Host Guide
Everything you need to know about sharing your home on Swappahome and earning credits for your next adventure.
How It Works
Swappahome uses a simple credit system: 1 night = 1 credit. When you host guests, you earn credits. Use those credits to stay at other members' homes around the world.
List your home
Host guests & earn credits
Travel using your credits
You can also do direct home swaps – stay at someone's home while they stay at yours, no credits needed!
Getting Started
Before you can host, you'll need to complete a few steps:
Complete ID verification to build trust with potential guests.
Add photos, description, and details about your home.
Our team reviews every listing to maintain quality standards.
Provide proof of address to verify you live at or own the property.
Creating a Great Listing
Photos That Stand Out
- Natural light: Shoot during the day with curtains open
- Clean and tidy: Declutter before taking photos
- Show every room: Living room, bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom, outdoor spaces
- Highlight unique features: Views, fireplace, garden, special decor
- Minimum 4 photos required, but 8-12 is ideal
Writing Your Description
- Be honest and accurate – set the right expectations
- Describe the neighborhood and nearby attractions
- Mention what makes your home special
- Include practical info: parking, public transport, shops
- Share your favorite local spots and recommendations
Setting Availability
Use the availability calendar to mark when your home is available for guests. Keep it updated to avoid declining requests for dates you can't accommodate.
Managing Booking Requests
When a guest requests to stay at your home, you'll receive a notification. Here's what to do:
Review the Request
Check the guest's profile, reviews from other hosts, and their verification status. Read their message to understand why they want to visit.
Ask Questions
Use the messaging feature to ask any questions before accepting. It's okay to want to know more about your potential guests.
Accept or Decline
Accept if you're comfortable. If you decline, the guest receives a full refund of their credits – no hard feelings!
Tip: Respond to requests promptly. Guests appreciate quick responses, and it helps you build a reputation as a reliable host.
Preparing Your Home
A clean, welcoming home leads to great reviews. Here's a checklist:
Cleaning Essentials
- ✓ Fresh bed linens and towels
- ✓ Clean bathroom with toiletries
- ✓ Tidy kitchen with basic supplies
- ✓ Vacuum/mop floors
- ✓ Empty trash bins
- ✓ Clean fridge (remove old food)
Nice Touches
- ✓ Welcome note with WiFi password
- ✓ Local guidebook or recommendations
- ✓ Coffee, tea, basic snacks
- ✓ Clear closet/drawer space
- ✓ Phone chargers available
- ✓ Emergency contact info
Security & Privacy
- ✓ Secure or remove valuables and important documents
- ✓ Lock any rooms you don't want guests to access
- ✓ Ensure smoke detectors and CO alarms work
- ✓ Leave emergency numbers visible
Welcoming Your Guests
Check-in Options
- In-person: Meet guests to hand over keys and give a tour
- Key lockbox: Leave keys in a secure lockbox with a code
- Smart lock: Share a temporary access code
- Neighbor/friend: Have someone available to let them in
Information to Provide
- WiFi network and password
- How to use appliances (heating, AC, washing machine)
- Garbage and recycling schedule
- Parking instructions
- House rules (shoes off, quiet hours, etc.)
- Your contact info for emergencies
During & After the Stay
During the Stay
Be available for questions but respect your guests' privacy. A quick message to check if they need anything goes a long way.
After Check-out
Go to your Bookings page and click "Mark as Completed" to receive your credits.
Share your experience to help other hosts. Reviews are visible after both parties submit.
Credits are automatically added to your balance once the stay is marked complete.
Getting Great Reviews
Your reviews are your reputation. Here's what guests rate:
- Cleanliness – The most important factor
- Accuracy – Does your home match the photos?
- Communication – Quick, helpful responses
- Check-in – Smooth arrival experience
- Location – Accurate description of the area
Focus on cleanliness and honest communication – these are what matter most to guests.
Home Swaps
In addition to earning credits, you can do direct home swaps with other members.
How Home Swaps Work
A guest can propose a swap instead of using credits. They offer their home for you to stay at in exchange for staying at yours. The dates don't need to be simultaneous!
Set your Travel Preferences in Settings to let potential swappers know where you'd like to travel.
Need Help?
Have questions about hosting? We're here to help.
- Email: support@swappahome.com
- Trust & Safety: Learn about our safety measures
Ready to Start Hosting?
Create your listing today and start earning credits for your next adventure.
Create Your Listing