, comfortable, and luxurious way? If so, you can join THIRDHOME today.

If you love traveling but feel tied to your own place, home swap may be an option. It allows you to enjoy privacy and the comforts of home while leveraging your own investment. Perhaps it is time to try a home swap?

It will allow you to see the world for much less than you could pay for other forms of accommodation, like hotels. Plus, you have the same comforts of home, yet get the benefit of visiting other parts of the world.

Luxury home exchanges are becoming very popular with travellers looking for comfortable but exciting new travel experiences.

If you are considering making an exchange but are still unsure about what it involves, then read on. Our short guide will tell you all you need to know.

What Is A Home Swap?

A home exchange or home swap is when stay in someone else’s property whilst they stay in yours. There are several ways this can be done either simultaneously or not, or you can host your exchange family whilst you stay in your house.

You get to choose and arrange the house exchange that works for you and work with your exchange family to craft the ideal holiday for you and your family.

Home swaps can take place between home owner’s primary residences, or with their second homes. 

Home exchanges can allow you to experience a new place or even a new country with the comforts of staying at home. They allow you to taste life as a local, living as they would live in their city or town.

Types of Home Swaps

Primary Home vs. Vacation Home Exchange 

Thanks to movies like The Holiday (2006), home exchanging has continued to grow and evolve over the years. In the movie, two characters swap homes for two weeks. One lives in Surrey, England while the other lives in Los Angeles. This swap, is an example of primary home exchange, and is defined as the usage of an owner’s primary home that they live in full time. A vacation home exchange, on the other hand, involves the exchange of a second home, investment property, or fractional resort property. THIRDHOME is a home exchange that facilitates vacation home exchanges.

Reciprocal vs. Direct Exchange

A direct exchange is where two homeowners coordinate calendars to stay in each other’s properties during the same period. Direct exchanges were popular among academic groups in the 1950s because academia shared similar schedules in which they could travel. Those outside of academia didn’t have the same flexibility in schedule, so the trend didn’t catch on. Eventually, the Internet allowed exchange companies to create marketplaces where direct exchanges weren’t necessary. A reciprocal exchange or indirect exchange, allows more flexibility for an owner by utilizing a credit system. THIRDHOME, for example, uses the reciprocal exchange model by awarding Keys to owners when they deposit stays. This, in turn, allows an owner to use their credits (Keys in our case) during a time that suits them.

A simultaneous swap is the most common kind of exchange. This means you both holiday in the other’s property at the same time. 

A non-simultaneous swap is a little more difficult to arrange as it means one person holidays in your property whilst you stay somewhere else, and vice versa.

A hospitality exchange is a final option for a house swap, and this requires you to host your exchange family in your house whilst you are still living there.

You can choose whichever option suits you best and arrange it either directly with your exchange family or via a home exchange partner. Joining a home exchange club will give you access to a greater variety of homes to visit, offer more protection, and provide assistance for finding and booking an exchange.

What Are the Benefits?

Luxury home exchange sites will enable you to find house swaps in some incredible properties in desirable parts of the world.

If you own a second home, you can participate on house exchange site and earn credit for taking your own homestay vacations around the world.

The benefits of a home exchange are that you get to feel at home wherever you are in the world. You will have a full run of the house and gardens and will feel as comfortable on holiday as if you were in your own property.

If you live in the city but fancy an opportunity to spend time in the countryside or by the sea, then a house exchange could be the perfect holiday opportunity for you.

Time To Do A House Swap?

Is it time you tried a home exchange? Hopefully, this article has given you some inspiration for the incredible opportunities that await. Take your family on a new adventure and explore the world from the comfort of your new home.

If you would like to learn more about our luxury house exchange opportunities, please take a look at some of our available properties.

What is Home Exchange?

According to Wikipedia, “Home exchange, also known as “house swapping”, is a form of lodging in which two parties agree to offer each other homestays for a set period. It can include an exchange of the entire home or just a room. The length of the swap can vary from a weekend to over a year.”

More recently, home exchange has become a valuable tool for homeowners to leverage their vacation property for world travel. Direct exchanges were the first type to gain popularity, in which one property owner directly swapped their home with another during the same period. While a great way to see new sites with the comforts of home, direct exchanges don’t allow for flexibility of location or time frame. Out of the need for more options and not having to rely on other’s schedules, reciprocal home exchange was created. 

A reciprocal home exchange means both owners receive the same value for their exchange. Additionally, indirect home exchange means homeowners do not have to exchange homes simultaneously. This eliminates the need to compare schedules and utilize a credit system. Homeowners use credits to “cash in” for stays on a particular marketplace. This is how THIRDHOME is structured, creating a trusted club environment. By combining indirect and reciprocal exchange, homeowners have the peace of mind that they receive the same value as the guests they host and allows maximum flexibility. 

A Way to Leverage your Investment with Home Exchange

Home exchange offers immense value. Why pay high nightly rental rates for incredible accommodations if you can leverage unused time in your second home for a nominal exchange fee? You can also extend the hospitality and invite friends and family to join a home stay versus a traditional hotel stay. 

