FAQ

How does the vacation rental exchange work?

Our platform allows friends and family to share their vacation properties with each other. You can list your property for others to book, and in return, you can book other members' properties. It's like a trusted network where everyone benefits from sharing their vacation homes.

Who can join the platform?

The platform is designed for friends and family members who want to share vacation rentals. You'll need an invitation from an existing member to join, ensuring our community stays close-knit and trustworthy. Each member can invite others they know and trust.

Is there a membership fee?

Membership is free! We believe in keeping costs minimal for our community. There are no annual fees or subscription costs to join and participate in the vacation rental exchange.

How do I list my vacation rental?

Once you're a member, simply go to your dashboard and click 'Add Property'. You'll need to provide photos, property details, amenities, house rules, and availability. Our team may review your listing to ensure it meets our quality standards.

How far in advance can I book?

You can book properties as far in advance as the owner has set their availability. Most members set their calendars 6-12 months ahead, but this varies by property owner. Check each listing's calendar for specific availability windows.

Can I cancel my booking?

Yes, but cancellation policies vary by property owner. Each listing shows the specific cancellation policy. Some owners offer flexible cancellation, while others may have stricter policies during peak seasons. Always check the cancellation terms before booking.

How do I request a booking?

Browse available properties, select your dates, and click 'Request Booking'. The property owner will receive a notification and can approve or decline your request. You'll be notified once they respond, typically within 24 hours.

What if my booking request is declined?

If your request is declined, you'll receive a notification and can look for other available properties. Owners may decline due to various reasons like maintenance, personal use, or other bookings. Don't take it personally - keep exploring other great options!

Are there any fees?

Stripe charges a small processing fee (typically 2%) to cover payment processing but we have no other additional fees. This fee is much lower than traditional vacation rental platforms since we're focused on trusted relationships.

What payment methods are accepted?

We accept all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), PayPal, and bank transfers. All payments are processed securely through our payment system to protect both property owners and guests.

When do I get paid for my property bookings?

Credits are added to your account immediately after a successful stay. You can use these credits for future bookings or request a payout to your bank account. Payouts typically process within 2-3 business days.

What are my responsibilities as a property owner?

As a property owner, you're responsible for maintaining your property, providing accurate descriptions and photos, responding to booking requests promptly, and ensuring your property is clean and ready for guests. You should also communicate clearly with guests about check-in procedures and house rules.

How do I set house rules?

When listing your property, you can set specific house rules such as no smoking, pet policies, quiet hours, maximum occupancy, and any other guidelines important to you. These rules will be visible to potential guests before they book.

What if something breaks during a guest's stay?

Minor wear and tear is expected, but if significant damage occurs, our platform provides a resolution process. Guests can report issues through the platform, and we'll help mediate between both parties to reach a fair solution.

Can I block dates for personal use?

Absolutely! You can block any dates you want to use your property personally. Simply go to your property calendar and mark those dates as unavailable. This ensures your property won't be bookable during your personal stays.

How do you ensure safety in the community?

Our platform is built on trusted relationships between friends and family. All members must be invited by existing members, creating a network effect of trust. We also provide identity verification, review systems, and support for dispute resolution.

What if I have a problem with another member?

Our support team is here to help resolve any issues between members. You can report problems through the platform, and we'll work with both parties to find a fair solution. In rare cases of serious issues, we may remove members from the platform.

Are there insurance protections?

We recommend that property owners maintain their own vacation rental insurance. Our platform provides basic protections through our terms of service, but comprehensive property and liability insurance should be maintained by property owners.

How do reviews work?

Both guests and property owners can leave reviews after a stay. Reviews are only visible after both parties have completed their reviews or after a 14-day period. This encourages honest feedback while protecting the community from retaliatory reviews.