Superior search engine.
We have the premiere search system on the Internet. In addition
to conducting simple searches by clicking on maps, a user may add
numerous search parameters. For more detailed searches, we offer
the "Simple and Advanced" searches which permit a user to completely
fine-tune a search. In all cases, the search results may be sorted
according to the user's preference. By default, the resulting listings
are sorted alphabetically by the nearest city but a user may also
sort them by geography which is typically the Postal Code or by
the last time they were updated which corresponds to the "Hot List"
function.
Smaller percentage of USA listings.
Most home exchange organizations are top-heavy with listings in the USA which means a member in the USA has far more competition chasing fewer listings abroad. HomeLink's smaller percentage of USA listings make it much easier for residents of the USA to find an exchange in Europe or any other foreign country.
Breadth of our database.
Many organizations claim to have the largest number of listings
but these databases are often comprised of free or old listings
which are of little value other than to boost apparent numbers. HomeLink does not display stale listings and shows the member's expiration date in the bottom corner of every listing. Other databases contain listings which
are other than home exchange. The HomeLink database is completely
current with members who are seeking an exchange; while we do have
a few rental listings the overwhelming majority are for home exchange.
Offices world-wide.
HomeLink has offices in major countries world-wide. If you do have
a problem when on an exchange, you can call the local office all
of which have English-speaking staff. They can't solve every problem
but they certainly can give you very good advice and the advantage
of local knowledge. Many web-based home exchange organizations do
not even list a telephone number or mailing address.
Printed Directories.
HomeLink has printed Home Exchange directories for over fifty years and many members favor them as a way to browse the listing looking for exchange partners. These are members who may well be lost to the Home Exchange community if the books were not available which means a larger, more diverse, database of members for you to choose from.
Server-based messaging system.
HomeLink has created an entirely web-based system which allows members to contact each other without relying on conventional emails which are often intercepted by spam-blocking systems. This system also provides complete privacy for your email address and allows you to check your messages from anywhere in the world using a web-browser. All messages are threaded so you can readily see a complete history of your communication with another member.
On line home exchange agreement form.
HomeLink has an on-line interactive exchange agreement form which allows the exchanging parties to firm up the details of the exchange and electronically sign the agreement.
Languages.
The HomeLink web site is presented in the language of the viewer. Currently we employ all the major European languages in addition to Chinese, Turkish and other lesser known European languages.
Discussion Forum.
A lively discussion forum is available to members which includes advice refined over decades of use and embraces topics such as car insurance, preparing your home, etc.
Experience.
HomeLink
has been in business continuously for over fifty years serving the
home exchange community.
