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Hello everyone,
Whether you’re taking advantage of a long weekend to go on an exchange this May, or simply dreaming about your next trip, welcome to the new edition of The Community Gazette!
This month, we’re sharing a few handy platform updates and a bunch of community-packed ideas: post‑exchange memos, gift inspiration, and smart home‑prep tips.
And of course, there’s room for your stories too, plus an open mic for listings near cycle routes.
Enjoy reading!
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You can now share your listing link in one click, with a button that’s more visible than before and, above all, more convenient.
More convenient, because when you click this new “Share” button, you now have the choice to:
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We’re moving to Google Maps and introducing a custom-designed map aligned with the HomeExchange identity.
You’ll notice a refreshed map style (colors, readability, points of interest, etc.) in key areas like home search, listing pages, and more — while keeping the experience smooth and familiar, with no expected functional changes.
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1. Digital audit (website and apps): completed
We carried out a full accessibility audit of our website and apps, to better meet the needs of people living with visual impairments.
Result: a list of concrete recommendations, which we’re currently prioritizing to define what we will improve in 2026 and 2027.
2. Service audit (exchange journey): in progress
In parallel, we are exploring the accessibility of the exchange experience as a whole: the real barriers, the moments in the journey that can be difficult, and the improvements that would make a real difference.
Feedback from the community: especially members living with disabilities, is at the heart of this work. The insights will directly help steer our product priorities for the coming years.
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Want to spice up your stories? Head over to Instagram and type “HomeExchange” when you’re adding stickers.
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👉 To follow all new platform features, head to the forum.
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👇 When Robin writes a special post‑exchange memo
👉 See and react to all these tips
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👇 What home improvement members are doing because guests are coming?
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👇 Any recommendations for Jadine who just joined HE?
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👇 Issues with key handovers raised by Anja
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👇 Nathalie is looking for tips for a long-term trip
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👇 Sean wants advice about cleaning
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👇 Home prep hacks from Sarah, a first-year exchanger
https://www.instagram.com/p/DX4pV6cidhh/?img_index=1
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🎁 A small gift for your guests or hosts?
Small thank-you or welcome gifts are always a thoughtful touch that HomeExchangers really appreciate.
We’d love you to share what you usually bring for your guests or hosts in this Facebook post.
You might even find a bit of inspiration there too ;)
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Would you like to share your exchange tips with the rest of the community? Get other members’ opinions? Share experiences?
👉 Join the Facebook group and take part in the discussions
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