Strapped for Cash? 7 Surprising Ways You Can Earn Money Around the Home

If you're looking for ways to earn some extra cash, you might think that a part-time job or freelance gig is the only way. However, you'd be surprised at the number of things you have lying around your home that could potentially make you money.

Whether it's old clothes, electronics, or even plants, there are plenty of ways you can earn money without ever leaving the comfort of your own home. 

In this post, we'll explore some of the most surprising ways you can make money around your home.

Rent Out Your Parking Space

If you live in a busy area with limited parking space, you could earn some extra cash by renting out your driveway or parking spot. Some websites allow homeowners to list their parking spaces for rent, which drivers can then search and book online. 

Depending on the location, you could earn anywhere from a few extra dollars a week to hundreds of dollars a month.

In addition to renting out your parking space, it's important to keep it well-maintained. Make sure the area is always free of debris and that you have clear signage indicating that the space is available for rent. This will help you attract customers and ensure a smooth rental experience. 

Additionally, providing renters with easy access to the space (such as a keyless entry system) can greatly increase customer satisfaction.

Finally, be sure to check with local authorities to ensure you are compliant with any applicable regulations. These simple steps will help ensure your parking space rental is as successful and profitable as possible!

Sell Your Old Clothes

If you're looking to declutter your closet, consider selling your unwanted clothes online. Many websites allow you to sell your clothes to others, either for a fixed price or through an auction-style bidding process. 

You can make a surprising amount of money selling clothes, especially if you have designer items or pieces that are still in good condition.

Rent Out Your Outdoor Space for Events

If you have a large backyard or outdoor space, you could earn money by renting it out for events like weddings, birthday parties, or even fitness classes. 

There are websites that allow homeowners to list their spaces for rent, and you can set your own prices and availability. Depending on the size and location of your outdoor space, you could earn hundreds or even thousands of dollars per event.

To maximize the potential of your outdoor event space, you may want to consider investing in a few amenities. For example, portable furniture like chairs and tables can be helpful for hosting parties or dinners. 

If your space is large enough, you may also want to invest in lighting fixtures such as string lights or a stage. These things will help make your space more inviting and appealing to potential renters. 

You can take your outdoor event space from ordinary to extraordinary with just a few simple upgrades!

Sell That Old Scrap Car

If you have an old car that's been sitting around gathering dust, it may be time to sell it. Many scrap yards, such as Texas Junk Car Buyer, will pay good money for cars that are no longer running, as the parts can be reused or recycled. 

Scrap yards usually pay by weight, so the amount you get will depend on the size and type of car. It's also a great way to get rid of a car without having to pay for expensive repairs.

Sell Your Unwanted Electronics

If you have old electronics lying around your home, like laptops, smartphones, or gaming consoles, consider selling them for cash. 

Many websites will buy your old electronics from you and pay you in cash or gift cards. You could earn a surprising amount of money by selling your old devices, especially if they're still in good working condition.

Once electronic devices have been used for a few years, they can start to wear down and become unreliable. If you're considering selling an older model of a device, it may be wise to do some research first. 

Generally speaking, anything over five years old is likely too outdated to be resold in today's market.

It's important to check the specs before attempting to sell your device, as this will help you determine the true value of it. 

Additionally, it may be beneficial to look up similar devices online and compare prices before making a decision. This way, you can ensure that you get the best price for your unwanted electronics.

Grow and Sell Plants

If you have a green thumb, consider growing and selling plants from your home. You can sell plants online or even set up a roadside stand to sell them locally. 

Depending on the type of plants you're growing and the demand in your area, you could earn a decent amount of money from this side hustle.

Host a Garage Sale

This is a classic way to declutter your home and make some extra money. Go through your closets, garage, or basement and gather all unnecessary items that you no longer use. 

On a Saturday morning, post signs in your neighborhood advertising that you're hosting a garage sale. It's an excellent way to get rid of excess clutter and still make money.

There are plenty of surprising ways you can earn money around your home, from renting out parking spaces to selling your unwanted clothes and electronics. 

By taking a closer look at the things you have lying around your home, you could potentially earn hundreds or even thousands of dollars without ever leaving your house. 

So if you're looking to earn some extra cash, consider giving these home-based money-making ideas a try!

5 Reasons Why Home Solar Power Is a Wise Long-Term Investment

As a homeowner, it can be hard to decide which investment you should make to ensure that your money is spent wisely. 

