SnapGoods is one of the latest start-ups that bases its business model around allowing people to share, exchange and rent goods in a local setting. Among others are NeighborGoods and ShareSomeSugar.
The common thread of all these sites is that access trumps ownership; consumers are offered ways to share goods instead of having to buy them.
Instead of laying out $500+ for an ipad, through one of these sites, you could rent one for a lot less
For a better understanding of this business model, check out: