You’ve been getting up early weekend after weekend to go to open houses and have spent hours looking at online listings. You’ve finally found a place that you like, but before you make an offer, one good idea is to do some research on what to look for when buying a home.
Most people don’t want to buy a home that is going to require a lot of work or be difficult to finance because it’s structurally unsound or unsafe. The home might look great on the surface, but it’s recommended that a buyer order the proper home inspection(s) to see if it actually measures up prior to lifting any property contingencies. It can be stressful or even derail the home purchase to find out that you’ll need to make all sorts of costly renovations that make you go over budget or have to look for renovation financing vs. traditional financing, after you’ve worked hard to find that dream home.
Signs Your Dream Home Could Be a Nightmare
There are a lot of things to look for when buying a home. But these are 10 common home inspection red flags that would put even your dream home on the buyer-beware list because of the home repair costs and stress involved in fixing the issues. (Passing the home inspection will also be an important part of getting through the real-estate purchase contract process.) Consider these factors as you continue your search for your new nest, and especially if you’re a first-time homebuyer, lean on professional inspectors for help.
First-time homebuyers can prequalify for a SoFi mortgage loan, with as little as 3% down.
1. Structural Problems
If there is a problem with the foundation or load-bearing walls in your new home, structural repairs involving health and safety issues could derail your home loan by making the property ineligible for financing, or could wind up costing thousands of dollars. But structural problems aren’t just expensive to fix, they could also be considered unsafe — which is why they should be at the top of any list of things to check when buying a home.
Look for major cracks in the foundation, problems with doors closing, door frames not being perfectly rectangular, or walls or floors that seem to sag. You’ll want to spend the money for a professional home inspection. If the inspection reveals there is a larger issue, a structural engineer’s report may be able to provide additional insight. 💡 Quick Tip: When house hunting, don’t forget to lock in your home mortgage loan rate so there are no surprises if your offer is accepted.
2. Water-Damage Woes
The biggest cause of rot and mold is moisture. So if your potential new home has leaking pipes or a roof that lets in water, it won’t just be expensive to replace your roof or find where the leak is coming from — the leak could have already created other problems.
Water stains and mold are home inspection red flags. Not only can mold have implications for your health, it could indicate a bigger problem with the house. If you see either of them, look into the cause of the stain, because a new roof or new plumbing could set you back a significant amount of money. Dry rot and related problems like mold can also fall under health and safety issues and, as a result, affect the home’s eligibility for most types of home mortgage loans.
3. Poor Drainage
Poor grading and drainage can potentially cause huge problems with the foundation or basement of your home, so it should be high on your list of home inspection red flags. When it comes to bad drainage, things to look for when buying a home can include but are not limited to: pooling water around the foundation; leaking in the basement; gutters that are blocked or overflowing; and soil being moved by water in any flower beds around the home. While there are ways to fix poor drainage and improper grading if it’s minor, you might struggle with larger drainage problems if the home is in a low-lying area.
4. Bad Plumbing
The last thing you want is for your sink to spring a leak. Plumbing problems could have an array of causes, including improper installation or older pipes that need to be replaced or are leaching metals into your water supply. Plumbing that regularly leaks could cause water damage, which, as noted previously, could have some pretty serious consequences (like mold and rot). The home inspector will generally test the plumbing system, but as you look at houses, be observant and try running all the faucets and flushing the toilets. Keep an eye out for any signs of possible water damage and be aware of any funky smells.
5. Pests
There are a few ways to avoid buying a pest-infested home, such as having a home inspector look for pests. If the general home inspection calls out pest issues, it is recommended to go a step further and request a pest inspection report from a licensed pest inspector.
If the inspector finds signs of bugs, it might be possible to request that the seller fix the infestation before you close the house. Sometimes, pest infestation can mean a significant discount, which may be appealing to some buyers. But getting rid of certain kinds of bugs can be very costly, complicated, toxic, and even require you to leave your home while the fumigation takes place. So the discount may not actually be as rosy as it seems. Lenders do not usually close on a traditional home loan with a serious pest issue because it may present a health and safety issue.
6. Electrical Problems
A general home inspection will cover basic electrical items, but some buyers opt for an additional electrical inspection. Depending on when the home was built, there could be improper or even dangerous wiring throughout the house. That could affect eligibility for home financing due to health and safety issues, increase the fire risk in your home, or affect how you budget for buying the house.
7. Neighborhood Troubles
You might have found a beautiful home, but what if the location isn’t ideal? If your home is in a neighborhood that has a high number of vacant properties, a high crime rate, or a poorly rated school system, your investment might not pay off. Ask your real estate agent and neighbors about the neighborhood, stop by at different times, search for the area’s crime statistics, and check out the reputation of local schools. 💡 Quick Tip: Not to be confused with prequalification, preapproval involves a longer application, documentation, and hard credit pulls. Ideally, you want to keep your applications for preapproval to within the same 14- to 45-day period, since many hard credit pulls outside the given time period can adversely affect your credit score, which in turn affects the mortgage terms you’ll be offered.
8. Homeowners Association Problems
If you’re moving into a development with dues, you’ll want to know more about the homeowners association (HOA). Your lender will likely require you to obtain a completed Homeowners Association Questionnaire, and once this form is completed, it could answer many of the questions you may have, such as: How much are the HOA fees? What are the rules around making changes to your property? Is there any pending litigation against the condo association? Can you rent out your place or use it as an Airbnb when you go on vacation? Before you put in an offer, it’s a good idea to find out the answer to these or any other issues of importance to you and your family.
9. DIY Improvements
Watch out for shoddy renovations. If the house looks like it has undergone a recent facelift, have a close look at the workmanship. If there are visible shortcuts, there may be other areas of the house that weren’t properly renovated that could cause you headaches in the future. Check them carefully and make sure the major improvements or additions were done with the proper permits.
10. Older Windows
Older windows could translate into higher heating and cooling costs for your home. Moisture leakage can cause mold issues over time. Those costs add up, so you’ll want to add windows to your list of things to look at when buying a home. On your house tour, look for windows that stick, have discoloration around the indoor casing, or are warping. Updating windows (or replacing them completely) could be costly.
The Takeaway
In certain situations, a buyer may consider making an offer on a house even with one or two of these home inspection red flags. But before committing to a property that needs TLC, you’ll want to add up what the potential repairs may cost. Doing the math now could mean fewer financial surprises when you move in. And in some cases, it may be possible to negotiate with the seller so that major issues are addressed before the closing.
Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% – 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It’s online, with access to one-on-one help.
SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.
Photo credit: iStock/Jitalia17
*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.
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SoFi Mortgages Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
Looking for under the table jobs? When you’re looking for ways to earn extra cash, under the table jobs can be a route to take. These jobs typically pay with cash only. These can be part-time jobs, side hustles, or even a full-time career. Now, with under the table jobs, the person paying you is…
Looking for under the table jobs?
When you’re looking for ways to earn extra cash, under the table jobs can be a route to take. These jobs typically pay with cash only.
These can be part-time jobs, side hustles, or even a full-time career.
Now, with under the table jobs, the person paying you is not paying taxes. But, you still should pay taxes, as it is the law in the U.S.
Key Takeaways
Under the table jobs are a flexible way to earn cash without formal employment.
You can tap into many different job fields, from childcare to handyman services, to make extra money.
If a person pays you in cash, it’s still important to report that income to the IRS. If you don’t, it could be tax evasion, which is illegal.
Best Under the Table Jobs
If you’re looking for ways to earn cash, there are plenty of jobs that you can do under the table.
Some popular options include:
As a handyman, you can fix things around a house, like replacing a bathroom mirror or broken doors. If you’re good with tools and fixing things, this can be a great way to make some money.
If you like sharing what you know, tutoring might be a good side gig for you. You can help kids with their schoolwork or even teach music if you play an instrument.
Babysitting is a classic way to earn cash. You watch kids while their parents are away and might even help them with homework.
Love being outside? Try landscaping or mowing lawns. You can make yards look nice and make good money.
For those who love animals, dog walking or pet sitting are fun ways to make money. Spend time with pets, take them for walks, and make sure they’re fed.
Continue reading below to see the full list and learn more about under the table jobs.
1. Reseller
Resellers buy items and sell them for a higher price to make a profit.
You can find things at low prices from garage sales, thrift stores, or online clearance deals. Then, you sell them in places like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or even to friends and family.
You can sell things like clothes, electronics, toys, and books that people want. It’s usually a good idea to choose items you know a lot about because it makes it easier for you to know a good deal when you see one.
I personally have many friends who are resellers, and I was a reseller in the past as well (before I started blogging full-time!). It can be a great way to make cash income.
Whether you’re looking to make just a little extra cash or if you want a full-time job, this is a good option to look into.
I recommend watching the free webinar Turn Your Passion For Visiting Thrift Stores, Yard Sales & Flea Markets Into A Profitable Reselling Business In As Little As 14 Days to learn how to make money by flipping items.
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This free workshop will teach you how to get into the flipping business. It will teach you how to resell furniture, electronics, appliances, and anything else you can find.
2. Childcare
A popular cash job is babysitting. Most moms and dads need good babysitters, and they’re happy to pay a fair amount for someone to watch their kids while they go out for the evening.
Babysitters make a good income these days – typically around $20 per hour.
If you think it might be tough to earn money this way, don’t worry – it’s possible. Just posting a simple message on your Facebook page could connect you with someone who needs a babysitter.
Note: I recommend making sure you check with your city or state before you begin. Also, make sure that your home is safe (if you watch children in your own home) and that you are CPR certified.
Recommended reading: 29 Best Stay At Home Jobs
3. Home and yard maintenance
When you’re looking for a way to make some extra money, you can do home and yard maintenance jobs. These are tasks people don’t have time to do themselves (or they simply don’t like to do!).
For example, if you like being outdoors, landscaping work might be perfect for you. Jobs in this area include lawn mowing, trimming hedges, and planting flowers.
If you prefer working indoors, you might focus on home maintenance tasks instead. Tasks like house cleaning or helping to organize a garage are commonly needed.
These jobs usually pay in cash at the end of the day or after the job is done. Usually, the homeowner pays you in cash before you go home.
4. Pet groomer
Pet groomers clean pets so that they look nice and healthy (and everyone needs a regular bath!). If you like pets, then you may enjoy being a pet groomer.
Pet groomers can sometimes get paid in cash, especially when you run your own business. I have seen many pet grooming businesses that operate out of a trailer that the person pulls behind their vehicle. They go straight to the person’s home, wash their dog in their mobile dog cleaning trailer, and then collect the cash payment once they are done.
Your work will include brushing and cutting fur, trimming nails, giving baths, and maybe even brushing the pet’s teeth. You make sure pets are clean, comfortable, and looking good. Sometimes, pet owners might also ask you to style their pets’ fur in a special way as well (such as by pinning back fur out of the dog’s eyes).
5. Pet sitter
Working as a pet sitter can be a simple and enjoyable way to earn extra cash.
As a pet sitter, your job is to keep an eye on someone’s pet while they are away. This can include feeding, walking, and playing with the pet to make sure it’s happy and healthy. You may need to stay overnight at the pet owner’s home or the pet may stay with you (it simply depends on what you and the pet owner agree on).
You can find pet sitting jobs on Rover. I have personally used this site countless times to find a pet sitter for my dogs.
Another under the table job similar to this is becoming a house sitter. House sitters watch homes while the owner is away and this can be a great side hustle. I talk more about this in a section further below.
6. House cleaning
When you’re looking for work that’s paid directly in cash, without formal paperwork, you might want to start with house cleaning.
So, what does a house cleaner include? Well, you’ll do things like dusting, vacuuming floors, and cleaning bathrooms. Sometimes, you’ll wash dishes or do laundry. If the house has pets, you might need to clean up after them too. Some house cleaners may even specialize in areas like extensive deep cleans that may take a whole day or even many days (or weeks!).
House cleaners earn between $25 to $50+ an hour for cleaning for others.
