has anyone ever house swapped? what is the deal?

[petitmaman]

We are thinking of swapping houses with friends of ours who own a property similar in value. (permenantly, not just for a holiday).
obviously we would get a solicitor to draw up the paper work but does anyone know how it would work? would either/ both of us have to pay stamp duty?
thanks for any help.

I think what reality is describign is a part-exchange, is that right? They are quite common at the moment it seems, the EAs we've seen this week have all asked us if we would consider part-exing.

I think a straight swop might have different rules, I'm not sure though.