Friends of mine have been doing home exchanges for years. They put everything of value or "hands off" in secure storage. They don't worry about someone damaging things because they are in the others homes, too. The reviews on a bad "guest" would prevent them from ever participating again. My friend likes the fact that she doesn't even have to empty the refrigerator of all those condiments. LOL They have traveled to Italy, France, Spain, England, Portugal, Bulgaria. Last year they even went on a sailboat in the Greek islands. Came complete with a crew. They've been gone for 3 months at a time. They have a condo in Playa del Carmen, MX that they exchange so demand is high and she can be picky about who she lets exchange. I don't think I would like it, but they love it!