Hombies FAQ's
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Quick Access Guide
General Questions
Specific Home Exchange Questions
Specific House Swap Questions
General Questions
1. General Home Exchange & House Swap Questions
What is Hombie?
Hombie is a premium home exchange and house swap platform that connects like-minded members who value quality, trust, and flexible travel. It allows you to stay in beautiful private homes without paying nightly accommodation costs.
Who can join Hombie?
Anyone with a well-presented home and a genuine interest in home exchange, house swapping or house sitting can join. The platform is designed for members who appreciate comfort, care, and respectful travel.
Is Hombie suitable for luxury travel?
Yes. Hombie is built for travellers who prefer space, privacy, and refined living. Most of the homes on the platform offer a level of quality that goes beyond traditional accommodation.
What is a home exchange?
A home exchange is a way to travel by staying in another member’s home while they stay in yours, or by using points earned from hosting. It gives you access to beautiful homes without paying nightly accommodation fees.
How does a home exchange work?
You list your home, connect with other members, agree on dates, and confirm your stay. You can exchange directly or use points for flexible, non-simultaneous travel.
Is home exchange really free?
Your accommodation is free because you are staying in another member’s home. The only costs are your membership and your normal travel expenses such as flights, transport and usual living expenses such as food etc.
Who is home exchange suitable for?
Home exchange suits couples, families, retirees, and professionals who value comfort, space, and authentic travel experiences. It is ideal for those who enjoy staying in high-quality private homes.
Do I need a luxury home to join?
No, but your home should be well-presented, clean, and comfortable. Quality and care matter more than size. Each property must meet the platform’s quality and presentation standards. There is a minimum point level a home must meet to qualify for the members referral program.
Can I exchange if I rent my home?
Yes, provided your rental agreement allows for home exchanges. Always check with your landlord or property manager first.
Can I join if I travel only occasionally?
Absolutely. Many members travel once or twice a year and still enjoy the benefits of hosting and earning points.
What types of homes can be listed?
Homes can include houses, apartments, villas, and townhouses. Each property must meet the platform’s quality and presentation standards.
Can I exchange internationally and domestically?
Absolutely, you can exchange locally, nationally, or internationally. The platform allows you to explore destinations all over the world.
How long does it take to find an exchange?
This depends on your location, flexibility, and the time of year. Well-presented listings and flexible dates usually receive faster responses.
2. Trust, Safety & Security
Is home exchange safe?
Yes. Home exchange is built on trust, transparency, and community standards. Members choose who they exchange with and communicate directly before confirming any stay.
How are members verified?
Members complete a verification process that may include email, phone, and identity checks. Additional trust measures such as reviews etc are used to maintain a high-quality community.
Can I choose who stays in my home?
Always. You have full control over accepting or declining any exchange request. Nothing is confirmed without your approval. You are also able to view their listing allowing you to accept or decline.
What happens if something is damaged?
Members are expected to treat every home with care and respect. In the rare event of damage, it is handled directly between members, supported by platform guidelines.
Do I need special insurance?
Most members rely on their existing home insurance, but you should always check your policy to confirm coverage for home exchanges. If not included, talk to your insurer.
How do reviews work?
After each exchange, both parties can leave a review. Reviews build transparency and help maintain quality across the platform. Reviews are a built in trust feature.
Can I decline a request without penalty?
Yes. You are free to decline any request that does not suit your home, schedule, or comfort level.
What happens if a member cancels last minute?
The platform provides guidelines to support fair outcomes. If the host or guest cancels within 7 days prior to the start of the exchange or swap, points will still be transferred. Cancellations are recorded and may impact a member’s reputation. Hombie will work with the guest to find an alternate home exchange or house swap.
Is my personal information protected?
Yes. Your personal data is securely stored and only shared when necessary to complete an exchange. Privacy is treated with the highest priority.
3. Finding & Matching Accommodation
How do I find a home to exchange with?
You can search listings by location, dates, and preferences, then contact members directly through the platform to discuss a potential exchange.
Can I message members before committing?
Yes. You are encouraged to communicate, ask questions, and ensure the exchange feels right before confirming.
How do I know if a listing is genuine?
Listings include verified profiles, photos, and reviews from past exchanges. These features help ensure authenticity and trust.
Can I host without travelling?
At this stage Hombie is not for stays where the owners are still in the home unless it is a dual occupancy situation. This may change in the future. Let us know if you want this feature.
Can I travel without hosting first?
You can do this only once. The platform is a two way system where you also host to receive future points.
4. Hosting
Do I need to prepare my home before hosting?
Yes. Your home should be clean, well-presented, and ready to welcome guests, just as you would for friends or family. Expect it to be as clean as you left it on your return
What should I leave for guests?
Fresh linen, towels, basic household items, and clear instructions help guests feel comfortable and settled.
Do I need to provide linen and towels?
Yes. Providing clean linen and towels is part of offering a quality and welcoming stay.
Do I have to leave my car?