Enjoy the Comforts of Home When you Travel

Home exchange is an excellent option if you prefer the comforts that come with staying in a single-family home. A home stay offers an air of privacy that you cannot find with traditional travel accommodations, such as hotels. Many times, travelers don’t want to share common spaces like a lobby, pool, outdoor living. You can be assured that the homes you visit in the THIRDHOME portfolio are equipped with all the creature comforts you have become accustomed to when staying in your own vacation home

Visit New Destinations and Live Like a Local

Staying in a host’s private residence means access to their wealth of knowledge about that community. Live like a local and enjoy an insider scoop on the locals’ best-kept-secrets, must-do activities, where to eat, shop, or visit. Focus on the memories you can create when you can become immersed in your new home away from home.

An Elevated Experience

Reciprocal home stays can offer a level of trust that you can’t always rely on through a rental program, where technically anyone can have access to your home. As a member of a private vacation exchange, like THIRDHOME, every member has skin in the game, and you can trust that whoever stays in your home will treat it as they would their own. THIRDHOME has added another layer of trust through its robust, two-sided review system that keeps everyone accountable. Not only does the guest review their stay, but the host provides a review of the guest. 

Luxury-Only Home Exchange

Unlike other home exchange programs, THIRDHOME was explicitly designed to facilitate reciprocal luxury property exchanges and requires specific membership criteria. The average home value is $2.4M, and at a minimum, the home value must be $1,000,000. It is never with a member’s primary residence but instead involves exchanging a single-family home, luxury condominium, investment property, or fractional resort property. Homes must be in desirable areas, with fine appointments, furnishings, and amenities. 

Click here to see what our current members have to say about their trip with THIRDHOME. If this sounds like something you’d like to be a part of and you’re ready to learn more about using your second home to travel to a THIRDHOME, let’s talk! Because we want to ensure that our program is a mutual fit, there’s no pressure to commit. 

The Origins of THIRDHOME and How the Club Works

How it Began

The concept for this home exchange program began to take shape back in 1986. After having been one of the top Real Estate Agents on Hilton Head, THIRDHOME Chairman & CEO Wade Shealy co-founded one of the largest and most successful real estate firms in South Carolina. Wade kept noticing that no matter how excited clients initially were about their second home purchase, almost all of them were back in his office within five years wanting to sell. As his buyers originally purchased vacation homes with grand dreams of it being part of generations to come, they were now ready to sell because it had become a burden. Visits to the second home felt more like an obligation rather than a well-deserved getaway. When he asked, Why? It was always the same answer:

“As much as we’ve loved having a place on Hilton Head, we feel we’ve seen and done everything there is to do. We’d like to look at buying somewhere else, so we can experience new things on our trips.”

Wouldn’t it be great if owning a luxury second home in a desirable location would allow you to use other homes all over the world? Daring to do things differently, Shealy founded THIRDHOME in 2010, with a few friends and clients being the first to sign up for this innovative home exchange program.

What is a typical THIRDHOME home?

THIRDHOME members are owners of single-family vacation homes, luxury condominiums, or time at luxury fractional resorts. The average home value is $2.4 million, with a minimum home value of $500,000, and homes ranging upwards of $50 plus million. Additionally, it must be in a desirable location with quality furnishings, appointments, and amenities. When you join this exclusive community, you will find people just like you who respect and treat your home as they would their own. 

How to Join

Upon completing the enrollment form, our Member Experience team will be in touch to discuss your application. We want to find out if the Club is a mutual fit and home exchange is for you. We carefully guide you through the enrollment, and before your membership is activated, we provide a thorough onboarding to ensure you know how to get the most out of membership. Our platform has lots of user-friendly tools that help make finding your next dream vacation a reality. Our number one goal is to help you travel the world and create memorable experiences. 

Booking a Stay

Members have access to reserve any home in the Club as long as they have enough “Keys” or travel credits. You earn Keys upon depositing time in your own home. The more desirable the time you give, the more Keys you get. An interactive world map provides a bird’s-eye view to explore the world. Our dynamic website also allows members to set criteria for the kind of stay they desire— private homes, estates, full-service, pet-friendly, and yachts, to name a few examples. The more flexible your schedule, the more options you will have. Simply go online, browse, click and instantly reserve a stay. 

Outstanding Member Service

Service is an integral part of membership in THIRDHOME. From the minute you call to inquire about joining until you are an active member of the Club, we are here to guide you along the way and to help you get the most out of the Club. Our number one goal is to help you travel! With teams in the U.S. and Spain representing five nations and seven languages, we are well prepared to provide you with a fantastic experience for your local or international vacation needs.  

Today, with over 14,000 properties, across 100 countries, we have become a trusted way for owners worldwide to leverage time in their vacation homes to travel the world. Don’t just take our word for it; click here to see what others have to say.

We can’t wait to welcome you to the Club!