Where to Find Premium Home Swaps in the World's Best Places to Live

Travel accommodation is often one of the biggest expenses, but home exchange websites are changing the game. 

Instead of paying high nightly rates for hotels or vacation rentals, travelers can enjoy luxury vacation rentals through simple swaps, complete with private pools, elegant interiors, and the aesthetic appeal of curated homes.

This approach is perfect for professionals seeking work-life balance, families needing more space, or retirees craving a private retreat with peaceful surroundings. 

Many listings even include high-speed internet, making them ideal for digital nomads who want to stay connected to the outside world while exploring new cultures.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the best home exchange sites for international house swapping, from budget-friendly options to exclusive luxury vacation home community networks. 

1. HomeExchange

HomeExchange makes global travel accessible with budget-friendly home swaps, while the exclusive HomeExchange Collection caters to those seeking luxury vacation homes and premium experiences, making it the ultimate platform of choice for every type of traveler.

HomeExchange Collection is the gold standard for luxury swaps in top cities.

With over 5,000 handpicked luxury homes in prime destinations, from a designer apartment in Paris to a riverfront retreat in Oregon, you’ll find homes that inspire and travels you’ll remember. 

Each property is chosen for its aesthetic appeal, location, and amenities, giving you the comfort of a private retreat while immersing you in the local community.

One of the features that sets HomeExchange Collection apart is the GuestPoints system, which removes the need for simultaneous swaps. You can host when convenient, earn points, and redeem them later for stays in some of the world’s most desirable locations.

This flexibility makes it possible to plan everything from short weekend trips to long family getaways without the stress of coordinating calendars.

For just $1,000 per year, members enjoy:

• Unlimited exchanges with no nightly costs or booking fees. 
• Access to 5,000+ global premium vacation homes inside Collection, plus 360,000+ homes on HomeExchange Classic
• $2M property damage protection and up to $350/night compensation for cancellations
• Personalized support with 24/7 assistance and dedicated exchange experts
• Professional photo enhancement to elevate your listing
• A 1,050 GuestPoint welcome bonus to cover your first exchange
• Access to a private, high-net-worth luxury vacation home community (including a members-only Facebook group)
• Exclusive offers, from private cooking sessions with renowned chefs to in-home massages and curated global tours
• Plus, if you don’t finalize an exchange in your first year, your second year is free, a guarantee that underscores their commitment to delivering value.

Members' experience with HomeExchange Collection has been nothing short of outstanding. 

In just a few years, many members have testified to arranging over 15 swaps across the U.S. and Canada, from Scottsdale to South Lake Tahoe, and other parts of the world. 

Many say each stay felt seamless, safe, and deeply rewarding.

While the annual membership fee may seem steep at first glance, even a single summer exchange in a popular destination can easily offset the cost. 

Add in HomeExchange Collection's responsive customer support, user-friendly app, and advanced search filters, and it’s easy to see why HomeExchange remains the world’s leading and most trusted platform for luxury vacation home community living.

Pros

• Elite home exchange locations
• Curated, design-led homes with peaceful surroundings and private pools
• Strong guarantees: $2M damage coverage + $350/night cancellation protection
• Personalized services and exchange experts available 24/7
• Flexibility through GuestPoints
• Vibrant global community of verified members

Cons

• HomeExchange Collection has a higher annual fee than some other platforms, reflecting the elevated quality, protections, and exclusive experiences that set HomeExchange Collection apart from standard home swap platforms. For many members, a single exchange offsets the cost. However, HomeExchange, the budget option, has a membership fee of $220 per year
• Membership is subject to home eligibility and approval, ensuring only exceptional homes and members are included
• Smaller, exclusive network compared to HomeExchange Classic, meaning members enjoy a more intimate, trusted community of like-minded travelers, which often leads to more meaningful connections

2. HomeLink

Founded in 1953, HomeLink is the world’s original home exchange network, with over 70 years of experience in connecting travelers. 

Today, it offers a curated portfolio of around 14,000 homes across 58+ countries, mostly concentrated in Europe, North America, and Oceania. 

Listings range from mountain retreats and countryside cottages to family-friendly homes in popular vacation regions.

Unlike newer platforms, HomeLink operates on a more traditional exchange model. Members arrange simultaneous or non-simultaneous swaps directly through a secure messaging system, without a GuestPoints alternative. 

While this makes it less flexible than HomeExchange, it appeals to travelers who prefer straightforward, one-to-one arrangements.

Cost: $169 per year (with a free 30-day trial to explore listings and connect with members).

Pros

• One of the oldest, most trusted names in home exchanges
• Affordable membership compared to larger platforms
• Local organizers and support in 20+ countries
• Suitable for families looking for cultural immersion opportunities

Cons

• Limited global coverage compared to HomeExchange
• No points system or non-reciprocal exchange option
• Website and interface feel dated compared to newer competitors
• Smaller inventory means fewer choices in high-demand destinations

3. Kindred

Launched in 2021, Kindred is a relatively new player in the home exchange market that’s quickly gained attention for its modern, service-driven approach. 

