It's not unusual for the Lesbian and Gay community to engage in a little husband and wife swapping now and then. The documentary film, 'Truth About Gay Sex' , quotes that 70% of gay male relationships are on an open basis. If we're willing to lend our partners, what about our homes too?

Concerns

This may not be as frightening as you first think. There are Gay and Lesbian home swapping organisations, which specialise in placing your home within a directory of others.

You then select a property you like the look of in another part of the world, and arrange to stay at their home, whilst they stay at yours. It couldn't be simpler or easier, with you both getting a low cost break for a couple of weeks. These organisations allow home swapping, hospitality exchange, room rentals and home rentals.

But, lets rewind a second. What if you arrange to lend your home to a thief or psycho? Or even worse, if the opposite number's have far lower standards of cleanliness than you? Fortunately these situations are "few and far between" says Scott Coatsworth & Mark Guzman of the International Home Exchange Network for Gays and Lesbians. (MCSC).

Trust

They continue, "Home swapping relationships have to be based upon mutual trust and honesty. Like any relationship, they begin with trusting each other. In this case you primarily develop a trust, through respect of privacy, belongings and the home that you've created. They've got to trust that you do the same with their home.

This is a mutual situation and a specific application of a golden rule. I'll take care of your home as well as I want YOU to take care of mine."

MCSC also recommend that honesty about you, your home and neighbourhood - all elements that will affect a person's vacation, should be disclosed. It's important to build and maintain the trust right from the start.

Information to exchange

It's important to ask and answer the right questions before you commit to swapping:

1. Size of Accommodation
2. Sleeping Arrangements
3. Noise Levels
4. Any Pets
5. Local Shops / Supermarket
6. Local Amenities
7. Travel Connections
8. Nearest City or Holiday Resort
9. Local Gay Life
10. Local Attractions

Swapping Facts

There are quite a few pro's and con's you should consider before embarking on your swap:

1. By using a network of Gay and Lesbian home swappers, you're not going to need to hide that nude painting, or move any of your possessions relevant to your sexuality. Your home can continue to be itself.
2. You should contact your insurer and inform them of the arrangement. They're unlikely to have a problem as it's just like lending your property to friends.
3. If you have specific valuables that you are worried about, then lock them away, or take them to a friend or relative for the duration.
4. Swapping property will save you money on accommodation and therefore give you more spending money whilst abroad.
5. The most popular house swappers are Europeans, North Americans and Australians. Properties in South America, Caribbean and Asia are likely to be scarcer.
6. Although you should expect your home to be treated exactly as you would, you need to be prepared for some mild wear and tear, as your home is being used, and accidents do happen.
7. You may end up away from the main tourist areas in a country, and get to meet the neighbours. This can be a good way to experience the local culture.
8. Membership of MCSC costs only $40 for three years membership. They have property exchanges available in Canada, the Bahamas, Mexico, the Philippines, America and Europe.

Find out more by visiting www.gayhometrade.com

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