To get paid in cash means that you’ll typically work for yourself and get paid once you are done with cleaning for the day or after a week or two.
Getting this kind of business going isn’t costly because you probably already have the cleaning supplies you need (like a mop and vacuum). You can let people know about your services on Facebook, tell your friends and family, or create an account on Care’s website.
7. Dog walker
Dog walkers are exactly that – they walk dogs to make money.
You can find these jobs posted on platforms like Rover or just by posting something on your personal Facebook page advertising your dog walking service.
As a dog walker, your job is to take dogs for their daily walks while their owners are busy. This may be a walk that is around 30 minutes to one hour each time, but it all depends on what you have agreed on with the owner.
Walking pets can earn you about $15 to $25 or even more for each walk per animal.
8. Snow removal
If you’re good with a snow shovel or snowblower, snow removal might be a great job for you. This work can pay cash, making it a common under the table job.
When it snows, many people need help clearing their driveways and sidewalks. Some jobs are for one-time events, while others might need you all winter right after it snows to keep their driveways and sidewalks safe for people to walk or drive on.
You can find snow removal jobs by asking your neighbors or local businesses. Sometimes people put up signs along the roads in neighborhoods or ads online looking for help when there’s a big snowstorm.
People usually pay right after you’re done with the work.
9. Makeup artist
If you enjoy using makeup and know all the latest beauty trends, being a makeup artist can be a fun way to earn money.
It’s a job where you can be creative and help people look their best for events like weddings or photo shoots.
As a makeup artist, you’ll work with different tools like brushes, sponges, and a palette of colors. Your job will be to apply makeup on clients’ faces. You could work with all sorts of people, from friends and family to clients in your area.
10. House sitting
When you house sit, you’re taking care of someone else’s home while they’re away. This could be at a house near where you already live or maybe you fly to a fun vacation destination and watch their house there.
It’s your job to make sure everything stays safe and clean and that nothing happens to the home (such as a frozen water pipe bursts).
You might need to pick up the mail, water plants, or feed pets. Sometimes, people will ask you to stay overnight to make sure the house does not stay empty.
11. Sell at farmers markets
If you’re looking to make some cash, you can start selling at a local farmers market.
Some things that you can sell include fresh produce, homemade goodies, jewelry, unique crafts, or even baking cakes are great items. You’ll want to make sure your product and booth stand out, as there will be a lot of booths around you.
Shoppers at farmers markets typically pay in cash, so you can get paid quickly!
Note: To sell at a farmers market, you might need to get a permit. You can start by checking with your county health department and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for rules. Every place has different laws, so it’s important to understand what applies to your situation.
12. Have a garage sale
Having a garage sale is a way to earn some extra cash, and you don’t need special skills to get started. Look around your home for things you no longer use or need, and these could be clothes, toys, books, or even bigger pieces like furniture.
Items sold at garage sales typically don’t sell for a ton of money, but it can be a great way to declutter while getting paid cash.
Weekends, especially Saturday mornings, are prime times for yard sales. Make sure to check your local weather forecast as a sunny day can lead to more foot traffic. Once you have your date, gather all the items you plan to sell.
Then, you’ll want to organize your items by category. For example, put all the kitchen items on one table and all the books on another. Price everything clearly – you might use colored stickers for pricing – to avoid confusion.
You can advertise your garage sale a few days before. You can do this by posting on social media (such as by sharing it in local Facebook groups), community bulletin boards, or local classified websites. Signs around your neighborhood can also help draw attention to your sale.
During the sale, you’ll want to have change ready for customers who pay with cash, and you’ll probably want to have a calculator handy if you’re not comfortable doing math in your head.
13. Tutoring
If you’re knowledgeable in a subject, tutoring can be a good job for you. This is a job where you help others, like kids or even adults, to understand things better.
As a tutor, you work one-on-one or with small groups to teach things like math, reading, specialty exams, or even foreign languages.
Harder subjects usually pay more than easier subjects, and you may be able to earn $25 or more per hour as a tutor. You may get paid after each tutoring session. Or, if you are a regular tutor for a person, it may be weekly or even monthly – it depends on the agreement that you have with the person you are tutoring.
14. Painter
As a painter, your job is to paint walls, buildings, and other surfaces.
Your job responsibilities may include preparing surfaces by cleaning and scraping, mixing paint to get the right color, and applying paint with brushes, rollers, or sprayers.
Back when we were selling our first house, we hired a solo painter to come in and paint all the walls. This is a job that you may be able to find as well.
15. Handyman
If you’re good with tools and fixing things around the house, you might think about working as a handyman.
This job involves fixing leaky faucets, patching holes in walls, or putting together furniture. People tend to need help with these small jobs and look for someone who can do them without too much fuss.
You can find handyman jobs on websites like Craigslist or by asking friends and family if they know anyone who needs help.
With the same house I mentioned in the previous section, we also hired a handyman to renovate our bathroom as well as do around 10 other smaller things around our house too. We actually found him through a family friend, and he did so much work for us. It was great!
16. Dance instructor
Being a dance instructor can be a fulfilling under the table job in some cases. You could work with students of all ages, teaching them how to dance or different dance styles.
Of course, you will want to make sure that you are a skilled dancer, as this is not a job that anyone can do.
So, do you have experience in styles like ballet, hip-hop, or salsa? Or something else?
You can start by giving classes in your community or looking for local studios in need of instructors.
17. Auto mechanic
Working as an auto mechanic could be a great under the table job for you, and there are always people who need work done on their cars.
You’ll typically charge less than if a person would be going to a car dealership or a car mechanic business. People would usually be looking to hire a cash-pay mechanic if they were wanting to save some money.
As a mechanic, you make sure cars are running smoothly. Your job might include changing oil, replacing brakes, and making sure the engine is in top shape. Of course, you need to know what you are doing, as people are trusting their expensive cars and their lives with the repairs and updates that you do.
Working like this usually means you have to find your own customers. Good places to start are local ads or online platforms like Craigslist (start by looking under the “gig” section).
18. Photographer
Becoming a photographer can be a fun way for you to earn money if you are good with photography.
As a photographer, you can decide to work as an independent contractor, which means you are your own boss. This might involve getting paid in cash or a check for your services.
The different types of photography you can get into include:
Portrait photography – You might take photos of people and families, capturing special moments. Families like to have memories of their loved ones, and they’re willing to pay you for this service.
Event photography – This includes taking photographs at events like weddings or birthday parties. People like to remember these big events and may hire you to make sure they have great photos to look back on.
Commercial photography – This is for businesses that need photos of their products, services, real estate, and more.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
19. Sell firewood
Selling firewood can be a way to make money, especially if you live in an area where wood is used for heating or camping. Homeowners in colder places are always buying wood for their wood burning fireplaces and stoves, so this can be a good way to make some extra money by selling truckloads of wood.
First, you need to get firewood. If you have trees on your land, you might be able to cut your own wood.
After you have wood to sell, think about how you will sell it. You can sell wood online on websites where people buy and sell things in your community. You can also have a place at your house where people come to buy wood from you.
If you don’t have trees of your own, look for jobs where you can gather wood. Some people will even pay you to take away old trees or wood piles they don’t want.
Note: I recommend that you always keep in mind to follow the rules about selling wood where you live. Some places have rules about moving firewood to stop bugs and diseases from spreading to other trees.
20. Junk hauler
Being a junk hauler might be a great fit for you if you don’t mind a bit of heavy lifting. People tend to hire junk haulers when they have big, heavy things that they want to get rid of after all.
As a junk hauler, you get to help people clear out unwanted items from their homes or businesses. These items could be anything from old furniture to broken appliances.
Your job will mostly involve picking up and removing junk. You’ll need to have a reliable vehicle, maybe a truck or a van, that can carry all the items. Sometimes, you’ll be recycling things or taking them to a landfill.
You can find junk hauling gigs on websites or by signing up with companies that look for contractors. These could be one-time jobs or regular work, perfect if you’re looking for a side hustle or even to grow your own junk removal business.
You’ll generally get paid after you complete a job and since it’s often under the table, payment is usually in cash. This means you get paid directly, with no checks or direct deposits.
We personally had to call a junk hauler when we had several pieces of rotten wood that we needed thrown away – it was several hundred pounds and extremely messy – not something that we wanted to mess with and we also wanted it gone right away. That same day, a junk hauler came by and took it for $125. We paid him cash and he took it to the dump for us. It was so convenient for us and good business for him.
21. Rent out a spare room
If you have an empty room at your place, you might want to think about renting it out. This can be a good way to make some money on the side without a lot of work.
I have had several roommates over the years. We would rent out our spare room to long-term renters and people that we personally knew (such as friends and my sister).
To find a roommate and make money from renting your place, you can tell people about it in different ways. You can share it on your own Facebook page, post an ad on websites like Craigslist, make a rental listing on Airbnb, and try other methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
When you’re looking into jobs that pay cash, also known as under the table jobs, you might have a lot of questions.
What are under the table jobs?
Under the table jobs are ways you can earn money that’s usually paid in cash and not recorded officially by an employer. This means no tax forms are involved and no taxes are taken out of your pay right away (but you should still pay them!).
Is under the table work legal?
Okay, this is a great question to ask. After all, this is a whole article on how to find under the table jobs. So, does that mean these types of jobs are legal?
Well, working under the table can be tricky when it comes to the law. Your employer might pay you in cash without giving you a contract. While it might seem straightforward, not reporting this cash income to the IRS is considered tax evasion. Earning cash itself isn’t illegal, but failing to report it on your taxes can lead to problems.
What are the positives of working for cash?
When you get paid under the table, you get to keep all the money you earn immediately. This kind of setup is nice for jobs like babysitting or doing yard work, and you don’t have to wait for a paycheck. But, remember, you still have to pay taxes! So, the main positive is that you are paid cash right away, instead of having to wait a couple of weeks.
What are possible risks of working under the table? Is it OK to get paid under the table? Can an employee get in trouble for working under the table?
Working under the table can be risky. If the IRS finds out you’re not reporting your income, both you and your employer could face penalties. Also, you won’t have official records of your income, which can make it tricky if you need to show how much you earn for things like loans or renting a place to live.
What jobs can be paid under the table?
You can find jobs like babysitting, pet sitting, house cleaning, or gardening that pay under the table. These jobs usually pay cash because they are informal and may not involve paperwork. There are many other jobs that I didn’t even get into in the list above, such as becoming a personal assistant (doing things like grocery shopping and setting up appointments), personal trainer, graphic designer (making logos and more), and so on.
How do I find under the table jobs? How can you find local jobs that pay in cash?
To find these jobs, you can start by asking friends or neighbors if they need help with anything. You can also look at community bulletin boards or online classifieds for local job opportunities.
How do I ask for payment under the table?
If you’re looking for cash payment for a job, be honest and up front with your employer. Tell them you prefer cash payment, but realize that it’s usually smaller gigs that will pay cash and not more regular job opportunities. Keep in mind, though, that all income should still be reported for tax purposes.
How can you find jobs that pay under the table on Craigslist?
On Craigslist, you can filter your job search by using keywords like “cash pay” or “under the table.”
Under the Table Jobs – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to find the best under the table jobs.
Getting paid cash right after you complete a job is nice – you don’t have to worry about waiting for a payment and you can pay your bills right away.
There are many ways to find under the table jobs, such as by asking people that you know or by looking at gig/job websites in your area.
Now, there are pros and cons to being paid under the table. Being paid under the table means you get cash quickly. However, there are risks like missing out on legal protections and benefits, and if not reported, it might lead to tax evasion consequences.
So, when working under the table, it’s important to keep track of how much money you make. After all, you’re responsible for your own records and taxes, even if you’re paid in cash.
So, you do still need to pay taxes on the income that you make.
When you work under the table, you’re often working part-time or full-time but without the usual job benefits. If you’re planning ahead, think about how these jobs might affect your career later on. Eventually, it may be a good idea to find a job with more regular benefits where you pay taxes straight out of your income.