Of course, there are many options out there but one of the most beneficial and future-proof investments any person can make is investing in their own solar power system for their home. Solar energy offers an array of advantages and returns on investment far greater than those of other types of traditional sources. 

This blog post gives an overview as to why installing home solar power is such a wise long-term decision.

Save Money on Utility Bills with Solar Energy

As energy costs continue to rise, it's becoming more important than ever to find alternative sources of power. Luckily, solar energy provides a sustainable solution that not only helps the environment but also saves you money on utility bills. 

By harnessing the power of the sun, solar panels can generate electricity for your home, reducing your reliance on expensive grid power. Plus, many programs offer incentives and tax credits to those who switch to solar energy, making it an even more attractive option. 

By investing in solar energy, you can not only save money in the long run but also contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

Add Value to Your Property through Solar Panel Installation

As a homeowner, you're always looking for ways to add value to your property. And one of the best ways to do so is by installing solar panels. 

Not only will they reduce your energy bills, but also provide a clean, renewable energy source that is good for the environment. Installing solar panels can also increase your property value, making it a smart investment in the long run. 

With government incentives and tax credits, the cost of installation is becoming more affordable than ever before. Plus, the sleek and modern look of solar panels can add a visual appeal to your home's exterior. 

So why not consider adding value to your property and investing in the future by installing solar panels?

Reduce Carbon Emissions and Help the Environment by Utilizing Renewable Resources

As global concern for the environment grows, there is a greater emphasis on finding ways to reduce carbon emissions and turn towards renewable energy sources. 

One of the most popular and beneficial ways to do so is by installing solar panels. Solar panels convert energy from the sun into electricity that can be used to power homes, businesses, and even entire cities. 

Utilizing solar energy can reduce your dependence on non-renewable sources like coal and oil, which contribute significantly to carbon emissions. Not only does this help the environment, but it can also save homeowners on energy bills in the long run. 

The benefits of using solar panels are clear, and it is an investment that can have a positive impact for years to come.

Final Thoughts

By investing in solar power technology, homeowners can enjoy numerous benefits over time. In addition to immediate savings on electricity costs and increasing the value of their property, selecting solar power also allows for potential investment incentives such as tax breaks and subsidies. 

Furthermore, the attractive presence of solar panels can make your home much more marketable to buyers, thus generating a higher resale price down the road. To top it off, taking advantage of renewable resources like solar energy helps reduce carbon emissions into the atmosphere—an added bonus that everyone can benefit from! 

With so many advantages, it's no wonder why more people are turning to home solar power – it’s truly a wise long-term investment decision!

When Is Filing for Bankruptcy a Good Idea?

Filing for bankruptcy can be a difficult decision, but it can also provide a fresh start for those struggling with debt. It’s important to understand the different types of bankruptcy and when it’s a good idea to file.

This blog will provide you with information on when filing for bankruptcy may be a good idea and how to determine if it’s the right choice for you.

Losing Control of Your Finances

One reason to consider filing for bankruptcy is if you’ve lost control of your finances. This could be due to a job loss, illness, divorce, or other reasons. 

If you’ve fallen behind on your bills and can’t catch up, bankruptcy can be a way to get a fresh start. Filing for bankruptcy can help stop creditor harassment, wage garnishment, and foreclosure.

High Debt-to-Income Ratio

Another reason to file for bankruptcy is when you have a high debt-to-income ratio. This means that your monthly debt payments are more than your monthly income. 

If you’re struggling to make ends meet and can’t see a way out of your debt, bankruptcy can help. It can eliminate unsecured debts like credit card bills and medical bills, providing you with a clean slate to start over.

Legal Judgments or Wage Garnishment

If you’ve been sued by a creditor and have a legal judgment against you, or if your wages are being garnished, filing for bankruptcy may be a good idea. 

The bankruptcy process can help stop or eliminate these collection actions, giving you the opportunity to get back on your feet financially.

Too Much Debt to Pay Off

If you have too much debt to pay off on your own, bankruptcy may be a good option. Some bankruptcies can forgive most unsecured debts, including credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans. 

Some bankruptcy allows you to pay your debts over three to five years, giving you a more manageable payment plan.

You’ve Tried Other Options

If you’ve tried other options, like debt consolidation or credit counseling, and they haven’t worked, bankruptcy may be your best choice. When other options aren’t helping you get out of debt, bankruptcy can provide a fresh start and a chance to rebuild your credit.

