96' Honda Accord smoking through exhaust when starting (engine cold). Changed the PCV valve no change, also went as far a changing the valve guide seals (big dollars) no change. What would be more practical to do? Change the piston rings, engine swap (looking at a H22 JDM), or just buy another car

I would rebuild the engine, assuming the rest of the car is in good shape. How many miles are on the car? A well-maintained Honda can easily go 300,000 miles.

Afterwards, start using full synthetic lubricants in the engine and transmission:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563-12.html#post2162069

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563-12.html#post2295563

They offer a margin of safety you haven't had. Change synthetic engine oil and filter every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Change the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles.

That what I kind of figured, I just needed to hear (read) that from somebody else. How much do you think that would cost? I have 29800+/- miles on the original engine. Thanks for your help. You'll helped me in the past thanks.

$3,000, depending upon what's wrong.