What do you think are the best under the table jobs?
Inside: Looking for a creative and easy way to give money as a gift? Look no further than these Money Gift Boxes! These boxes are perfect for any occasion and can be customized to make the gift even more special.
Gone are the days of simply slipping cash into a card; let’s welcome the creative and memorable gesture of a money gift box!
A money gift box, usually filled with crisp euro or dollar bills, presents a unique, exciting, and personalized way to gift money!
Why settle for boring when you can enchant the lucky recipient with this delightful surprise?
Gifting cash doesn’t have to be impersonal or dreary.
A money gift box makes the act of giving money much more thoughtful and engaging, as it shows that you have gone the extra mile to make your gift special.
The beauty of this idea is that it can be customized to fit various occasions – birthdays, weddings, graduation, or even business events.
No matter the occasion or recipient, a money gift box is not just a gift, it’s an experience that lasts even beyond the moment the box is opened.
Choose to make your gift memorable with one of these curated money gift box ideas.
What is a Money Gift Box?
A Money Gift Box is a unique and creative way of giving money as a gift where cash, often in the form of dollar bills assembled and neatly packaged within a gift box.
These boxes are popular gifts for occasions such as weddings, Christmas, birthdays, and other celebratory events where monetary giving is customary.
Money gift ideas are a hot idea and these are unique ways to wrap your cash gifts in an enticing box, creating a true element of surprise or maybe even a puzzle!
How can I surprise my money as a gift?
Coming up with innovative ways to gift money can transform an otherwise simple and predictable present into a surprise packed with joy and excitement.
One fantastic method is the money gift box — it’s unique, elegant, and speaks volumes about your creative prowess.
The money pull box is not just an exciting twist on traditional greeting cards or money envelopes, but it also allows for personalized notes and heartfelt messages, turning a practical gift into something far more special and sentimental.
This ingenious idea is not only an impactful way to give cash but also easy to accomplish.
Remember, it’s the thought, creativity, and effort that transform money—often perceived as a last-minute and impersonal gift—into something unique, intimate, and forever memorable.
Turn that element of surprise up a notch with the money gift box!
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Why Choose a Money Gift Box?
1. You can give money in a creative way.
2. The gift can be customized according to the occasion.
3. Money is a versatile gift that can fit any budget.
4. The gift is easy to make.
5. Money can be given in many different forms, including coins, dollar bills, and more.
6. The gift can be given in various ways, such as in a card box, on a birthday cake, or in an envelope.
7. The gift can be personalized with decorations and other additions.
8. Money can be given in a memorable way.
9. The gift can be given in a way that is relevant to the event.
10. Money can be given in a way that is safe and secure.
How do you put money in a gift box?
Putting money in a gift box can be a delightful surprise for the recipient. One commonly fun method is to tape dollar bills or Euro notes end to end and roll them up tightly – even easier to use the money dispenser bag.
The rolled-up notes are then placed inside the box, with one end fed through a slit in the box and attached to a tab labeled “pull”. This allows the recipient to unravel a long coiled string of money, adding an element of surprise to the gift.
The type, amount, and currency of money can be chosen based on the occasion, whether it’s for a wedding, graduation, or birthday.
Learn how much to give for high school graduation.
Money Gift Box Ideas
Jazz up your gift-giving game with a delightful surprise: a money gift box!
This innovative yet straightforward gift is perfect for any occasion, and we bet the recipient will love it.
Perfect for anyone you value, from family to friends. It’s an excellent gift for celebrations like birthdays, weddings, graduation, or even anniversaries. Perfect small gift ideas!
We curated the best money gift boxes available and picked our favorites, which we can’t wait to share with you!
Money Box for Cash Gift Pull
Imagine surprising your loved ones with a unique, fun-filled cash gift – the Money Box for Cash Gift Pull! Not your traditional presents, this creative and thrilling gift idea redefines the joy of giving.
Tug at the end, and imagine their thrill as they unfold a continuous string of dollar bills.
This money pull box adds excitement, charm, and a touch of suspense to your gift-giving occasions. It combines love, beauty, and utility, making gifting cash a delightful experience.
Expert Tip: Personalize with heartfelt written notes and be generous with the denomination of bills for a more memorable surprise.
Green Money Machine Cash Dispenser
Ditch the mundane envelopes for gifting cash and add a fun twist with the Green Money Machine Cash Dispenser. It is a gift box that turns your cash gifts into an exciting surprise, adding a layer of anticipation to your presents.
We all want a money machine, right? Sounds like a rack of money to me!
The Green Money Machine Cash Dispenser guarantees a gift-giving experience that’s both exciting and memorable.
To use it, just attach the pull-tab to the first bill and thread it through the slot on the top of the Money Machine. The card stock box is lightweight making it hassle-free to carry or send through mail.
Made in the USA, this money dispenser doesn’t include cash, providing you the flexibility to fill it with your choice of cash amount.
Pink Cash Heart Money Pull Box
Looking for a creative way to gift money? Meet the Pink Cash Pull Box – a unique money gift box designed to add a memorable twist to your gifting moments.
This DIY money pull kit allows you to roll your cash, hide it under the box filler, and insert other surprises like flowers or a gift card. Watch as your loved ones delight in pulling out a cascade of money and gifts – an unforgettable moment!
This versatile gift box features an automatic on/off string light that illuminates when the box is opened, providing an enchanting reveal. It’s suitable for multiple occasions such as Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, birthdays, or anniversaries, making it a thoughtful gift idea for your wife, husband, mother, father, or grandma.
Imagine your loved one opening this in anticipation of a small gift, only to continue pulling out surprise after surprise, ending with birthday money – a gift that perfectly blends sentiment with practicality.
Black Money Box Cash Pull
Surprise your loved ones in a uniquely thrilling way with Ribbonbonbox’s Black Money Box Cash Pull, a luxurious and unforgettable gift experience.
The black box is elegantly designed, highlighted by beautiful red soap roses and a built-in LED light for an additional extraordinary effect.
Crafted with a durable wooden board and acrylic lid, it’s designed for longevity, ensuring the surprise doesn’t fade with time.
Optimized for everyone — from life partners and best friends to parents and grandparents — it’s a compelling choice for all occasions, from birthdays to anniversaries.
Expert Tip: Add in different types of bills while filling the box, for an extra element of fun when your loved one pulls out the cash!
ThinkMax Money Maze Puzzle Box
If you’re searching for the perfect gift that’s both exciting and wallet-friendly, the ThinkMax Money Maze Puzzle Box is an excellent choice. This unique gift combines the thrill of a puzzle with the sweet success of a hidden reward, making it an unforgettable present.
The puzzle box offers a fun and challenging way to gift money or small items. Just slide the ball to the top and push the latch to open the box.
It’s ideal for teen boys, girls, and co-workers, thanks to its modern design and eye-catching colors. In fact, these are inexpensive gifs for coworkers.
But it’s more than just a gimmick – the money maze puzzle box also fosters the development of motor skills, enhances spatial awareness, and strengthens logical thinking.
To make it even more memorable, consider adding a custom message or inserting a specially chosen gift into the box.
Remember, with a touch of creativity, the ThinkMax Money Maze Puzzle Box can be transformed into the greatest gift of all seasons.
Money Puzzle Box for Cash – Solve the Puzzle
Looking for a fun way to give money gifts in care packages for college students? Let me introduce you to the Money Puzzle Box!
This unique gift box adds a thrilling twist to gift-giving by turning it into a captivating adventure. As one of the best money gift box ideas, it’s not just a box, it’s a rewarding 3x3x3 maze puzzle that stores your precious present inside.
This is a clever cash holder and brain-busting puzzle in one.
Plus gives a delightful challenge to your recipient, improving their spatial awareness, motor skills, and concentration.
3D Escape Game Money Box
Imagine surprising your loved ones with a unique, puzzle-solving gift box experience. How, you ask?
Let me walk you through the marvel of 3D Escape Game Money Box.
Start by acquiring the wooden puzzle escape room game, which doubles up as an impressive gift box.
Upon unboxing, navigate through its various compartments designed to pose stimulating mental challenges.
Once you unravel all the mysteries, find the hidden compartment which is perfect for concealing an assortment of gifts such as jewelry, money, or even a personalized note.
Undoubtedly, this 2-in-1 gift idea holds more than meets the eye. It’s not just about the physical treasure hidden inside, but the thrilling adventure in unlocking it.
Happy Birthday Day Money Box for Cash
A happy birthday money box filled with cash makes for a unique and exciting gift.
This creative alternative to placing money in a pull-out fashion offers a colorful and festive way to surprise the birthday person.
The process is simple: dollar bills are taped end to end, rolled up, and placed in a specially designed box. The recipient then pulls a long string of money out of the box, resulting in plenty of smiles and happy surprises.
Above all, the exhilaration of pulling out a roll of cash is an unparalleled experience that makes it the best gift for friends or family who appreciate fun and creativity.
Wooden Secret Puzzle Box
The Wooden Secret Puzzle Box is an innovative and entertaining way to gift money or small presents. With an additional double lock, it creates a mentally stimulating challenge for the recipient, promoting problem-solving skills and increasing brain fitness.
This wooden keepsake box is not just a puzzle, it’s an experience.
The excitement of unlocking the secret compartment to reveal the gift inside surpasses the typical present, providing hours of entertainment. These boxes aren’t just for adults, children can also enjoy the challenge.
The process to unlock the loot requires some effort but is ultimately rewarding. Tilting the box and navigating the slider right, you’ll hit the lock— rewarding patience and logic with the much-desired gift.
Perfect to add to Easter basket ideas for girls.
Confetti Exploding Gift Box
Experience the thrill of giving and receiving with the Confetti Exploding Gift Box – it’s not just a gift; it’s a party in a box!
Imagine the surprise and laughter as the box explodes with confetti, making for a truly unforgettable gift-opening moment.
This isn’t your typical ribbon-tied gift; the box is beautifully crafted in Europe with premium quality materials, ensuring not just a surprise but also a touch of class. It’s perfect for everyone – children, adults, or even your colleagues celebrating their work anniversary.
Think about it… who wouldn’t love their face sprinkling down with confetti! This gift guarantees not just an explosion of colorful bits but, more importantly, an explosion of emotions.
Remember, this isn’t just for the recipient; bystanders will be delighted too, making your gift the talk of the party!
Brain Teaser Wooden Box with Hidden Cash
Introducing the Brain Teaser Wooden Box, an enthralling blend of puzzles, secret stash, and premium craftsmanship. This mysterious box is a fun, engaging, and stylish way to gift cash or other valuables.
Imagine the thrill of gifting a treasure chest that doubles as a mental workout. Crafted from high-quality wood, its intricate design and precise construction make it an impressive gift. Whether it’s for men, women, or puzzle enthusiasts, they will appreciate the challenge and craftsmanship.
What’s in the box? That’s part of the mystery, making it an intriguing conversation starter.
It’s more than just a puzzle; it’s a secure place to hide valuables or surprise someone with a cash gift.
With its versatility, it can also serve as a chic jewelry box or desk decor.
The journey of unlocking this box is half the fun! Whether you’re playing Santa or looking for a unique anniversary gift or boys Easter basket, the Brain Teaser Wooden Box is your exciting solution.
Secret Puzzle Box
Discover a whole new world of excitement and intrigue with the Secret Puzzle Box – an innovative way to gift money or valuable cards. Delight in the thrill of solving a complex mystery as you explore this extraordinary gift box.
Its design combines the addictive challenge of a brain teaser with the thrill of a treasure hunt. It’s perfect for adults who relish intellectually stimulating experiences.
You can safely conceal valuable possessions such as cash, jewelry, or gift cards in its lockable compartments. Nothing like sparking curiosity by keeping your gift under wraps!
Constructed with high-quality wood, it boasts an intricate design that showcases exquisite craftsmanship. Apart from being a captivating puzzle, it doubles as a unique jewelry box and conversation starter.
Cake Money Box Transparent Bags
Most of the money gift boxes come with transparent bags to load up your cash in.
