If you read the Related Article, bear in mind it's simply a Holiday Swap media release.
Features per HolidaySwap.com:
- Swap any place to sleep - from just a bed on up - with anyone anywhere in the world for just $1
- Bio page
- Search engine with filters
- Ratings and reviews
- Breakage-deposit option
- App is free, no subscription fees
- "Admin fee" for actual swap is $1/bed/night
- Any swap is doable if both parties agree
So: it sounds like no money changes hands between the swapping property owners; only from the owners to Holiday Swap, at the rate of $1/bed/night based on how the property was entered into the app. If I swap my 1-bedroom for your 2-bedroom for a week, then I owe Holiday Swap $7 and you owe them $14.
Sounds simple, but I think I'd want to hear more about the breakage-deposit option before handing my place over to someone who has only had to invest $14, and none of it with me.