No. Leaving your car is optional and only arranged if both parties agree in advance. If you are thinking of leaving your car there is information in the members knowledge hub and an agreement template in the Resources section
Do I need to provide food?
No. Guests are responsible for their own food unless you choose to offer a welcome gesture.
Should I provide a house manual?
Yes. A simple house manual with instructions for appliances, Wi-Fi, and local tips creates a smooth experience. There is a sample agreement in the knowledge hub and a house manual template in the Resources Section of the members Dashboard.
Can I lock off private areas?
Yes. You can secure any rooms, cupboards, or personal spaces you wish to keep private.
Can I set house rules?
Absolutely. House rules help protect your home and ensure clear expectations for both parties. In fact house rules or a house manual is a must. You will find example house manuals and templates you can use in the knowledge hub and members resource section of the website.
5. Travelling as a Guest
What should I expect when staying in someone’s home?
You can expect a private, fully equipped home with the comfort of real living. It offers far more space and privacy than a traditional hotel room. It should be left clean and tidy with fresh towels and linen.
What if the home isn’t as described?
This is rare due to reviews and verification. If it occurs, contact the host first and follow platform guidelines if further support is needed.
What if something breaks during my stay?
Inform the host immediately and work together on a fair solution. Most issues are resolved quickly and respectfully. Replacing the broken item will help you receive a better review which is important for your next stay.
Can I bring children or pets?
Yes, only if the host has approved it in advance. Always confirm suitability before confirming your stay.
Can I bring extra guests?
Only with the host’s approval. The number of guests must match what was agreed upon.
What are my responsibilities as a guest?
You are expected to treat the home with care, follow house rules, and leave the property as you found it. Respect and responsibility are central to the community.
6. Cancellation & Problems
What happens if a booking is cancelled?
Cancellations are handled according to the platform’s guidelines to ensure fairness for both parties. Clear communication is always encouraged. You will find our cancellation policies here.
What if the other member doesn’t respond?
Response times can vary, especially during busy periods. You are free to follow up or move on to another listing at any time.
What if there is a dispute?
Most issues are resolved directly between members through calm and open communication. Clear agreements and house manuals help prevent misunderstandings.
How are disputes resolved?
Disputes are usually resolved between members. If needed, the platform provides guidance based on its policies to help both parties reach a fair outcome.
Can my membership be suspended?
Yes. Membership may be suspended or reviewed if a member repeatedly breaches platform rules, cancels unfairly, or behaves in a way that impacts trust within the community.
Any breach of Hombies Terms and Conditions which are posted on this website will result in Cancellation of the members membership and loss of points.
Membership Costs
What does membership include?
Membership gives you full access to the platform, including creating a listing, searching homes, messaging members, earning and using points, and participating in exchanges.
Are there any hidden costs?
No. There are no nightly accommodation fees. Your only costs are your membership and your personal travel expenses such as flights, transport and living costs etc.
How does payment work?
Membership fees are paid securely through the platform using approved payment methods.
Is there a refund policy?
Refunds are managed in line with the platform’s terms and conditions.
8. Account and Listings
How do I create a listing?
You simply follow the guided setup process to add your home details, photos, availability, and house rules. There is an autosave function so you can come back multiple times to complete your listing.
A complete, well-presented listing attracts more exchange opportunities.
How do I edit my listing?
Your listing can be updated at any time from your account dashboard. This includes photos, descriptions, availability, and preferences.
How do I update my availability calendar?
You can manage your calendar directly from your listing on your dashboard to reflect when your home is available for hosting or exchange.
Can I have more than one home listed?
Yes, it’s a great way to quickly increase your points tally. Each property must meet the platform’s quality standards.
How do I delete my account?
You can request account deletion by contacting support who will do this for you. Any active exchanges or swaps must be completed before closing your account.
What makes a strong listing?
High-quality photos, honest descriptions, and clear house rules build trust. Well-presented homes receive faster and more frequent requests.
Can I edit my personal profile?
Yes. Your profile can be updated at any time to reflect your travel preferences, lifestyle, and hosting style. Update through your listing page.
What photos should I show on my listing?
Show quality photos of your home and property. Living areas, outside areas, and sleeping quarters. The more the merrier.
Do not show photos of the street view of your home for security reasons.
Who can see my contact details?
Your contact information is only shared with members once an exchange has been agreed upon, protecting your privacy.
Specific Home Exchange FAQ's
1. Getting Started with Home Exchange
How is home exchange different from house swapping?
Home exchange uses a points system that allows non-simultaneous travel. House swapping is a direct, one-for-one exchange at the same time.
Is home exchange really free?
Your accommodation is free because you stay in another member’s home. Your only costs are membership and normal travel expenses.
Who is home exchange best suited for?
It is ideal for travellers who value flexibility, comfort, and premium homes. It suits couples, families, retirees and those who travel at different times of the year.
2. Hombie Points System
What are Hombie points?
Points are your personal travel currency on the platform. You earn them by welcoming other members into your home, and you spend them to stay in beautiful homes around the world without paying nightly accommodation costs.
