Hostshare VS Kindred: What are the main differences?
In an age where home-sharing is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to hotels, two platforms stand out with distinct approaches: Hostshare and Kindred. Both platforms focus on optimizing the use of properties, but they cater to different user needs and offer unique value propositions. Whether you're a homeowner looking to maximize value out of your STR, or a traveler searching for reasonably priced trips, understanding the differences between these platforms will help you decide which one suits your lifestyle.
Hostshare: Maximizing value out of your vacation rental; Supercharged home swapping
Hostshare.co is designed for STR / Vacation rental homeowners and investors who are looking to get even more value of their property. The platform provides each host an opportunity to book last minute, free travel nights (minus the cleaning fee) in exchange for offering up last minute, open nights at their home. Unlike other hoem swapping platforms, Hostshare allows calendars to be synced with multiple platforms and PMS systems like Lodgify, Hostaway, Hostfully, Hospitable, Airbnb, VRBO, etc. Hostshare is built around the idea of a trusted, values-driven community, where members feel safe exchanging homes within a network of like-minded individuals.
Hostshare is also designed with emergencies in mind, positioning itself as a platform that can quickly mobilize available homes in the wake of disasters, offering immediate relocation options to those in need. This feature makes it particularly useful for property owners in areas prone to natural disasters, as they can leverage their listings to help displaced individuals while still generating income.
Who is Hostshare for?
- STR property investors and homeowners: If you're looking to maximize the value out of your STR, Hostshare is ideal, giving you 21 free travel nights to use at ay other home on the platform.
- STR-focused individuals: Every home on the platform is professionally managed by an Airbnb host.
- Emergency responders: The platform provides unique opportunities for those looking to assist in disaster situations while earning income.
Key Benefits:
- 21 free travel nights per listing that is added to use at any other home on the platform. 🏠
- Easily sync calendars with your PMS or Airbnb - adding no hassle to your already busy life of hosting guests!
- Offers unique opportunities to travel and save tons of money while doing so ✈️
Kindred: A Trust-Based Home Exchange Network
Livekindred.com, on the other hand, open to the general public, operates on a home-swapping model. Kindred connects homeowners who are looking to trade homes for a short period, allowing them to experience new places without the typical costs associated with vacation rentals. Kindred is built around the idea of a trusted, values-driven community, where members feel safe exchanging homes within a network of like-minded individuals.
Unlike Hostshare, Kindred is not focused on rental income but instead on offering flexible, affordable travel opportunities. Members swap homes on a reciprocal basis, often developing personal relationships with other members in the process.
Who is Kindred for?
- Travelers: If you’re someone who loves to explore new destinations but prefers avoiding hotels or high-cost vacation rentals, Kindred is a great option, although these homes are not professionally managed by hosts.
- Community-focused individuals: The platform is centered around trust and personal connections, creating a sense of belonging and shared values.
- Homeowners with flexibility: Those who are willing to swap homes periodically rather than rent them out for income will benefit most from Kindred.
Key Benefits:
- Affordable travel through home exchanges.
- Fosters a sense of community and trust between members.
- Focused on meaningful, personal travel experiences rather than profit.
Pricing Difference 💰:
Hostshare:
- Pay an annual membership fee of $395. That's it. That one payment gives you a years worth of access to free stays all over the world (minus the cleaning fee)
- Pay a one time cleaning fee per stay.
Kindred:
- No membership fee's.
- Host to earn credits. Earn 1 credit / night that you host a Kindred guest. Use 1 credit / night to stay at another home.
- Service fee's (starting at $60 / stay)
- Pay a one time cleaning fee per stay.
The main differences:
With Hostshare -
- You get more value of your STR by getting 21 FREE travel nights per listing that you add. 🎉
- You get 21 free travel nights AS SOON as your listing is live. No need to host to earn credits. (Go live with your listing and book a free trip the SAME day - no other home swapping platform offers this!)
- No service fee's per trip.
- Every home is professionally managed.
- Connect with likeminded hosts around the world.
With Kindred -
- You prefer affordable, community-driven travel experiences.
- You value trust and personal connections in your travel arrangements.
- You’re more focused on exploring new destinations than earning more value from your property.
Conclusion:
Both Hostshare and Kindred offer unique opportunities for homeowners, but they serve very different purposes. Hostshare is for STR hosts and owners looking to get even more value out of their short term rental home, while Kindred is for travelers in the general public, looking to explore the world without breaking the bank, all while fostering a sense of community. Choosing the right platform comes down to whether you are an STR host or not.