Also, keep in mind the following notes for a happy housing experience overseas:

Host families open their homes for commercial reasons, like a boarding house.
Family housing and student residences are selected by on-site staff.
Treat your host family with respect - they are not your servant or maid.
Do not expect things to be like they are back home. You will need to adapt.
Do not expect too much from your host family. You are expected to be independent.
Do not use the phone, laundry or television without permission.
Host family may do your laundry for a fee. Ask how much it would cost.
Bring your own towel or buy one there when you arrive.
Hot water is expensive in some countries. Use it conservatively.
Communicate with your host family about everything.
Use your language skills.
Adapt to the local meal times and to the local food.
Be courteous. Do not wake up the host family when coming home late, etc.
Learn the local culture.
Do not become the criticizing tourist.
Apartment/student flats are simply furnished.
Expect to share a bathroom.
Do not expect large-sized apartments or other facilities.
Overall, do not expect too much. Housing in other countries can be very different.