On this CBS News segment see how families in the States are looking to swap houses - recognising the difficulty of selling properties the traditional way during a recession. You can see how people are using websites to list their houses for a permanent swap; saving on realtor fees and even getting closer to the asking price.  But as the news item points out, you have to be flexible and try not to be too picky!

See how one couple in the States successfully swapped a house in Nevada with a house in Tennesee, to be closer to their family. "It was really painless and solved both our problems", comments one of the swappers. Lessons to learn?

Tips when swapping your house

• Don't be picky
• Do your homework
• Have a simultaneous closing