With a growing network of around 50,000 homes across 100 cities, mostly concentrated in North America and Europe, Kindred caters to urban travelers seeking short-term swaps in well-maintained primary residences.

Unlike more traditional platforms, Kindred combines home exchange with concierge-style services. All homes are professionally photographed, vetted, and approved, and the platform provides fresh linens, towels, and cleaning before and after each stay. 

This level of service sets it apart, but it also makes Kindred one of the more expensive options in the space.

Membership works on a credit-based system (1 credit = 1 night). New members receive 5 free credits upon approval, allowing them to try the platform before hosting. 

Guests typically pay $15–$35 per night in cleaning and service fees ($150–$250 per trip). Frequent travelers can opt for an annual plan ($600/year), which eliminates per-night service fees.

Cost: Pay-per-stay model ($15–$35 per night + cleaning), or $600/year membership for unlimited stays.

Pros

• Strong focus on safety and community (all members vetted and verified)
• Professionally cleaned and serviced homes
• User-friendly website and mobile app
• Concierge support for booking and communication
• High-quality home swap listings in major cities

Cons

• Smaller inventory compared to HomeExchange and other established platforms
• Limited primarily to North America and Europe
• More expensive than most alternatives, especially for short stays
• No flexibility for secondary/vacation homes, only primary residences allowed

You may like to read: Why use HomeExchange instead of renting?

4. Intervac

Founded in 1953, Intervac is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of house exchange. With a membership base of around 13,000 listings in more than 80 countries, it has earned a solid reputation over decades, particularly in Europe, where most of its homes are located.

The platform operates on a direct swap model, allowing members to arrange simultaneous or non-simultaneous exchanges without money changing hands. Intervac’s structure appeals to families and seasoned travelers who enjoy a straightforward, trust-based exchange system.

An annual membership ($130/year) grants users access to unlimited exchange agreements, personal exchange coordinators, wish lists, and custom alerts. There’s also a 21-day free trial for newcomers to test the platform before committing.

Cost: $130 per year (one of the lower-priced memberships).

Pros

• Decades-long reputation and established community
• Strong presence in Europe
• Affordable membership compared to many platforms
• Comprehensive search filters for tailored results
• Great for families or casual travelers looking for cultural exchange

Cons

• Website design feels outdated compared to modern platforms
• Smaller global inventory compared to HomeExchange
• Less suited for remote workers seeking modern amenities

5. People Like Us

Launched in 2018, People Like Us (PLU) has quickly built a reputation as the most community-focused home exchange platform. 

What sets PLU apart is not the size of its network but the personal touch, from active member forums and virtual meetups to regional ambassadors who support newcomers. 

Members often highlight the strong friendships and sense of trust that form through the platform.

The network now spans 100+ countries, with thousands of listings. While smaller than HomeExchange, PLU attracts a loyal, engaged community, particularly popular among families, long-term travelers, and worldschoolers.

A flat membership fee of $159/year includes unlimited exchanges, with no hidden costs. Members can arrange four types of swaps:

• Simultaneous exchanges (most common, same dates)
• Non-simultaneous exchanges (different dates)
• Non-reciprocal stays using their Globe system (1 Globe = 1 stay)
• Hospitality exchanges (staying while the host is still home)

Cost: $159 per year (with discounted multi-year memberships available).

Pros

• Exceptionally strong community with active forums and events
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
• Flexible exchange options, including the Globe system
• Responsive customer support and personal member connections
• Great for families and worldschooling communities

Cons

• Smaller inventory compared to larger platforms like HomeExchange
• Listings concentrated in North America, Europe, and Australia
• The mobile app is less polished than the main website
• Reciprocal exchanges can sometimes be harder to coordinate

6. Behomm

Behomm is unlike any other home exchange platform; it’s an invitation-only network created specifically for creative professionals and design lovers. 

Founded by a pair of graphic designers, Behomm curates a community of architects, artists, designers, photographers, and other design-conscious members who value both travel and aesthetics.

The platform is deliberately small and exclusive, which means that while the network isn’t as broad or versatile as HomeExchange, it offers something different: a high-trust, design-forward environment where members share similar values. 

While it is niche, it has properties spanning the globe, from modern lofts to historic townhouses. In this sense, it offers a one-of-a-kind and unique experience for discerning travellers.

The homes for swaps themselves are often visually stunning, think minimalist lofts, historic villas, and unique properties with artistic flair.

Behomm’s interface reflects the same sensibility as its members: clean, elegant, and simple. Exchanges are easy to arrange, and members receive personalized service directly from the founders.

Cost: First year free, then €380 annually.

