Swimply's CEO says the app is bringing the gig economy to pools — and helping cash-strapped homeowners make money

The gig economy is making its way into backyards across North America and Australia with Swimply, an innovative app that connects pool owners with those looking to rent them. Launched in 2018, Swimply now boasts approximately 15,000 pools available for booking, according to CEO Bunim Laskin. Recently, the company secured $10 million in funding from Norwest Venture Partners to fuel its growth. The platform allows homeowners to monetize their swimming pools by offering them for hourly rentals, echoing the shared economy concepts popularized by services like Uber and Airbnb. Laskin highlighted a shift in consumer behavior, noting that while people increasingly seek unique experiences, they still appreciate the benefits of personal assets—like having a private pool. For many homeowners, renting out their pool serves as a crucial source of income, especially given the rising costs associated with homeownership, including high mortgage rates and increasing association fees. With in-ground pools averaging a construction cost of $65,000 and annual maintenance expenses reaching between $3,000 and $6,000, many owners are justifiably questioning why they should pay for something that goes unused. Laskin pointed out that most Swimply hosts are casual users who typically channel their rental income back into maintaining their pools. Some even turn their pools into small businesses, offering additional amenities like barbecue packages and spa services. As Swimply looks to expand, Laskin noted that there’s significant potential in the U.S., where approximately 10.7 million pools exist. The company primarily relies on word-of-mouth marketing to attract new pool owners, but is also exploring creative strategies to draw in customers, including the introduction of a summer pass for regular users. Additionally, Swimply has recently started offering hot tubs for rent and is considering adding features like swimming lessons and various recreational facilities, such as basketball courts and music studios. Laskin envisions a future where Swimply becomes a platform for all types of spaces that enhance enjoyment and enable people to explore their passions.