On HomeExchange, you can do two types of exchanges: reciprocal exchanges (with or without GuestPoints) and non-reciprocal exchanges (with GuestPoints). As a host, you can also choose to exchange your entire home or just a private room (with access to common spaces).
Here is more information about each type of exchange:
Reciprocal exchanges
I host the person whose home I am staying in (which makes me both the host and the guest).
This exchange can either be simultaneous (where both my exchange partner and I stay at each other's homes at the same time) or non-simultaneous (where my exchange partner and I stay in each other's homes on different dates).
For reciprocal exchanges, I can choose to do them without GuestPoints, in which case, the number of GuestPoints per night needs to be modified to 0 GP for both stays. Alternatively, I can choose to have a reciprocal exchange with GuestPoints, in which case the calculation is done automatically based on the value of both homes.
Non-reciprocal exchanges
The host of the home I am staying in is not interested in coming to my home, so I offer a predetermined amount of GuestPoints per night for their hospitality. I can also accept GuestPoints if I am not interested in staying at my guest’s home.
Exchanges with a private room only
Private room exchanges are when a host member welcomes an exchange partner and they both agree for the host to stay at home (as if a friend was coming to stay :). This can be organized as either a reciprocal or a non-reciprocal exchange.
Your exchange partner will stay in your spare bedroom and will share your common areas (kitchen, living room....), all according to a mutual agreement before the exchange is finalized.