Pros

• Invitation-only, fostering high levels of trust
• Beautifully designed homes with artistic and architectural character
• Strong sense of shared values among members
• Elegant, design-focused user experience
• Personalized, small-scale support

Cons

• Only open to creative professionals, making it less accessible
• Smaller network compared to broader platforms
• Geographic diversity is limited due to exclusivity

7. Swaphouse

Swaphouse is a newer, free home exchange platform designed with remote workers and digital nomads in mind. With just over 1,300 listings across all continents, the platform specializes in homes that are work-from-home friendly, making it especially attractive for those planning extended stays or “workations.”

The exchange process works through a match-based system that feels a bit like a dating app. You can browse the “Explore” section, tap the heart on homes you like, and if the other member likes your home too, you’ve got a match, ready to arrange a swap. 

The biggest draw? It’s completely free. No membership fees, no listing costs, and no hidden charges.

Cost: Free

Pros

• All homes are remote-work ready (with office setups or high-speed internet)
• Great for longer stays, slow travel, or digital nomads
• 100% free, offering huge savings compared to rentals
• Simple, modern, and intuitive interface

Cons

• Still a relatively small network compared to larger platforms
• Limited trust-building features due to being new
• Fewer geographic options than more established exchanges

Takeaway: Unlock seamless luxury home swaps with HomeExchange

Premium home swapping isn’t just about saving money; it’s about achieving lifestyle balance, embracing sustainable practices, and enjoying luxury vacation home swaps in prime destinations with peaceful surroundings.

While niche platforms like Behomm or Swaphouse have their appeal, HomeExchange Collection delivers unmatched access to curated homes, personalized services, and a thriving local community. 

It’s the ideal solution for those who want to experience life without compromising on comfort, privacy, or authenticity.

Join HomeExchange Collection today and start planning your next swap.

FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about home exchange websites: 

Do people still swap houses today?

Yes! Home swapping is more popular than ever. According to CNN Travel, platforms like HomeExchange and its premium HomeExchange Collection have made it easier, safer, and more appealing than traditional rentals or hotels. 

Today, tens of thousands of people—from families to digital nomads- swap homes each year to enjoy authentic local stays and significant savings.

Are home exchanges really safe?

The best home exchange websites have strong identity verification and review systems. HomeExchange Collection goes even further, with strict vetting, dedicated member support, and guarantees that protect both hosts and guests. 

You can also read more about our safety measures in this guide.

Do I need to own a second home to join premium exchanges?

Not at all. Many members list their primary residence. As long as your home meets our standards (quality, design, and amenities), you can take part. Second homes, villas, and estates are welcome, but they’re not required.

Which home swap site has the most luxury listings?

That would be HomeExchange Collection. Unlike general platforms, the Collection is tailored specifically for luxury homeowners who seek exclusive benefits, enhanced guarantees, and access to premium residences worldwide. 

Members gain entry to thousands of luxury vacation homes, including private estates, villas, and even yachts in prime destinations such as Paris, London, the Hamptons, Mauritius, and Turks & Caicos.

How do I qualify for HomeExchange Collection?

To join, your home must meet specific eligibility criteria around value, design, amenities, and location:

• Value: Homes typically valued at $1.5M+ USD
• Design: Elegant interiors, refined furnishings, and high aesthetic appeal
• Amenities: Private pools, jacuzzis, gyms, home theaters, or staff such as chefs/housekeepers
• Location: Desirable urban centers, resort destinations, or unique natural escapes

Once approved, you’ll receive:

• Professional photo enhancements for your listing
• Access to exclusive partner offers and private groups
• Personal exchange assistance from the HomeExchange team

Already a member of HomeExchange? You can apply directly to upgrade to Collection.

How can I pick the right home exchange site?

It depends on your goals:

• If you’re after a luxury vacation home swap, personalized services, and peace of mind, HomeExchange Collection is unmatched.
• For frequent travelers looking for breadth of options, HomeExchange (standard membership) is the largest and most active network.
• Smaller or niche platforms may suit specific needs for budget travel, creative communities, or work-from-home setups.

Is joining HomeExchange Collection a good investment?

Yes, especially if you travel regularly. A single trip can cover the cost of the annual fee, given that luxury accommodations often cost hundreds (or thousands) of dollars per night.

Are there potential risks of home swapping?

Like any shared-economy model, there are risks. However, platforms like HomeExchange minimize them with:

• Insurance & guarantees: up to $1M coverage against damages
• Verification & reviews: ensuring members are vetted and accountable
• Dedicated support: member services assist before, during, and after exchanges

Common concerns such as theft, damage, or lack of amenities are rare. In fact, most members treat each other’s homes with the utmost respect. 

And unlike hotels that contribute to higher carbon footprints, home swapping supports sustainable practices by reusing existing housing instead of consuming new resources.