They give you complete freedom to travel when it suits you, without needing a direct or simultaneous exchange. If you had enough points you could travel the world all year long if you wanted to.
How do I earn points?
You earn points by hosting guests, completing exchanges, and participating in platform activities. Hosting is the primary way to build your balance. You can also earn points every time you refer a new member to Hombie.
How do I use points?
You use points to book stays in other members’ homes, villas or apartments. This gives you freedom to travel when and where it suits you.
Do points expire?
Points remain valid while your membership is active. You can accrue them year after year if you wish. They do not expire as long as you stay a paid member.
Can I buy points?
Points are primarily earned through participation and hosting, ensuring fairness and balance within the community. Any purchasing options are set by the platform and may change over time.
The best way to obtain points is to reach the upper membership levels where you are given points as a bonus.
Can I transfer points?
Points are designed for personal use only and are linked to your account. Transfer options, if available, are managed by platform rules. This may change in the future.
What happens to my points if I cancel my membership?
Points can only be used while your membership is active. Unused points are forfeited when the yearly membership is not paid for.
How many points does a stay cost?
The number of points required depends on the home, location, size, and demand. Each listing clearly shows the points needed per night.
Are points guaranteed to keep the same value?
No. The points system may be adjusted over time to ensure balance and fairness across the platform. Values can increase or decrease as the community evolves. Any changes will be notified on a next year basis.
3. Flexibility and Travel Options
Can I travel without hosting first?
Yes, but only once. This allows you to start travelling immediately. You will need to host to obtain further points to keep travelling.
Can I host without travelling?
Yes. Many members host first to earn points and use them later.
Can I exchange without travelling at the same time?
Yes. Points make non-simultaneous travel easy and flexible.
Can I exchange with multiple homes?
Yes. You can stay in different homes and destinations as often as you like.
Can I use home exchange for short stays?
Yes. Home exchange works well for weekend breaks and short trips. We will have a section specifically for weekend breaks coming soon.
Can I use home exchange for long stays?
Yes. Many members use it for extended holidays or longer lifestyle stays.
House Swap FAQ's
1. Getting Started with House Swaps
What is a house swap?
A house swap is a direct exchange where two members stay in each other’s homes at the same time. It is a simple, one-for-one way to travel without accommodation costs.
How does a house swap work?
You find another member, agree on dates, and confirm the swap together. Both parties stay in each other’s homes for the agreed period on the same dates.
How is house swapping different from home exchange?
House swapping is a direct, simultaneous exchange. Home exchange uses points and allows flexible, non-simultaneous travel.
Is house swapping really free?
Yes. There are no nightly accommodation fees because you are swapping homes. Your only costs are membership and normal travel expenses.
Who is house swapping best suited for?
It suits travellers who enjoy simple, balanced exchanges and like travelling at the same time as their swap partner. It is ideal for planned holidays. It suits many members as they feel there home is being looked after by someone they trust a little more.
2. Matching and Agreements
Do both parties need to travel at the same time?
Yes. A house swap is based on both members staying in each other’s homes at the same time.
Do both homes need to be similar in value?
Not necessarily. What matters most is that both parties feel the exchange is fair and comfortable.
Can we swap for different lengths of time?
Yes, as long as both parties agree. Flexibility can be built into the arrangement.
What should we agree on before confirming a swap?
You should confirm dates, number of guests, house rules, and any special arrangements. Clear communication avoids misunderstandings.
Is there a house swap agreement or contract?
The agreement is confirmed through the platform’s messaging and booking system. When you book you are agreeing to each other’s arrangements and house rules. This keeps everything documented and transparent.
Can we video call before confirming?
Yes. Many members choose to video call to build trust and clarify expectations.
Can I decline a swap request?
Yes. You are always in full control of whether you accept or decline a request. If you decline a request there doesn’t have to be a reason and the other party just moves on to their next choice.
3. Hombie Points and Special Situations
Do we transfer points for a house swap?
Yes you do. Originally it was planned not to swap points for house swaps, just a straight swap of homes. Some people were disadvantaged by this as their home was worth more points per night than their guest.
So we changed it to make it a fairer system for all. Now you swap homes and transfer the points which sometimes are similar but often not.
How does the point system work?
See the points section above in the home exchange area. Or visit our Hombie points page which explains everything in detail.
Can I house swap both internationally and domestically?
Yes. You can swap homes both within your own area, state, country and internationally, making house swapping ideal for local getaways as well as global travel experiences.
Can I swap my holiday home?
Yes, holiday homes are often perfect for house swapping, provided they meet quality standards.
Can I house swap for short stays?
Yes. Short swaps such as weekends or short holidays are common.
Can I house swap for long stays?
Yes. Many members arrange swaps lasting several months.
Can I house swap during peak travel seasons?
Yes, but availability is more competitive. Planning early increases your chances of success.
Can I house swap if my home is rented?
Yes, as long as your rental agreement allows it. Always check with your landlord or property manager first.
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