Avila Lipsett of New York.
Websites are helpful, but we also believe word of mouth is a good way to test things out PR Consultant Avila Lipsett. She swapped a Dublin apartment for a Manhattan apartment for three weeks in 2022. “I advertised on social media and found a place to live through mutual friends of hers,” she explains. “When I wanted to travel, an American girl who loved Ireland was open to coming to Dublin. I heard there were so many scams, so it was great to meet her in person beforehand,” Lipsett said. says Mr. Although there was a lot to organize in advance (like cleaning up the first house), the exchange went very well and she returned later the same year to enjoy a summer in the city. I'd like to go to LA or Sydney for my next exchange.
But Peter Timmins has swapped properties more than a dozen times, he says. There is a tradition of house exchange in Europe, but this is not the case in Ireland. Privacy involves an element of trust, and for many people, privacy is an issue. Having strangers staying in your home and worrying about security issues can be unpleasant. But for those who are educated about the benefits of a home swap, it's a cost-effective way to travel and meet like-minded people. I've only had positive experiences so far. ” That's exactly what Timmins founded Homes 4 Home Launched in July last year, it is Ireland's first home exchange site where members can choose from a portfolio of around 150 homes. Viewing is free. Membership costs 149 euros. “The majority of our real estate is in Ireland, which rejects our continued appreciation for staycations. Whether you want to see the Christmas market in Galway, see a play in Dublin or take a short break in Kerry, members can With a house swap, you can save on extras like going out and nice restaurants.'' There are also attractive options abroad. “Given the Irish diaspora, we receive many inquiries internationally and are currently providing housing from Quebec to Alicante in Spain to rural France. Our customers are retirees with plenty of time to travel and teachers on vacation looking for a second home.” www.home4home.ie; www.homeexhange.com.