However, you may need extra. These are perfect if you decide to make a DIY money gift box as well.
Why is it one of the best? Well, here are some compelling features:
The bag has a size of 3.1 x 7.5 inches, an ideal and manageable size to tuck in your cash gift.
It’s constructed from high-quality cellophane plastic; lightweight, reusable, and practically invincible against breaks or deformations.
High transparency ensures your gift is perfectly visible, adding to the anticipation and excitement.
The self-adhesive design simplifies packaging and saves you time.
Plus, it possesses excellent vapor-blocking properties, safeguarding your gift from dust and bugs.
Best for occasions like birthday parties, weddings, and family gatherings, this revolutionary gift idea will surely create unforgettable memories.
Expert Tip: You can use these bags not just for money, but also to include small treasured items or personalized notes to make your gift extra special.
How to make a money dispenser box?
All it requires is taping dollar bills end to end in a long string, rolling them, and neatly placing them inside a beautifully designed box. Add a final touch by attaching a “pull” tab to the end bill, and voila – you’ve created a delightful and unexpected gift.
Sounds easy, right? Well, it is. It just takes some practice like these money cake ideas.
Consider using this idea for occasions like birthdays, weddings, or graduation celebrations. After all, who doesn’t love the sight of cascading cash pulled from an exquisitely crafted box?
Step 1: Choose a Money Gift Box
Opt for a box with a festive allure for birthdays or celebratory events.
The box size and shape determine how much money it can hold and how smoothly it dispenses.
The design showcases your creativity and speaks volumes about the occasion.
Remember, it’s not just a gift, it’s an experience. If you want to surprise a friend, pick a box that pops with colors.
Your chosen money gift box sets the stage; make it count!
Step 2: Prepare the Money Roll
You’re onto a fun-filled step of crafting your own money dispenser box, and preparing the money roll!
This part is crucial, so follow closely.
First, gather your dollar bills. Getting new dollar bills may be a challenge, so make sure you ask your bank first.
Next, neatly insert the dollar bills in the transparency bags. Also, include a few memorable notes.
Then, tape the bills end-to-end or use the small sticky dots. Ensure to connect the bills seamlessly and cleanly to maintain the charm of the constant pull.
Once you’ve crafted a nice lengthy string of bills, begin rolling. Start from one end and maintain a tight, steady roll until it looks like a small, compact money bundle.
A quick expert tip here – if the roll seems loose or flimsy, don’t worry. Tightening it up as you go often helps achieve compactness.
Congratulations, you’re one step closer to creating an absolute hit of a gift!
Remember, the joy is in both the making and the giving! Keep up the great work, and let’s dive into the next step soon.
Step 3: Make the Boxes
This is where you incorporate the money into the box, effectively transforming it into a thrilling dispenser.
Insert your tightly wrapped roll of money into the gift box. Make sure you leave the pull the money out.
Next, you can add trinkets or other mementos to the box if you prefer.
Make sure to securely tape it, ensuring that it’s attached beautifully and strongly.
Step 4: Give Out the Boxes
Now for the fun part! Give your money gift box to the recipient or recipients.
As your friend unwraps the seemingly ordinary gift, the initial confusion transitions into pure delight as they pull out a long string of dollar bills from the box. Their bemused smile and surprised laughter truly makes the effort worthwhile.
Remember, it’s not just the monetary value of this gift that matters, but the joyful surprise and the shared happiness it brings.
Get creative with your gift-giving and make each celebration truly memorable.
Money Puzzle Gift Boxes for Cash
One of the MOST popular gifts!
This maze puzzle cube is a unique cash holder. Perfect for kids and adults, it’s a thrilling puzzle box and money maze.
Get yours now and turn gifting into an adventure!
Buy Now on Amazon
12/19/2023 07:57 pm GMT
Which Money Boxes for Gifts are your Favorite?
In conclusion, these money gift boxes are more than just vessels – they’re tangible expressions of generosity, thoughtfulness, and affection. They instill in the recipients a sense of appreciation and an overwhelming feeling of being valued.
Plus, who doesn’t like a little surprising twist with their monetary gift?
Start shopping now for these amazing money gift boxes to make your gifting experience memorable and cherished.
After all, the best gifts are not only about what you give but also how you give them. Perfect ideas for gifts for kids who have everything!
With money gift boxes, you can add that extra personal touch, making your gift more special and memorable.
Filled with surprise and delight, these money gift boxes are sure to impress and leave a lasting imprint.
So why wait? Begin your money gift box shopping now and lavish your loved ones with a gift they’ll truly cherish!
Embrace gifting in style with a money gift box! Plus these may work perfectly for a no gift Christmas!
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
Many frequent travelers carry tales of delayed flights and disappointing hotel rooms. Yet Airbnb “horror stories” are a genre all their own.
Videos with the tag #AirbnbHorrorStory have more than 63 million views on TikTok, featuring guests venting about unclean properties and last-minute cancellations leaving them stranded. The website Airbnbhell features hundreds of similar accounts, where things do not go as expected for short-term renters.
While many of these stories offer little more than schadenfreude, others can act as instructive lessons for travelers looking to avoid similar pitfalls. While there’s no way to avoid short-term rental surprises outright, many guests who have experienced them say there were warning signs they wished they had watched out for.
Look for reviews
Jack Epner, a marketing consultant and digital nomad, has lived out of Airbnbs for more than four years. Of the many difficult stays in that time, one rental — a house in Ecuador — stands out.
“It wasn’t clean, distinctly not clean,” Epner says. “We’re talking black mold all over the kitchen, hair all over the bedding. I ended up with bed bugs.”
Beyond that, Epner says the host’s friends would use the front lawn as a parking lot, and the host entered the (private) property unannounced several times.
After messaging several Airbnb customer service teams, Epner was eventually able to receive a refund. Yet the stay was so difficult, that it forced a recalibration of how much emphasis he now places on guest reviews.
The home had only one review, from a local, Epner says. And while he would usually look for more reviews before booking, the lack of availability at the time made him willing to take the risk. He says that’s a risk he won’t repeat.
“I do avoid places without reviews now,” Epner says. “If there’s really only one review, I’ll be wary; I would like to see two to three minimum. The more reviews the better.”
Have a backup plan
When Agnes Groonwald saw an Airbnb listing in Crestone, Colorado, it looked too interesting to pass up.
“The place was intriguing. It looked like a spaceship buried in the ground,” Groonwald says.
Groonwald, a nomad and creator of the blog Travel on the Reg, says the listing’s uniqueness wasn’t totally convincing. Yet, with no other listings available nearby, it seemed like the best choice.
Upon check-in, she noticed another group was already there: a family of mice.
“As soon as we arrived, we saw a little critter in the kitchen sink,” Groonwald says. “This was an infestation; this was the real deal.”
Groonwald, too, was able to receive a refund for the booking but couldn’t find alternative lodging nearby at such short notice. That meant cohabitating with mice for several days.
“We would wake to the pitter-patter of little feet in the middle of the night,” Groonwald recalls, saying that the experience taught her two lessons.
First, don’t be drawn in by quirky photos. Staying in an unusual home, such as a spaceship, might sound fun, but it can mean dealing with equally unusual problems.
“Sometimes boring is better,” Groonwald suggests.
Second, make sure there’s a backup plan in place in case of deal-breaking problems. That doesn’t mean you have to book another rental, but just make sure there’s another lodging option available on the same dates in case something goes wrong with your Airbnb.
Communicate beforehand
Gabrielle Dahms, a realtor based in California, says she has always had good Airbnb experiences. Then, she checked into a five-day Airbnb rental in San Rafael, California, and discovered an unexpected hazard: synthetic fragrance dispensers.
“Anytime anyone made a movement, these things dispensed fragrance,” Dahms laments. “Within two hours, my sinuses were completely swelled up.”
Dahms complained to the host and Airbnb customer service, which resulted in receiving a one-star guest review. It has since soured her on the entire platform.
According to Epner, these problems of mismatched expectations between guests and hosts can be addressed by communicating with the host ahead of time.
“Anytime there’s the potential to not be on the same page, I think it’s helpful to connect before booking,” Epner says.
He learned this lesson after staying with a host who wanted to be friends with guests, rather than respect privacy. He now messages hosts with a few questions before booking, to gauge their communication style.
“Do they treat it as a dumb question, or are they polite?” Epner says. “Anything I can do to get the sense of the host before booking, I’ll do that.”
This article was written by NerdWallet and was originally published by The Associated Press.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
Adding a garage to your property can make your life easier while also adding value to your home. But building a garage can be expensive — and if you can’t afford the cost upfront, some type of financing will likely be required in order to move forward with the project.
The good news is homeowners have several options to choose from so they can get the garage they want now and pay for the project over time — including a personal loan, a home equity loan or line of credit, or a cash-out refinance.
But how do you decide which type of garage financing is best for you? Read on for a breakdown of the different options, some of their pros and cons, and how to choose the right financial product for you when you decide to build your new garage.
How Do People Afford to Build a Garage?
Most people probably can’t afford to add a garage to their home without borrowing at least part of the money for the build. And even those who have enough cash to cover the cost might not want to dip into their savings to foot the entire bill upfront.
There are several ways to finance a garage build, and the option that works best for you may depend on several factors. Before you make your choice, it can be good idea to look at:
• How much equity you have in your home, and if you want to tap that equity for funding.
• Your credit score nd what kind of interest rate you might be offered if you apply for a loan.
• How long you want to make payments, and how those payments might affect your other goals.
• How much you expect the full cost of your project to be, and how much of that you want to finance.
💡 Quick Tip: Before choosing a personal loan, ask about the lender’s fees: origination, prepayment, late fees, etc. SoFi personal loans come with no-fee options, and no surprises.
What Is the Average Amount Needed to Build a Garage?
According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of building a garage is about $28,326. The typical price range in 2022 was between $16,424 and $40,287.
Of course, your costs may vary significantly based on the size of the garage, the materials you choose, labor costs in your area, and the type of structure you plan to build. Here’s a breakdown of what some garage projects can cost:
Carport
Average cost: $2,400 to $8,400 for one car; $4,000 to $14,000 for two cars, fully installed
A carport can be a great option if you’re looking to protect your car from the sun, snow, sleet and hail, pollen, bugs and birds, etc. A carport is typically less expensive than a fully enclosed garage.
Square footage is usually the most important factor when it comes to determining price. A fully installed (parts, labor, etc.) 12-foot-by-20-foot carport, built for just one car, averages between $2,400 to $8,400; while a two-car, 20-foot-by-20-foot carport would be around $4,000 to $14,000.
Here are some other factors that can impact the cost:
• Whether the carport is temporary or permanent
• The roofing and other materials used
• Whether it’s a prefab or custom build
• Whether it’s freestanding or attached to another structure or a concrete foundation.
Attached and Detached Garages
Average cost: $10,500 to $27,000 for one car; $14,500 to $40,300 for two cars, fully installed
If you’re looking to keep tools, bikes, or even a washer and dryer in your new space, along with your car or cars, you’ll probably want a completely enclosed garage with doors you can lock.
Your storage needs will help determine the size of the garage you build — and, yes, that size will figure into the cost. A standard one-car garage is 12 to 16 feet wide and 20 to 24 feet long, while a two-car garage is usually 22 to 26 feet wide and 20 to 24 feet long.
Keep in mind that if the garage is attached to your home, you may pay 10% to 15% less than you would if the garage is detached. The materials you choose for the walls and roofing will also influence the cost. And you can expect the price to increase if you add windows, plumbing, and/or electricity.
Storage Shed
Average cost: $2,500, fully installed
If you’re just looking for additional storage and not a place to park your car, a shed might be a more affordable option. The average price range for building a shed ranges from about $200 (for a small prefab shed) to $30,000 (for a custom structure that could serve as an office, man cave, or she-shed).
The size of the shed (both square footage and ceiling height) will make a big difference in the cost, as will the materials you choose, the type of foundation you use, if the project requires a permit or professional installation, and if you want to add plumbing and electricity.
