With RIDEF Home Exchange you hit the target

STEP I. INTRODUCTION

It is usually a good idea to prepare a letter of introduction, which is mailed to each exchange prospect.

Remember that the more letters you send the better your chances of an exchange. Don't limit yourself to one or two contacts. Home exchanging is a do-it-yourself program that relies upon the efforts of and communication between all participants.

Your initial letter should contain information about yourself, your home and your surroundings. It is a good idea to include a copy of your own Ridef listing form. You can expand upon the basic listing information, explaining why your home and area would be enjoyable for your guests. Indicate what your travel plans are, describe your travel party, and explain why you are interested in their home.

Your letter should include information about the dates of your expected travels, and whether or not you are flexible. Every exchange offer that you receive should be acknowledged, even if your response is a simple "not interested at this time." It is always a good idea to keep a file of potential contacts, as you might be interested in their offer in the future. Photographs of your home and surroundings greatly enhance and personalize communications. We recommend them!

SAMPLE LETTER OF INTRODUCTION:

Our home is close to the beach in Del Mar, California. There is much to do and see here, and we're sure that your family would enjoy your stay here. Our home is set up to accommodate small children, and we also have a Toyota station wagon that is available for use. Del Mar is located 15 miles north of San Diego on the coast, and our weather is sunny and warm during the summer. We have enclosed some photographs of our home and family, and look forward to hearing from you soon. Thank you for considering us for your exchange.

STEP II. CHECKLIST OF IMPORTANT DETAILS

1. Be specific about the number of adults and children staying in the home. Include expected visitors.
2. Who is responsible for the utility bill. Unless there are unusual circumstances, it is customary for each home owner to pay their own bill
3. Car exchange. Be sure to check with your insurance agent to see if you are covered in case of an accident.
4. Car maintenance. Have a specific agreement covering who pays for oil & gasoline, and any repairs.
5. Where are the house keys located? It is usually best to leave the keys with friends or neighbors who can greet your guests upon their arrival. Make sure to have duplicate keys.
6. Emergency repairs. Have a specific agreement in the event of any repair. Be sure to telephone the home owners and discuss the situation in the event of any repair over $50.00
7. Telephone calls. Be sure to leave a detailed log of all long distance phone calls that you make. It generally is easier to settle this bill by correspondence after the exchange is completed.
8. Be specific about the care of pets, gardens, plants and anything that requires special attention during your travels.
9. In the event of a cancellation, have a contingency plan!
10. What linen will be provided. Who is responsible for laundering?

STEP III. PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR GUESTS.

1. Prepare your home as for any guest--make it clean, pleasant and ready for their arrival. Leave plenty of drawer and closet space for your guests. Stock cupboards and refrigerator with essentials so they can begin their visit in comfort.
2. Leave notes in appropriate places on how to operate household appliances. Household maintenance procedures should be spelled out in writing, along with instructions regarding pets, swimming pools, gardening, mail, etc.
3. Clearly identify location and use of cleaning materials, kitchen utensils, towels, sheets, and other household necessities.
4. Leave a list of important telephone numbers next to the telephone; police, fire, ambulance, doctor, dentist, plumber, babysitters, and neighbors.
5. Provide a list of local stores and services; grocery, restaurants, pharmacy, etc.
6. Make sure your automobile is well serviced if you are exchanging cars.
7. Store in a safe place any antiques or personal valuables.
8. Make sure you have adequate homeowners insurance.

STEP IV. BEFORE YOU DEPART FOR HOME.

1. Replace food essentials to move-in condition.
2. Launder and restore linens as they were given to you.
3. Leave the furniture in its original place.
4. Don't forget a thank you note or a small gift of appreciation.
5. If you depart earlier than expected be sure to notify the neighbors.
6. Final check-out...Lights off, Heat off, Doors locked?
7. Don't forget to return the keys!

STEP V. CONCLUSION.

When you are screening your choices in the beginning phase of your search, we want to reemphasize the importance of repeated conversations with your prospective guests. It is important for you to inquire about references--either from previous exchange families, or personal and professional references. You are under no obligation to accept an exchange, and we urge you to use your common sense and intuition during your selection process.

Remember that if you are considering a rental offer, that this is a different type of transaction from a home exchange, and that particular care should be taken regarding the monetary aspects of this type of arrangement.

Once again, happy exchanging, it will change your life!