Final Thoughts

Filing for bankruptcy can be a difficult decision, but it can also be a fresh start. 

If you’ve lost control of your finances, have a high debt-to-income ratio, are facing legal judgments or wage garnishment, have too much debt to pay off on your own, or have tried other options without success, bankruptcy may be a good option for you. 

However, filing for bankruptcy should only be considered after careful consideration, and it’s best to consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney to ensure you fully understand the process and your options.

5 Ways to Make Downsizing Homes Profitable Instead of Painful

As we age, we realize that the home we’ve been living in for years may no longer suit our needs. Perhaps it’s too big or has become too difficult to maintain. The thought of downsizing may initially seem painful, especially if the memories of our family are attached to it.

However, downsizing can be an opportunity to simplify our lifestyle and even increase our financial security. 

Read on for five ways to make downsizing homes a profitable experience rather than a painful one.

Start Early

If you’re considering downsizing your home, start planning early. Start by decluttering and sorting through the things you no longer need or want. 

Downsizing means letting go of things you’ve held onto for years, so it’s best to start sorting things out at least a few months before you move.

Create a Floor Plan

Once you have found a new place, create a floor plan. This will help you determine what furniture will fit in the new house and what won’t. 

By creating a picture of how your furniture will fit, you’ll save yourself time and money as you won’t be moving items that are not required.

Reevaluate Space Elsewhere

If you’re moving into a new space that has a smaller garage space, consider what tools or vehicles you still need. A new home can bring many expenses, including repairs and maintenance, so selling an older car can easily offset those expenses. 

Not only will you free up garage space, but you might also earn some extra cash. If you’re holding onto a car for an adult child, consider either selling it to them or getting cash for junk cars before you move.

Utilize a Professional Mover

Hiring a professional mover to help move and downsize is an excellent idea. Not only will they take care of packing and moving, but they might also provide storage solutions for items you can’t fit in your new home. 

Hiring a professional will help reduce the stress of moving and ensure that your goods are transported safely and efficiently.

List Your Home with a Professional Realtor

If you want to sell your current home, it is best to list it with a professional Realtor. A realtor will help you to maximize your home's value and market your home to potential buyers. 

They can also give you insights into the real estate market, which can be beneficial when searching for your new home.

Final Thoughts

Remember, downsizing can be a challenging process. However, you can make it a profitable and stress-free move by being prepared, creating a floor plan, decluttering, utilizing a professional mover, and selling an older car. 

By following these tips, you can trade the pains of downsizing for profits and a new, more relaxed lifestyle. So, downsize and discover a more comfortable and simplified living experience.

Reasons To Contact a Lawyer When Setting Up a Will

If you’re interested in protecting your family’s financial future, setting up a will is the most important thing you can do—especially from the age of 50 and beyond. 

However, this isn’t something that you want to tackle alone. Although DIY will-making options are available, the risk of making a mistake is not worth it when dealing with such an important document. 

We will explore five essential reasons you should contact a lawyer when setting up a will and the benefits these professionals can bring to the process.

Ensuring Legal Compliance

Though many individuals view their will as a list of requests for after their passing, it is, at the end of the day, a legal document. 

As such, several rules and regulations govern its creation. An experienced lawyer will be well equipped to help you understand and navigate the complexities of these laws. 

A lawyer will ensure your will follows all legal requirements, avoiding any potential challenges or disputes that could jeopardize your intentions.

Personalized Advice for Complex Situations

Estate planning often involves intricate financial, family, and tax situations. Having a lawyer’s guidance can help you make the best possible decisions for your unique circumstances. 

For example, a lawyer can advise you on issues like dividing your assets among children from multiple marriages, setting up trusts for minors, or managing tax implications.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

DIY wills can result in avoidable errors and unclear instructions that lead to confusion or disputes. Some common mistakes people make during this process include forgetting assets, using improper phrasing, and even forgetting to choose an executor. 

When you work with a lawyer, they will catch any mistakes, loopholes, or contradictions to ensure your will is clear and comprehensive. 

This will minimize the risk of your estate falling into any legal complications, making the process smoother for your loved ones during a challenging time.

Regular Updates and Reviews

Another important reason to contact a lawyer when setting up a will is that they’ll keep your documents up to date. Laws related to estate planning may change over time, impacting your will’s validity or appropriateness.

A lawyer can monitor any such changes and keep you informed. They can also regularly review and update your will as your life circumstances change, such as a new marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or significant financial shifts.