Garage Doors
Average cost: $1,200, fully installed
The door you choose for your new garage can be important to your home’s curb appeal, but you may also want to consider energy efficiency and how the door will hold up against rough weather — or energetic kids who use it as a backdrop to their sports practice.
Factors that can affect the cost of a garage door include the style, materials, size, and the type of installation required. The cost can also increase if you opt for an automatic door with sensors, a keypad, and other bells and whistles.
Installation Costs
Unless you plan to build your garage yourself, your labor costs could add up to at least half of your project’s price tag — and your location could be an important factor.
HomeAdvisor found, for example, that if you live in Austin, Boston, or Los Angeles, you could end up paying twice as much for your garage as you would if you lived in Chicago, Oklahoma City, or Kansas City, Mo.
Permit Fees
Average cost: $150 to $500
Here’s a cost homeowners tend to overlook: Almost any building project requires a permit.
Permitting needs and costs can vary depending on the type of project and where you live. If you’re working with a contractor or installation company, they should be able to tell you what’s required and the cost. You also can contact your local government agency for information.
The average cost for a garage permit is $150 to $500, but if you’re adding electricity, plumbing, or air conditioning, the price could be as much as $800 to $1,500.
Recommended: The Cost of Buying a Fixer-Upper
Garage Builders Financing Options
Because the cost of building a garage can get pretty expensive, homeowners often decide to use some type of financing to pay for the project.
There are several options available if you prefer to break down the cost of your project (large or small) into affordable monthly payments. Here are some common choices:
Personal Loan
With a personal loan, you’ll get a lump sum of money that can be repaid in monthly installments, usually at a fixed interest rate that’s based on your credit score, income, and how much debt you’re currently carrying. This type of financing can be used for just about anything, but home improvement projects are among the most popular uses of a personal loan.
Borrowers typically aren’t required to provide collateral to get a personal loan (unlike a home equity loan or HELOC). This can make the approval process go faster, which means you can get your money sooner. Another plus: You won’t be putting your home or any other asset at risk if you can’t make your loan payments. But there’s also a downside in that your interest rate may be higher than it would be with a secured loan. And you may have less time to pay back the money you borrowed.
Recommended: 11 Types of Personal Loans and Their Differences
Home Equity Loan
Borrowers who have built up some equity in their home (at least 10% to 20%) may want to look into financing a garage build with a home equity loan. With this type of loan, you’ll get your money upfront and pay it back, with interest, in fixed monthly payments.
The upside to a home equity loan is that a lender may offer a lower interest rate because the financing is secured with your home as collateral. The downside, of course, is that if you default on the loan, the lender could choose to foreclose. And if you sell your home, you’ll be expected to pay off your loan balance. You also can expect a more complicated application process and to pay closing costs and other fees with this type of loan.
HELOC
A HELOC is like a home equity loan in that it allows you to borrow against the equity you have in your home. But with a HELOC, you don’t have to borrow all the money at once — you can use your line of credit to borrow just what you need as the project moves along. And you’ll pay interest (usually a variable rate) only on the amount you currently owe, much like a credit card.
The major drawback is that your home will serve as collateral for the line of credit, so if you default, the lender could foreclose on your home. And if interest rates increase, your loan payment could end up being higher than the amount you originally budgeted.
203(K) Loan
The Federal Housing Administration offers 203(K) loans as a way for current homeowners and homebuyers to refinance their home and roll the costs of a renovation into the mortgage. Because they’re backed by the FHA, these loans can come with lower interest rates and qualifying may be easier. But your home and your garage project will have to meet FHA requirements.
Construction Loan
Construction loans traditionally have been used to finance the building of a new home, but they also may be used to make substantial renovations to a current home.
These loans typically have a variable interest rate, and because they’re unsecured, the rate may be higher than other types of garage financing options. Construction loans also have shorter terms than most loan options: They generally must be rolled into a mortgage or paid off within a year.
Cash-out Refinance
With a cash-out refinance, borrowers take out a new and larger mortgage on their home, then pay off the old mortgage and keep the difference to pay for their renovation project.
If you can find a competitive, fixed interest rate and other loan terms that work for you, this might be an alternative worth considering. But again, the loan is secured with your home as collateral, the application and approval process can be more complicated and slower than with other options, and there may be closing costs and fees.
What Type of Loan Is Best for Building a Garage?
If you’re hoping to build a garage, it makes sense to thoroughly research all the financing possibilities. But you’ll likely find that a personal loan is among the top contenders.
Benefits of a Personal Loan
There are several benefits to using a personal loan to finance a new garage.
• You can borrow a fairly high amount (up to $100,000, for example, with a SoFi personal loan).
• With an unsecured personal loan, you won’t have to put up your home or any other asset as collateral.
• If you have a good credit history, you should qualify for a competitive interest rate.
• Personal loans typically come with a fixed interest rate, which can make budgeting easier.
• If you make timely payments and pay off the loan on time, it can help your credit.
• The application process can be faster than other options, so you’ll get your money sooner.
Qualifying for a Personal Loan
Personal loan requirements can vary from one financial institution to the next, but here are three things lenders typically look at when reviewing an application:
• Credit score and credit history: The higher your credit score, and the cleaner your credit report, the better your chances of qualifying for a loan with a competitive interest rate.
• Employment history and income: Borrowers should be prepared to provide recent tax returns, bank statements, and other documents to verify their employment and their wages or salary.
• Debt-to-income ratio: Lenders can have different requirements, but generally, the lower your debt-to-income ratio (how much you spend on monthly debt payments relative to your income), the better chance you’ll qualify for the loan terms you want.
Things to Consider When Applying for a Personal Loan
Before you apply for a personal loan, it can be a good idea to think about:
• How much you need: With a personal loan you’ll receive a lump sum of cash, so it can be helpful to have an estimate for your project’s overall cost — and how much what you’ll need to borrow — before you begin researching lenders.
• How much you can afford to pay back each month: You may want to run the numbers to see how your loan payments will fit into your monthly budget.
• How much time you’ll need to repay the loan: If you have big dreams — and a big price tag to match — you may want to look at a long-term loan (five to seven years) so the payments don’t overwhelm you. Keep in mind, though, that the longer the loan term, the more you can expect to pay in interest.
• Where you can get a personal loan that’s a fit for your needs: When you’re ready to look for a loan, your focus will likely be on finding the most competitive interest rate. But when you’re deciding where to get a personal loan, don’t forget to consider other costs — including origination fees, late payment charges, and prepayment penalties.
Alternative Garage Builders Financing Options
There are a couple of alternatives to financing your garage build with a loan or a secured line of credit. And like the other options listed here, they, too, have pros and cons.
Cash
If you have plenty of money to finish your project without financing, and you want to avoid interest charges, paying cash is definitely an option to consider. But if it would require pulling money from your emergency fund, or affect your budget or other important financial goals, you might want to look at other options. Of course, you could save up until you feel comfortable about paying for the project with cash. But depending on the total cost of the project, that might mean a long delay.
Credit Card
A credit card is a convenient way to pay for costs as you go, and this type of financing could be easier to obtain than a secured loan or secured line of credit. But unless you’re eligible for a card with a low or 0% introductory rate — and can pay off your balance before the introductory period expires — the interest rate could be much higher than with other borrowing options. If you’re building a storage shed or DIY carport, a credit card might be an appropriate financing tool. But for a pricier project, you may find there’s a more affordable option.
The Takeaway
Building a garage — whether it’s a prefab shed, standalone carport, or attached garage — can be an expensive project. Depending on the scale of the project and where you live, you could easily spend close to $30,000.
Most people opt to finance their garage build project, either with a personal loan or a line of credit. This allows them to break up the cost over several months and keep their cash in savings for a rainy day.
If you know what kind of garage or similar structure you hope to build, and you need or want to find financing to help pay for it, a personal loan can be a solid option.
Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.
SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2023 winner for Best Online Personal Loan overall.
FAQ
How do people afford to build a garage?
If paying cash to build a garage isn’t feasible, there are several financing options available, including a personal loan, home equity loan, or home equity line of credit (HELOC).
Can you finance a garage?
You can finance a garage if you can’t pay cash — or don’t want to. There are several financing options available, whether you’re planning to DIY a small carport or you’re working with a contractor to install a super-sized garage with all the amenities.
What type of loan is best for building a garage?
If you have solid credit, a personal loan may be the best type of financing for building a garage. You can borrow the money you want upfront, get the funding quickly, and make fixed-rate monthly payments while enjoying the benefits of adding a garage where you can keep your car, boat, tools, toys, and more.
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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
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We’re all privy to dealing with some insects or bugs in our rental property. Whether that be fruit flies, mosquitos or even ants, living pest-free requires knowing how to eliminate unwanted bugs. A common household bug, pantry moths — or Indian meal moths — are a common type of household pest that infests stored food products.
These bugs target food items found in pantries and kitchens, earning them the title of pest. Because they contaminate and damage various food products knowing how to get rid of them, is a valuable skill.
A pantry is an essential part of a kitchen, often stocked with our favorite snacks and necessary items for mealtimes. If it’s mostly full, it is tricky to spot an Indian meal moth before you notice infested food items, meaning it’s too late. Before they contaminate food, utilize this checklist to identify pantry moths.
Identifying by appearance: Pantry moths are small with a wingspan of 5/8 inch. Their coloring ranges from grey to reddish-brown, typically with a spotted pattern on the wings. It’s important to note that pantry months are more slender than traditional moths which are larger and wider in size.
Understanding the pantry moth life cycle: You may not see a moth, but you can pay attention to various life cycle phases you may notice. Female moths lay eggs near food sources or even worse, on food sources. They then grow and the larvae feed on said food sources, beginning the contamination process. The next step in the cycle is spinning a cocoon and pupating, where they then mate to lay eggs, continuing the cycle. Keeping an eye out for eggs just as much as a moth itself can help prevent the pantry moth life cycle from continuing and contaminating food.
Protecting food sources: Pantry moths eat just about anything. Common pantry pests’ favorites include grains (such as flour, rice, cereal and pasta), spices, nuts, pet foods, dried fruit and chocolate. Pantry moths can chew through stored food packaging and nest within food containers, so make sure to check inside food packaging along with these specific foods.
Eliminating pantry moths
Now that we’ve covered what to look for and how to identify pantry moths’ presence, it’s time to learn extermination methods to get rid of pantry moths. It’s essential to get rid of pantry moths the minute you notice their presence as they are notoriously known for being tricky to get rid of.
Clean and empty your pantry
This step is recommended regardless of your elimination method preference. Unfortunately, once you notice a pantry moth, pantry moth larvae or webbing, there is some infestation occurring whether big or small. Your best chance of fully ridding your pantry of this infestation is throwing away noticeably infested food.
Our recommendation is to remove all food from your pantry to thoroughly clean the shelves, paying extra attention to corners. Throw away any food sources listed above, even if it’s unclear if there are eggs or webbing around this food or packaging. Be sure to check all food thoroughly and if there’s even the smallest question, throwing it away ensures you’re getting rid of contaminated food.
Method 1: Try bay leaves
Bay leaves naturally deter pantry moths due to their smell. By placing bay leaves around and inside food containers, the scent will repel moths and prevent further infestation.
Method 2: Invest in pantry moth traps
Image source: Amazon
Pantry moth traps are a great solution for catching these pests and stopping the continuing life cycle. The traps are designed to attract moths with pheromones, catching them with ease. You can find these traps, both natural and chemical, in most hardware stores, online or in some grocery stores
Method 3: Hire pest control
If you prefer to leave it up to the professionals, that’s okay too. If you’re in a rental property or apartment, file a maintenance request or speak to your landlord for the best way to seek third-party resources. For homeowners, most exterminators or pest control companies can take care of a pantry moth infestation.
Are pantry moths harmful?
While these precautions may seem as though pantry moths are dangerous, they’re nothing more than a nuisance. There’s no risk of disease associated with the common pantry moth, however, removing them from your pantry is ideal for the longevity of your food.
