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Your idea for a house-swapping app within a closed network of friends and friends-of-friends falls into a category with minimal existing market signals. With only one similar product identified, confidence is low regarding the viability of this specific approach. The low engagement (average of 0 comments on the similar product) suggests limited immediate traction in existing solutions. Since there are no use or buy signals, it's difficult to assess the overall demand. This isn't necessarily bad, it just means that there is no clear market and you might have to create it, which is extremely risky. Before investing significant resources, proving that a genuine need exists is critical. It might be that people don't see the value in swapping within a limited circle.

Recommendations

1. Given the 'Minimal Signal' category and the lack of market validation, your initial focus should be on directly engaging with your target audience to gauge interest. Post in relevant online communities or social groups where your potential users (friends, community groups) might be and ask about their experiences with house swapping or concerns about finding trustworthy options. Frame it as a problem you are trying to understand, not necessarily pitching a solution.
2. Before building the app, offer to manually facilitate house swaps within your network. This could involve connecting people, coordinating logistics, and gathering feedback on the pain points and desired features. Treat this as a concierge MVP; by actively participating, you can validate the core value proposition and gather valuable insights for product development.
3. Create a short, compelling explainer video outlining the concept of your app and the benefits of swapping with trusted connections. Focus on the security and peace of mind aspects. Host it on a platform like YouTube or Vimeo and track viewership to assess interest. If people aren't watching, it's a sign that the value proposition isn't resonating.
4. To gauge commitment, consider asking interested individuals for a small, refundable deposit to join a waiting list for the app. This demonstrates genuine interest and can provide early validation of your idea. If people are unwilling to put down a small deposit, it indicates a lack of conviction.
5. Set a clear timeframe (e.g., 3 weeks) to find a minimum number of genuinely interested people (e.g., 5). If you're unable to reach this target, it's a strong indication that the demand isn't sufficient to warrant further investment at this stage. Be prepared to pivot or reconsider the idea altogether.
6. Explore alternative target markets. Are there specific groups (e.g., digital nomads, remote workers, families with young children) who might be more receptive to the idea of house swapping within a trusted network? If so, tailor your messaging and outreach to these specific segments.

Questions

1. What are the biggest perceived risks or hesitations that your target audience has about house swapping, and how can you address these concerns within the app's design and functionality?
2. How will you ensure trust and safety within your closed network of friends and friends-of-friends, and what mechanisms will you put in place to resolve potential conflicts or damages?
3. What is your plan for scaling the network beyond your immediate circle of contacts, and how will you maintain the element of trust and security as the user base grows?