Home swapping platform offers Philly residents and World Cup visitors low‑cost lodging alternative

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- With major events such as the World Cup, the MLB All-Star Game and America 250 expected to draw large crowds to Philadelphia this summer, some residents are turning to home swapping as a way to avoid congestion while welcoming visitors from around the world.

The Taplin-Kaguru family of Center City is preparing to host the Salinas family from Ecuador through a platform called Home Exchange.

The two families have never met in person, but they will trade homes: the Salinas family will stay in Philadelphia to attend a FIFA World Cup match, while the Taplin-Kagurus will vacation at the Salinas' home, located about a five-minute walk from the beach.

Nora Taplin-Kagurus showed Action News how she is getting ready for her home swap.

"We have a lot of labels out so people know where things will be, and I think I'm going to add more," she said.

Home Exchange members pay a $235 annual fee that allows unlimited swaps and covers unlimited swaps and 24/7 customer support.

"The first step was, you know, making our profile and kind of like explaining where we are in the city, that we have great restaurants and museums and everything right nearby us," added Taplin-Kagurus. "Then you can see other people who are interested in coming to your area. You can actually filter by people who are in the areas you're interested in, who are interested in coming to where you are."

The arrangement offers more than just lodging.

The Salinas family has agreed to care for Tux, the Taplin-Kagurus' cat, and both families will have access to each other's household comforts, including kitchen appliances, children's toys and games.

"We have two kids, our house isn't always perfect, there's lots of toys, and then we realize that could be a perk for someone coming to us and a perk to us going to them," said Taplin-Kagurus.

Home Exchange also offers a points system for those who prefer not to do a direct swap.

Members can earn points and redeem them for stays in other homes worldwide. The platform lists more than 550,000 homes in 155 countries.

"There are two different types of exchanges. The reciprocal, where you would come to my home, and I would go to yours. We also have a guest point system, which adds a lot of flexibility," said Jessica Poillucci with Home Exchange.

Poillucci said the service is designed to be low-risk. Members must provide proof of address, identification, a phone number and an email, all of which are verified.

She said 99.7% of exchanges proceed without issues, and protections are in place if a host cancels, a home is misrepresented or damage occurs.

Many participants also choose to meet virtually before finalizing a swap.

The Taplin-Kagurus said the experience has already fostered connection.

"I've talked a lot with the mom and the other family. We exchange tips about fun things to do with the kids in both places. There's been a little bit of a cultural exchange just having so many conversations with this family."

Other homeswap platforms exist, and users are encouraged to read reviews and fine print before committing.

Unlike short-term rental listings, home exchanges do not require a city license in Philadelphia.

As summer approaches, families like the Taplin-Kagurus said the arrangement offers a practical and personal alternative to traditional travel accommodations - and a chance to make new connections along the way.