Prevention is key
Preventing pantry moths from contaminating food is the best route to take in terms of pest control. It’s highly recommended to store food sources in airtight containers, made with materials that cannot be chewed through, like hard plastic or glass. Other prevention methods include organizing your pantry so your vision is clear and hiding spots are few and far between along with cleaning spilled food immediately.
So long, pantry moths
Pantry moths, while not harmful, are certainly annoying. Replacing infested food is also expensive, making prevention methods and treatment options worthwhile investments. Ensure your kitchen stays bug-free by following these practical tips; you’ll not only save money but maintain cleanliness and hygiene in arguably the place in your home where it matters the most.
Still looking for that dream kitchen to keep pest-free? Start and end your search with our list of apartments for rent.
Featured Image Source: Southern Living
Wesley is a Charlotte-based writer with a degree in Mass Communication from the University of South Carolina. Her background includes 6 years in non-profit communication and 4 years in editorial writing. She’s passionate about traveling, volunteering, cooking and drinking her morning iced coffee. When she’s not writing, you can find her relaxing with family or exploring Charlotte with her friends.
Why Your Checking Account Should Contain as Little Money as Possible
By: Natasha Etzel |
Updated
Oct. 4, 2023 – First published on Oct. 4, 2023
A bank account is an excellent place to keep your money so it’s organized and readily available when needed. Many people keep their cash in a checking account. But, while you want to stash enough money in your checking account to cover your bills and everyday expenses, you want to avoid keeping all of your cash there. I’ll explain why here, and suggest a better place to stash your extra savings.Don’t miss out on interestThe average checking account doesn’t accrue interest. That means you won’t get rewarded for keeping money in your bank account. Instead of keeping all your cash in your checking account, you should only keep enough to cover your monthly expenses. You may want to keep a bit more than just enough to cover your bills. That way, you’ll be covered if you have an unexpected charge or a more costly bill than anticipated. How much extra should you have? It depends. For some people, a couple hundred extra dollars may be ideal. But for others, it may be a good idea to include a few hundred or up to an extra $1,000 in their checking accounts for extra wiggle room.But don’t keep every last dollar you have in your checking account. If you do, you’ll miss out on interest. Instead, move your extra savings into a bank account that accrues interest. With an interest-earning bank account, you’ll get rewarded as your cash sits in the bank. You could earn money with a savings accountMany people keep extra cash in a savings account. Review the bank’s annual percentage yield (APY) when considering a new savings account. This rate is the amount of money or interest you’ll earn over a year. The higher the APY, the more money you can make. You can take advantage of an attractive interest rate by opening a high-yield savings account. At the time of writing, the bank accounts on our best high-yield savings accounts list offer APYs ranging from 4.30% to 5.26%. If you have a significant amount of extra cash and keep it in an account like this, you can earn money without doing extra work. $5,000 in savings accumulates this much interest To determine how much interest you can earn by moving your extra cash to a savings account, multiply your initial deposit by the APY your bank account offers. This will show you how much interest you can earn by keeping your money in the bank for a year. Let’s imagine you have $5,000 extra sitting in your checking account right now. If you instead move that money to a high-yield savings account with an APY of 5% and you keep it in the bank for an entire year (and your APY doesn’t change; note that banks can raise or lower APYs at any time), you’ll earn $250. That’s much better than making $0 by keeping your savings in a checking account that doesn’t accrue interest. Now you can see why it pays to avoid keeping all your money in a checking account. You can earn extra money from interest by keeping your spare cash in a savings account that offers interest. For additional tips like this, check out our free personal finance resources.
3 Reasons I Don’t Like Aldi as Much as I Used To
By: Maurie Backman |
Updated
Sept. 13, 2023 – First published on Sept. 13, 2023
At some point in 2022, I discovered Aldi and began shopping there weekly. I found that I was able to save money on my grocery bill by purchasing certain produce items there. And since I happen to have an Aldi adjacent to my local Costco, it wasn’t particularly out of my way.But over the past few months, I’ve become less enamored with Aldi. Here’s why.1. The selection is just too limitedAldi — at least near me — is a minimally stocked grocery store. The shelves aren’t loaded the way they are at my nearby ShopRite and Stop & Shop.To be fair, this was the case when I first started shopping there. But because there’s just not a lot of selection, I’m generally limited to only buying a few items when I pop into Aldi.Not so long ago, I was running into Aldi for some fruit, which I usually buy there, and I needed to grab shredded cheddar cheese. Normally, I get that at Costco, but I didn’t want to run next door to Costco and wait in a line for cheese alone. Unfortunately, though, Aldi didn’t have the cheese I needed, so I had to make an extra stop anyway.2. The inventory is too inconsistentNot only is there a limited selection of food items I can buy at Aldi, but sometimes, I can’t even find the five or six things I’m looking for. Aldi was once my go-to source for avocados, since it’s an expensive purchase and Aldi tends to sell them for less than Costco (at least in my area). But the last few times I stopped at Aldi, avocados weren’t in stock.And that’s happened to me with other things, too. Over the past several months, I’ve struggled to find everything from cucumbers to strawberries at Aldi as well.3. What the store saves me on groceries, I lose via lost working hoursShopping at Aldi still has the potential to save me a little money on groceries. At a time when supermarket prices are up 3.6% on an annual basis, that helps.The problem, however, is that even though Aldi is right near Costco in my neighborhood, thereby allowing me to combine those trips, it still takes time to visit an extra supermarket. I have to find parking, wait in a checkout line, and spend time searching the shelves.While it’s nice to save $2 here and $3 there, the reality is that a stop at Aldi might cost me 20 or more minutes of work — especially when I don’t manage to find the things I need. And losing out on that work time often means forgoing more than $2 or $3 of income. So from a time perspective, it’s just not worth it.Shopping at Aldi could make sense for a lot of people. If you’re someone with flexibility in your schedule and grocery list, and you’re not so picky about the brands you bring home, then it could pay to spend the time visiting Aldi, even if you don’t always manage to find all the things you need. But I’ve reached the point where shopping at Aldi makes less and less sense for me, so I’ll most likely stop going there unless it’s a one-off basis.
7 Little-Known Gift Cards You Should Always Buy at Costco
By: Steven Porrello |
Updated
Sept. 29, 2023 – First published on Sept. 29, 2023
Costco gift cards are one of the warehouse’s best deals. Costco often will add 10% to 30% of value when you buy its gift cards in a bundle. It would be one thing if the gift cards were for places you’d never shop, like Bed, Bath, and Beyond (R.I.P.). But Costco gift cards are surprisingly varied and include many restaurants and retailers you’re probably already spending money with.So if you, like me, pinch pennies for your finances, here are seven gift cards you should always buy at Costco.1. Jiffy LubeCostco will add 25% of value when you buy a set of two $50 Jiffy Lube eGift cards for $74.99. While Jiffy Lube doesn’t offer the cheapest oil change on the market (Walmart will likely take the gold for that), its technicians do go through rigorous training via the Jiffy Lube University to ensure no accidental damage is done to your vehicle. If quality trumps price for your vehicle, this deal will save you $25 off your next oil change (limit of five per membership).2. Alaska AirlinesPacific Northwesterners will appreciate this deal — Costco will give you a $500 eCertificate to Alaska Airlines for $449.99. That comes to 10% off your next Alaska Airlines flight (limit of four per membership).3. Southwest AirlinesIf that was the first time you’d heard of Alaska Airlines, here’s a gift card package with a more familiar airline: Southwest. Costco will add 10% of value when you buy $500 of Southwest Airlines gift cards for only $449.99.4. Cinemark TheatresIn a great deal for moviegoers, you can buy a $50 Cinemark Theatres eGift card for only $39.99 at Costco. That’s an extra 20% of value that you can use for movie tickets, food, drinks, or merchandise (limit of 10 per membership).5. Miller PaintPainting your house ain’t cheap. Interior paint jobs will cost about $2 to $6 per square foot, according to the home improvement site HomeAdvisor, while exterior paint jobs can cost about $1.50 to $4 per square foot. To ease those costs, Costco will sell you $100 of Miller Paint gift cards for $69.99 — a whopping 30% of extra value.6. SpafinderIf you thought the cost of painting your house was bad, imagine how your back will feel after hours of painting walls. To ease that pain, Costco has an irresistible gift card deal: two $50 eGift cards for $79.99 to be used at thousands of spas and salons across the country. You can also use them at participating yoga and fitness studios (limit of 10 per membership).7. Synergy RestaurantsOne of the more interesting gift card packages I’ve come across, this extremely lucrative deal — two $50 eGift cards for a sticker price of $69.99 — will help you foot the bill at hundreds of local restaurants in numerous cities across Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas. This is perhaps one of the best deals I’ve seen and can be perfect for locals in those states and travelers who are visiting them.Most members don’t realize how many gift cards Costco actually sells. In fact, these seven packages only scratch the surface. Next time you’re at your local Costco warehouse, be on the lookout for gift card packages, which are often found at the ends of aisles. You might find a deal you can’t get anywhere else.
5 Amazing Costco Buys for Less Than $10
Costco is a favorite among bargain hunters. But because it’s a place where you typically buy in bulk, it’s often not great when you only want to spend a few bucks. Believe it or not, though, there are some deals at Costco for $10 or less. Here are five amazing Costco finds that will set you back no more than $10.1. Rotisserie chickenNot surprisingly, the $4.99 rotisserie chicken tops this list. Costco debuted its famed bird for $4.99 way back in 1994. It briefly raised the price by $1 during the Great Recession in 2008, then knocked it back down to $4.99 one year later. Had Costco raised its prices to keep up with inflation since 1994, that chicken would cost $10.48 today.Costco’s rotisserie chicken will always be a fan favorite for those looking for an effortless dinner. Just be aware: Costco keeps the prices low because its rotisserie chicken is what’s called a loss leader. The warehouse giant is willing to lose money selling them because it knows it can get customers into stores, where they’ll probably buy more than just a chicken.2. Hot dog and soda comboCostco has raised the prices of many of its food court items in recent years, but the price of one perennial favorite shows no signs of budging: the hot dog and soda combo, which has cost $1.50 since it debuted in 1985. Adjusted for inflation, the hot dog and soda combo should cost $4.28. Last year, during a quarterly earnings call, Costco chief financial officer Richard Galanti said the warehouse giant could keep the $1.50 price point “forever.”3. Kirkland Signature Creamy Almond ButterYou can use almond butter as a salad dressing ingredient, slather it on toast, put it in baked goods, or just eat it straight from the jar. If you’re the type who likes to devour almond butter by the spoonful, you don’t want to pass up a 27-ounce jar of Kirkland Signature Creamy Almond Butter, available for just $7.99. That works out to less than $0.30 per ounce. By comparison, a 16-ounce jar of Trader Joe’s Creamy Almond Butter Salted costs $6.99.4. Olde Thompson Kosher Sea Salt, 5 lbsSea salt has plenty of uses that go beyond cooking. You can use it for cleaning, as an exfoliant for your skin, and sprinkle it around your garden to keep unwanted bugs away. For just $5.99, you can score a 5-pound jar of Olde Thompson Kosher Sea Salt and keep it handy for all your household and kitchen needs.5. Bisquick Pancake & Baking Mix, 96 OuncesBisquick is another one of those things that’s handy to keep in your pantry. You can use it to whip up a quick batch of pancakes or waffles for breakfast or keep it on hand for a variety of baked good recipes. A 96-ounce box of Bisquick is available at Costco for $8.89. It’s normally priced at $10.99, but there’s a $2.10 manufacturer’s discount that’s good through Oct. 8, 2023.What are the best deals at Costco?Since Costco tends to sell large quantities, you’ll typically find that a lot of the best deals cost well above $10. Regardless of the exact price, it usually makes sense to buy products at Costco that have a long shelf life. For example, even if you find great deals on fresh produce and milk, you probably don’t want to load up on these items unless you’re feeding a large crowd, as they’ll go bad quickly.Also, make sure you look beyond the grocery department for savings. For example, getting your prescriptions from Costco Pharmacy or using Costco to fill up your gas tank could also save you money.If you want to maximize the benefits of your membership, try shopping with a Visa credit card that offers rewards. (Costco only accepts Visa credit cards.) That way you can earn travel rewards or cash back when you load up on groceries and other necessities.
