Making your home listing more inclusive and responsible: our tips!

Creating your home listing is an important step: it should be as detailed as possible, and above all, transparent. Taking the time to add precise information (about accessibility, amenities, the local area etc.) allows your guests to imagine themselves there, and determine if your home meets their needs. A clear listing creates a relationship of trust between members, while helping travelers make more responsible choices.

1. Clearly describe your home’s accessibility

Housing accessibility is often a sensitive issue. However, it is primarily a question of transparency and respect for community members who have specific needs, like those with reduced mobility, the elderly, or parents who travel with a stroller etc.

By clearly stating the accessibility of your accommodation, you allow everyone to plan their stay with peace of mind and avoid misunderstandings upon arrival. Furthermore, being honest about accessibility limitations should not be seen as a deterrent: it's a sign of trust.

Details to include in your home listing:

• Presence (or absence) of an elevator.
• Number of steps to access your accommodation.
• Door width if relevant.
• Bathroom type (walk-in shower, high bathtub, step-over…).
• Room layout (steep stairs, mezzanine, bunk beds).

Examples of how this looks in practice:

A home with constraints:
"Apartment located on the 3rd floor without an elevator. The staircase is quite narrow and can be tiring with strollers or heavy luggage. Bathroom with a high bathtub."

A home that might be suitable:
"Single-story house with walk-in shower and step-free access from the street."

2. Promote public transport options near your home

Transportation plays a significant role in the environmental impact of a trip. Providing specific information about alternatives to flying or driving to get to your home (and ways in which your guests can explore the surrounding area) can encourage more sustainable choices and reassure your exchange partners.

By facilitating a car-free stay, you encourage more responsible exchanges.

Some useful information to include in your home listing:

• Nearest train station or bus stop.
• Walking time from your home.
• Bicycle rental options.
• Shops within walking distance.
• Nearby hiking trails or bike paths.

Examples of how this looks in practice:

"Bordeaux train station is a 12-minute walk away. Trams connect to the city center in 10 minutes. We can easily get around on foot or by bike."

"Bus stop 300 meters from the apartment, with services to the historic center every 20 minutes."

3. Describe the impact of tourism on your region

Some destinations are very popular at certain times of the year. This can be a constraint for those seeking peace and quiet, and especially those who wish to avoid overcrowding.

Writing a few lines about the impact of tourism on your region allows guests to choose the right time according to their preferences.

You can also mention if your neighborhood is particularly quiet: many members will find this appealing.

Examples of how this looks in practice:

"The village is very lively in July and August. If you are looking for more peace and quiet, May, June and September are more suitable times."

"The main beach is very crowded in the summer, but several coves accessible on foot are quieter."

4. List the equipment and responsible actions

Don't hesitate to highlight the amenities or practices that make a difference in your home, and which could be pleasant for guests during their stay. For example:

• The presence of ceiling fans.
• Whether your home is well insulated, which helps maintain pleasant temperatures in both summer and winter.
• Whether guests can help themselves to your vegetable garden, etc.

Examples of how this looks in practice:

"The house is equipped with wood heating."

"The house is well insulated, which makes it very pleasant in the summer during the heatwave."

5. Make your home listing more inclusive

Each property has its own characteristics and may not necessarily be suitable for all travelers. Some members travel with young children, others with a pet, while some people have mobility constraints.

By using filters such as "child-friendly" and "pet-friendly", and adding some details to your description, you will help members determine if your home is suitable for their needs. This also helps to avoid any misunderstandings and unpleasant surprises.

Examples of how this looks in practice:

"The house is well-suited for families: we have games, children's books, and a garden with a swing."

"We have a cat that lives in our home: this may be important information for anyone with allergies."

6. Encourage local and responsible exploration of your region

You know your neighborhood, your local producers, your favorite walks and more. This information is invaluable to your guests. It encourages local tourism that is rooted in community life, and is less focused on the "must-sees" that many tourists have on their itineraries.

For many members, this approach can also be additionally persuasive when considering your home rather than someone else’s. Without going into detail in your home listing, you can mention the presence of a welcome booklet containing your tips and advice.

Example of wording:

“We’d be delighted to share all our favorite local spots: farmers’ markets, short walks, and neighborhood cafes that we particularly love. Don’t hesitate to ask!”

Conclusion: A responsible home listing that is true to the spirit of sharing, which is inherent in HomeExchange.

Taking the time to write a detailed and honest description not only allows you to avoid misunderstandings, but also encourages stays that are respectful of your home and local neighborhood and the environment.

By sharing some additional information about accessibility, transport, equipment or even household habits, you help your guests to better prepare and easily adopt the right practices during their stay.

A responsible home listing is, above all, clear, transparent and benevolent!