Peace of Mind for You and Your Family

Finally, having a professional lawyer draft your will provides peace of mind for both you and your family members. You can be confident that your will covers all critical aspects, remains legally binding, and accurately represents your wishes. 

Your family will also appreciate the reassurance that they’re following your precise intentions and can rely on the lawyer for guidance if necessary.

Working with a lawyer to set up your will is an investment in your family’s future that offers numerous benefits. Take this essential step in estate planning to ensure your loved ones are well taken care of. 

Contact a reputable lawyer today, and have peace of mind knowing your will is in expert hands.

The Steps to Take for a Better Financial Future

We all dream of a safe and secure financial future, but achieving that dream requires effort, actions, and smart financial planning. You can take several steps to improve your financial situation and secure your future.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to make a change, following these six steps will help you achieve your financial goals. 

In this blog, we’ll discuss each step in detail to help you create a roadmap for a better financial future.

Create a Budget

Creating a budget is a crucial step in achieving financial stability. By closely examining your income and expenses, you can assess your financial situation and identify areas where you can make cuts. 

Separating expenses into categories will help you understand exactly where your money is going and allow you to spot areas where you can save. With a budget in place, you'll be able to see the bigger picture of your finances and set clear goals for your future. 

By keeping track of your spending, you'll be able to make informed financial decisions and prioritize your expenses to achieve your financial objectives. 

With discipline, persistence, and regular evaluation, creating and sticking to a budget can be a powerful tool in improving your financial well-being.

Reduce Debt

Managing personal finances can be a never-ending juggling act, especially when dealing with debt. Among the various options for managing debt, a common approach is to reduce debt as soon as possible. 

High-interest debts, such as credit card debt, can accumulate quickly, adding significant strain to your finances. Start by making minimum payments on all your debts to tackle these debts effectively. 

Then, allocate any extra funds toward the debt with the highest interest rate. Although it may take time and careful budgeting, this strategy can help you reduce your debt more quickly and save you interest charges. 

By prioritizing paying off high-interest debts, you can take control of your finances and build a more secure financial future.

Look into Financial Planning

If you're looking to gain control over your financial future, seeking the help of a financial planner may be the answer you've been searching for. 

By enlisting the expertise of a trained professional, you can take a step closer to reaching your financial goals. Whether you're looking to invest, plan for retirement, protect your assets with insurance, or simply learn how to manage your money more efficiently, financial planning can offer valuable guidance and advice. 

Making smart and informed financial decisions can have a significant impact on your long-term wealth, and entrusting a professional to guide you along the way can help you avoid costly mistakes. 

A financial planner can equip you with the tools and knowledge necessary to achieve financial success by creating a financial blueprint tailored specifically to your needs.

Save for the Future

Saving for the future is a crucial financial action that can provide a sense of security and peace of mind. One option is to regularly contribute to a company’s retirement plan or a personal IRA. 

Although small contributions may not seem significant, they have the potential to accumulate and grow over time through the power of compound interest. By starting early and contributing consistently, individuals can increase their chances of achieving their long-term financial goals and enjoying a comfortable retirement. 

It’s never too early to start planning for the future and taking steps towards financial security.

Invest Wisely

Investing can be a powerful way to expand your financial portfolio and invest wisely to plan for the future. While risk is involved, the key to successful investment is to conduct thorough research and make informed decisions. 

This involves careful consideration of diversification, which means finding a balance between various investment types and looking at the company or organization behind any investment opportunity. 

Ultimately, a wise investor is someone who takes a cautious and well-informed approach, allowing them to build a solid financial future.

Review and Adjust

Maintaining financial health requires a diligent review and adjustment of your budget and investment portfolio. Regularly reassessing your objectives, expenses, debts, and investments can help keep you on track toward your financial goals. 

Tracking your progress along the way will also enable you to stay accountable and motivated. Failing to review and adjust your financial plan could result in missed opportunities or unnecessary risks that could negatively impact your financial health. 

It's important to seek professional guidance or research reputable sources when making any changes to your financial strategy.

Final Thoughts

Improving your financial future requires taking several steps toward responsible spending, saving, and investing. By following these six essential steps, you can equip yourself with the tools to achieve your financial goals. 

Remember to review and adjust your plan regularly, making changes as necessary to stay on track. With a little effort and planning, you can look forward to a safe and secure financial future.


Author Bio: Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from West Jordan, Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max.