5 Ways to Turn $100 Into Passive Income
By: Chris Neiger |
Updated
Oct. 1, 2023 – First published on Oct. 1, 2023
Creating passive income is one of the best ways to build wealth and protect your personal finances from an emergency, like losing a job or having your salary cut. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, about 20% of Americans have some level of passive income, with the average amount earned from passive income being $4,200 annually.Passive income strategies aren’t get-rich-quick schemes, and many initially require a significant time investment. The good news is that many can be started with $100 or less. Here are a few inexpensive ways you can start generating passive income.1. Buy stocksSome people think that owning stocks is only for rich people. It’s not. In fact, 61% of Americans own stocks, according to Gallup. And while you won’t get rich investing $100, you do have the potential to easily make money.You can open an online brokerage account for free and typically buy stocks for either little or no fees these days. The hard part is figuring out what company you think will do well over the long term so that you get the largest return.Let’s look at one popular company that many people own stock in: Apple. Let’s say you invested $100 annually over the past 10 years to buy Apple’s stock and reinvested any dividends you received to buy more shares. Thanks to Apple’s phenomenal growth over the past decade, your stock would be worth $4,848 — a 385% return on your investment.Of course, picking stocks can be difficult. If you want to potentially earn passive income in the market without picking specific stocks, you may want to buy shares of an exchange-traded fund (ETF). These funds follow market indices and can be purchased for as little as $1, thanks to online platforms that allow you to purchase fractional shares.2. Rent out an extra roomThis one is super easy and might cost you $0 if you already have the extra space. The latest Census Bureau data shows that 27.6% of Americans live alone. This means that many Americans may have a spare room in their home that could be transformed into a passive income stream.While it’s not for everyone, renting out a room in your home could be one of the easiest ways to generate passive income because you’re already in the space — either renting or as a homeowner — so all you need to do is find a roommate and collect their rent payments.This could be a very lucrative way to boost your income, considering that rent prices have skyrocketed over the past few years.3. Rent out your carWith 13% of full-time Americans working from home right now and 28% on hybrid schedules, many cars are sitting unused throughout the work week. With some planning and effort, your vehicle could quickly begin generating income through car-sharing websites like Turo.You can list your vehicle on the site for free and pay Turo a fee when you’ve rented out the vehicle. Turo says the average annual income for one car on its site is $10,516. Of course, some work is required to keep the vehicle clean and coordinate pick-up and drop-off. Still, renting out your vehicle could be a low-cost way to earn semi-passive income.4. Create an online courseMany people have accumulated many skills through jobs and even hobbies. You likely know how to get certain things done that someone else would find very useful — and pay for.There are many online platforms — including Udemy, Skillshare, and Thinkific — where you can create your own professional course and then sell it to an established online audience.You’ll need to do a fair amount of work upfront creating your course — including planning the sessions, recording videos, and making other content — but once you have it up and running, you can earn passive income from your hard work.Some course-creating platforms charge a monthly fee, while others may take a percentage of each sale you make. But while this option isn’t free, it’s certainly inexpensive.5. Start a dropshipping businessThere are many different businesses that fall under the dropshipping category, including selling T-shirts online or print-on-demand content like notebooks and journals.The startup cost for dropshipping businesses is low because you don’t buy any inventory and don’t have to rent an office or retail space. Instead, you’ll spend money setting up a website and potentially selling ads to market your products. You can even become a seller on Amazon and sell products without investing in your own online shop.You’ll have to invest significant time on the front end to build your business. Still, once you’ve found a niche and have established the relevant products, dropshipping allows you to spend minimal time keeping up the business while still making online sales.Keep these things in mindWhile all of these ideas will cost you little money and have the potential to generate passive income, you’ll still need to invest time and mental energy in setting them up. For example, you may need to do a lot of research before setting up a dropshipping business or launching an online course.Like anything worthwhile, be patient and take small steps to get started. You likely won’t be an overnight success, but making any progress toward generating passive income will move you further toward your personal financial goals.
When searching for apartments, there’s always so much to consider, like location, price, proximity to parking or public transportation and closet space.
However, there’s another factor to consider in the apartment hunt that has the potential to profoundly impact your day-to-day lifestyle: which floor is best to live in an apartment. There are benefits and drawbacks to all the different floors, from the ground floors to a top floor apartment.
Which floor is best to live in apartment buildings
What’s the best apartment floor to live on? The top-floor apartments have great views and privacy, but ground-level apartments are usually more affordable. In other words, there are pros and cons to living on a lower floor or a higher floor.
Pros and cons of living in a top-floor apartment
Like all things, there are important factors to consider about living in top-floor apartments, like if the building has an elevator to access the higher floors.
Pro: Less noise
Top-floor apartments rarely have to deal with noise coming from both outside of the building and inside from other tenants. However, if you’re a noisy neighbor, living on the top floor could create some potential problems with your downstairs neighbors on the lower floors.
Pro: Panoramic views of the city
The panoramic views from top-floor apartments are nothing to complain about. However, keep in mind that you might not need to seek out a penthouse apartment to get the views you desire. You might be able to see the same sights from the middle floors, which could save you money in the end.
When touring the apartment initially, observe the view so you can make an informed decision before signing the lease.
Pro: Increased security
One advantage of living on the higher floors of an apartment building is that it’s typically safer than lower-level apartments. Depending on the layout of the apartment building and its built-in security measures, basement and ground-level apartments can pose a higher risk of criminal activity and break-ins than apartments on the top floors.
If your prospective apartment is in a high-rise building with a doorman, is within a gated community, has on-site security or requires a FOB or code for access, crime is less likely to occur.
However, if you fear that criminals could easily access a ground-floor window without an alarm system or bars, you might consider “moving on up” to a higher apartment floor.
Pro: More exposure to natural light
Living on the top floor gives you added height and more exposure to natural sunlight. Natural sunlight is a great way to brighten up your place, especially if it’s a small floor plan. While natural light is great, it can also make your place hotter, so keep this in mind when you budget for utilities. You can also enjoy fresh air courtesy of higher-up breezes.
Pro: Fewer pests
Living on the top floor means fewer visits from unwanted pests and critters. Bugs and other pests typically live in or on the ground outside, so they’re more likely to infest apartments that are closer to where they live in nature.
Con: Added cost for rent and utilities
Apartments with the same or comparable floor plans are typically more expensive the higher up they are. And don’t forget that heat rises. That goes for utility costs, as well. Your monthly electric bill could potentially skyrocket in the summer, especially if you live in a warm climate, like the South.
If money is tight, you should strongly consider these factors when choosing which apartment floor to live on and rent. The abundant sunlight drenching your apartment coupled with the “heat rises” concept is sure to minimize heating costs in the winter. However, that same combination might drive up your air-conditioning bill in the summer.
Con: More difficult to access
Living in a top-floor apartment might be attractive, but how easy is it to get there? Does your building have an elevator, or are we talking four to five flights of stairs every time you come and go? How easy would it be to get to your apartment with two weeks’ worth of groceries?
Make sure to pay extra attention to the ease — or difficulty — of getting up to your place. Additionally, there’s the added element of the actual move in and move out, which results in lots of trips up and down the stairs. Keep in mind, apartments that are more than three stories high must have elevator access to meet ADA standards. On the other hand, walking up and down all those stairs does save you from getting a fitness center membership.
Con: Limited emergency evacuation options
Living on a higher floor can often make evacuating during a fire or natural disaster much more difficult than just walking down a few flights of stairs. Check out the evacuation route and plan for your apartment complex.
Will you be walking down 20 flights of darkened stairs filled with smoke? How many apartments and residents are below you that will also be evacuating at the same time? These questions aren’t meant to scare you, rather more to prepare you. It’s smart to have an emergency evacuation plan in mind when moving to an apartment, regardless of the floor.
Con: Building conditions may impact apartment
Most apartment complexes will have a maintenance team dedicated to the care and upkeep of the place. If you choose to live on the top apartment floor, you want to check out the conditions of the exterior roof and see if any damage has occurred that’ll directly affect your apartment.
Pros and cons of living in ground floor apartments
A ground-floor apartment, too, boasts some enticing amenities. When looking for the perfect place in an apartment complex, consider all that a ground-floor apartment has to offer to ensure it meets your wants and needs in a home.
Pro: Easier to access
The first floor of an apartment is ideal for bringing in heavy loads, such as your furniture when moving or that big trip to the grocery store. You don’t have to carry things all the way to the top floor. The ground floor might be the best choice.
Also, if your health will prohibit you from walking up and down the stairs frequently, ground-floor apartments are beneficial.
Pro: Reduced cost of rent and utilities
Living on the ground floor will help you save on utility bills. The lower floors make for a less expensive air-conditioning bill in the summer as the cool air naturally reigns in lower locations. Also, you’ll likely have less exposure to natural sunlight, which will keep your place cooler in the hot months of summer.
And sometimes, apartment complexes will offer lower monthly rent prices for the bottom level because it lacks the views some people desire. Apartments on the top floors always fetch higher prices because of the views. So, living on the bottom floor can help you save money on rent and utility bills.
Pro: More options for outdoor space
Living on a ground floor unit could mean easy access to outdoor space like a backyard or courtyard, which is great for tenants with pets, kids or people who love entertaining outdoors. This isn’t always the case, but it’s something to keep in mind when deciding which apartment floor you want to rent.
Con: Potentially more noise
While street noise might be a con in first-floor apartments, you also get the benefit of not having to worry about bugging a neighbor below you. If you’re the type who brings a recording of city noises with you on vacation so you can actually fall asleep, the ground floor might be your perfect place to land.
On the other hand, late-night vacuuming or the high-heel lover upstairs might get annoying for a first-floor dweller. Decide how much or how little noise you can tolerate from potentially loud neighbors before making the decision about which apartment floor to live on.
Con: Potential for more pests in the home
When you live on the ground floor, you’re generally more susceptible to getting unwanted pests than on a higher floor. This is a major turn-off for some renters. Pests can access the bottom apartment floor more easily, but if you don’t mind killing the occasional roach or have a great plan for pest control, you’re good to go.
Pros and cons of living in a middle-floor apartment
The top and bottom floors are both great options depending on what you’re looking for in an apartment rental, but when it comes to heating and cooling and worrying about the trek to and from the apartment, each showcases opposing extremes. As a result, the middle floors are, in a sense, just right.
Pro: Consistent bill price
The middle floor may not get a seasonal break from heating and cooling costs, but it usually sees a steady power consumption rate during each season. If you’re someone who likes to live on a steady budget, the middle apartment floor can help you plan a more stable budget.
Pro: Easier access to your home
While the middle floor has both top and bottom neighbors, it doesn’t demand a huge hike up the stairs. And if your building has an elevator, access is essentially a non-issue. Living on the middle floor gives you a little workout, but you won’t work up a sweat every time you go home.
Pro/con: Some noise levels
Mid-level apartment floors like those on the third floor aren’t exposed to street traffic noise. However, you’re surrounded by a lot of neighbors and foot traffic in the hallways is a trade-off there.
Choosing the right location to rent
Home is a place of comfort and peace, so you want to ensure it has everything you need to feel safe, secure and happy. Everything from the cost of the apartment to which apartment floor you choose is important. Not sure you want to live in a high-rise apartment building? Determine which type of rental layout is right for you.
The stigma attached to cockroaches makes them the nemesis of all apartment dwellers. Seeing roaches inside an apartment causes all kinds of issues, which is why nobody wants them around. Fortunately, there are concrete steps for how to get rid of roaches in your apartment.
Are roaches common in apartments?
