The pandemic has also played a role in driving interest in home swapping, as more people have become interested in domestic travel and are looking for affordable and unique accommodation options. Additionally, the rise of remote work has allowed individuals to have more flexibility in their travel plans, making home swapping a more attractive option.
The concept of home swapping has become increasingly popular in recent years, with companies such as Love Home Swap, HomeExchange, and GuestToGuest offering similar services. However, Kindred differentiates itself from its competitors by focusing on building a community-driven platform that emphasizes human connection and travel. By fostering a sense of trust and personal connection between its members, Kindred aims to create a more seamless and enjoyable home swapping experience.
San Francisco-based start-up, Kindred, has raised $15 million in a Series A funding round. The company, which was founded in 2021 by Justine Palefsky and Tasneem Amina, operates a members-only home swapping network that allows users to exchange their homes and apartments with peers in vetted, off-market properties. Since its private beta launch last year, Kindred has received more than 20,000 membership applications, primarily from primary residences rather than investment homes.
The funding round was led by New Enterprise Associates, with participation from existing investors Andreessen Horowitz, Caffeinated Capital, Bessemer Venture Partners, and Outset Capital, and new individual investors such as Evan Moore and Dylan Field. The funds will be used to scale community-driven home swapping in North America and Europe, with plans to expand across core cities in North America, including New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, San Francisco, Mexico City, and more, and launching in several major European cities later this year. Additionally, Kindred will invest in its mobile app, build out its matchmaking technology, and help members discover new home swap opportunities.
With its recent funding, Kindred is well-positioned to continue growing its platform and expanding its reach. By prioritizing community and personal connections, Kindred offers a refreshing alternative to traditional travel and accommodation options, making it a compelling option for those looking for a unique and authentic travel experience.