The awful truth is that roaches are common everywhere. According to Pegasus Pest Control, cleanliness does play a role in what attracts roaches to a particular residence though. “There are living conditions that will suit cockroaches more. Like us, they need food and water to survive.”
Having a home where food gets left out or a kitchen with crumb-covered counters is a definite welcome sign for roaches. Things like dirty dishes left in the skink too long and even pet food sitting out in your dog’s bowl can both contribute to a roach problem. Especially in an apartment building where another tenant is on the messy side, if you’re not keeping things clean, the roaches already in the building may pay you a visit.
It’s best to assume all apartment buildings have roaches, maybe even a few different kinds. Whether it’s only a few or a larger population, behave proactively in your own space to keep them at bay.
What’s causing the roach issue?
You may lump all roaches into one category of creepy crawlies, but there are actually different types that can cause a cockroach infestation.
The most visible type are German cockroaches. These are small and light brown and don’t get longer than about 3/4 of an inch. You can identify German roaches by the two stripes visible on the plate behind their head. A German cockroach will live anywhere but prefers inner-city environments. These guys are pretty resilient to insecticides, so you may have to think outside the box when it comes to pest control tips. Making your own traps is your best bet.
Other roaches you may see in your apartment include the:
Brown-banded cockroach
American cockroach
Smoky brown cockroach
Oriental cockroach
Of course, the only kind of cockroaches you want to see are dead ones, but it’s never a bad thing to know more about what you’re dealing with.
Why do you have a roach infestation in your clean apartment?
Even if you’ve put all your food away and meticulously cleaned your kitchen, you can still end up seeing a roach or two. A clean apartment is a great way to deter roaches, but there’s something else they’re looking for that your apartment has no matter what — water. “Roaches need moisture to survive and this search for water will bring them into even the cleanest of homes,” according to Northwest Exterminating.
Leaky pipes or a drippy faucet, things you don’t associate with dirt at all, call out to roaches. It’s why you often see them in bathrooms in addition to the kitchen. Roaches eat a lot, but they also get thirsty. They can hide under refrigerators or air conditioning units to drink the condensation or even try to sneak a sip from a pet’s water bowl. Roaches may like dirt, but their needs are much bigger than grabbing a quick snack off your dirty dishes.
How to get rid of roaches in your apartment
Cockroaches are quick, sneaky and adaptable pests that are very hard to eliminate. They are also harmful to have around, as carriers of bacteria and other infectious agents, with the potential to contaminate food. Because of this, it’s important to address the issue immediately after you spot one of these unwelcome house guests. And yes, we’re talking about how to kill cockroaches.
While these are some of the most common methods to get rid of cockroaches in an apartment, you’ll most likely end up needing a combination of them in order to get a roach-free home.
1. Attract roaches using bait
Often the safest and most effective, baits work over an extended period of time to kill roaches. They’ll either kill on contact or use an unlucky few to carry the poison back to their buddies. Gels, bait stations and bait traps are available at most hardware stores, drug stores or supermarkets. Since roaches love nearby food sources, giving them bait to snack on instead of your own food can help prevent future infestations.
After you identify where the roaches are hiding, based on where you usually see them, place the bait, in containers, as close as possible. If you want the roaches to carry the bait back, make the container easy to escape. If you want them to stay put, consider jar traps. You can also target areas where food and moisture are most readily available. For any cracks or small areas, use gel bait. Change out the bait every three to six months.
2. Do a little dusting
Roach traps that use dust come in three different types — silica, diatomaceous earth and boric acid. The first two damage and desiccate a roach’s exoskeleton while the boric acid is toxic when ingested. This strategy is useful since they can get rid of roaches that simply walk through the dust.
The safest option is diatomaceous earth, which is a completely organic insecticide that actually kills roaches, fleas, ticks and bed bugs. It’s a great preventive option, as well, if you want to avoid a cockroach infestation.
To use, sprinkle a light dusting where roaches like to hide — inside cabinets, behind appliances and around cracks in kitchens and bathrooms. Reapply every three to four months.
Boric acid, while one way to get rid of roaches, shouldn’t necessarily be your go-to choice. Since it’s toxic, you don’t want to use boric acid in an apartment with pets or young children. Cockroaches must eat boric acid for it to do any damage, as well, so it might take longer to kick in.
3. Set a trap
Traps are for the brave souls who don’t mind dealing with the disposal of live roaches. You can buy them or make them at home. Sticky traps will stop a roach in its tracks and you can usually find them at your local hardware or drug store.
One homemade option requires a jar and some tempting food. Put a moist piece of bread and some slices of raw potato in an open jar. Then, line the inside walls of the jar with petroleum jelly and set in an area you’ve seen at least one roach. You’ll attract cockroaches with the food but they can’t climb back out. To dispose of the roaches you catch, fill the jar with soapy water and screw on a lid.
4. Use what’s in your pantry
It may surprise you how many ingredients you already have at home that will deal with cockroaches. Incorporating staple items from your pantry can make dealing with these pests quicker, cheaper and faster.
To really attract roaches to your bait stations, mix brown sugar and baking soda. The sugar will tempt the cockroaches to visit the bait and the baking soda will kill them when it’s ingested.
Although you’ll still need a shopping trip for this one, you can make your own dry bait stations around your apartment by mixing equal parts powdered sugar, yellow cornmeal and borax. Cockroaches will walk through the bait and then clean themselves, ingesting the poison. This bait is also toxic to humans and pets, so use it with care.
If you’re looking to repel these pests, think citrus. Roaches hate the smell. If you don’t have citrus-scented cleaners on hand to spray, strategically place citrus peel or even citrus pulp around your home. You’ll not only repel roaches but make your home smell sweet.
Using your own pantry ingredients to create effective bait stations for roaches is as simple as pulling out those staple items just about everyone keeps on hand.
5. Hire a professional exterminator to treat an infestation
This is an extreme solution ideally meant for an actual roach infestation. You should contact your property manager before going this route since your lease may include this type of maintenance. To be effective, an exterminator should spray the entire building, which is why you should loop in your property manager to handle the bigger picture.
If you’re wondering what your exterminator is spraying around your home, chances are it’s a combination of insecticide and insect growth regulators. This second ingredient works by disrupting how roaches grow and produce. It may not kill the adults, but it will stop new roaches from joining their parents. The insecticide will take care of the older guys.
What can I do to get rid of roaches forever?
While there’s no guarantee you won’t see a roach again, once you’ve gotten rid of them, there are a few tips to make sure you’ve gotten rid of roaches for good.
Alert your property manager that you’ve taken steps to deal with roaches in your own apartment. Since it’s most likely a building-wide problem, your property manager should take steps to have the whole building treated. If they don’t already have an exterminator coming in to get rid of roaches, it might be time.
Keep things dry, avoid clutter of any kind, even if it’s temporary and store food in plastic containers with tight seals. Sweep up crumbs, wipe down countertops and clean spills quickly. Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight and avoid having too many cardboard boxes laying around, as well. These all tempt new roaches to come exploring.
Make sure garbage is in tightly-sealed containers which you empty regularly.
Give your apartment a once-over for small cracks in doors, windows or walls. If you find any, ask your property manager to seal them or do it yourself if you’re able.
Get rid of soap bars and house plants. Cockroaches like these items, too. You can replace bar soap with liquid soap where possible, like at the kitchen sink and in bathrooms. If you want to keep your house plants around, smear a little petroleum jelly on the outside of the pots so it is too slippery for the roaches to climb.
Work in some light cleaning on a regular basis. You especially want to get out that vacuum cleaner at least once a week to remove potential food sources for cockroaches and keep your apartment clean.
Roaches are pests. They carry diseases and nobody likes them. But, you don’t need to battle to go from live bugs to dead roaches. These steps make it easier to prevent cockroaches from thinking your apartment looks like a sweet new place to call home.
Learn how to get rid of roaches in your apartment
The sad truth is, it’s not if you’ll see a roach in your apartment, but when. They’re most likely already living in the walls because they’re already everywhere. All you can do is expect a roach problem at some point and focus on keeping your home as uninviting for them as possible. And, if they do appear, be quick to get rid of anything that roaches consume or that may attract them to your apartment.
Since cockroaches aren’t the only pests that can invade your space as an apartment-dweller, practicing good habits to keep your home pest-free, in general, is always a good rule of thumb.
It’s a strange time in the world. People are looking for new companionship, especially if they have become permanent remote workers. And everyone is also looking to save a little money. Those are two of the reasons for a recent boom in pet chicken ownership. The “urban chickening” trend has reached all corners. This has left many wondering if a pet chicken is right for me?
The fact is, chickens make wonderful pets and feathery friends. And you might even get to enjoy a trove of fresh eggs along with it. But they’re certainly a far cry from dogs and cats. Pet chickens aren’t for everyone, but if you like the idea, the rewards are many. “They’re cute. They’re fun to watch run around. They’re excited when we come home,” reports pet chicken owners Robert McMinn and Jules Corkery of Queens, NY. What makes this Astoria couple interesting is that they are raising their three hens inside their one-bedroom apartment.
So, can you have a chicken in an apartment? The answer is a wholehearted, yes. But to do so takes time, patience, expense, space and permission, as well as the ability to do so in your location and climate. It’s obviously easier to raise a chicken in an apartment if you have a dedicated outdoor space to house them full time. But what about indoors? Indoor chickens are known as “house chickens,” and this is what it takes to own one.
Are you allowed to keep a chicken in your apartment?
Before you even consider purchasing or otherwise acquiring a chicken, you need to find out if you can even have a chicken in your apartment. There are two forces at work to find out — from your landlord and from the government.
Ask your landlord
First, you’ll need to find out from your landlord if they allow chickens, or birds in general, in your lease. If you aren’t allowed pets at all, the answer is probably no. If your apartment is pet-friendly, read your lease to see if it spells out what kind of pets or what size.
If you’re still unsure, contact the landlord or property manager directly to ask. If it’s not expressly forbidden in your lease, you can make the argument to allow them. Additionally, if you rent a unit that’s part of a homeowner’s association, make sure it’s allowed by that entity, too.
Ask your local officials
If your landlord permits chickens, you also need to find out if it’s actually legal where you live. Unfortunately, rules about chicken-keeping vary from municipality to municipality. The first step is to research rules for raising chickens indoors online. This is a good source to begin with.
For more information or to confirm, contact your local county, township or city hall. Ask for the best person with whom to speak to find the legal answer. Before you make your purchase, make sure every entity — your state, your county, your town, township or city — agrees on the legality. It may also require a call to a zoning board or local health department. Be sure you’re researching indoor rules, specifically. If there’s no ordinance prohibiting it, then you’re allowed as long as you follow other regulations like noise and sanitation.
And be aware. Even if keeping chickens is legal, some ordinances require you to get your neighbors’ approval.
Should you have a chicken in your apartment?
Even if you can raise a chicken in your apartment, there’s a question if you should raise a chicken in your apartment. There are many people, from veterinarians to enthusiasts, who believe it’s not good for the chicken to be indoors in an apartment. In the end, only you can decide if you feel it’s humane in your particular situation.
Pros of urban chickening
If you plan on keeping a chicken as a pet (as opposed to as an egg-laying machine), they make wonderful companions. Chickens easily adapt to your lifestyle, especially if you acquire them as chicks. Indoor chickens get used to being around you and will bond with you. Like any pet, they can learn to interact with you. Many chickens will be quite comfortable curling up with you on the couch and watching TV.
But like any pet, the more they get used to their indoor pet lifestyle, the harder it will be to change. Once you raise a chicken as an indoor pet, it would be unkind to send it away to live outdoors. A typical chicken lives an average of 10 years. Be ready to make that decade-long commitment.
Even if you aren’t raising chickens to save money on eggs, it’s still going to happen if yours is a hen. A hen, if that’s your choice, will lay around 300 eggs a year when properly cared for. And yes, the eggs are perfectly fine to eat. And may even save you some money. As an added bonus, hens lay eggs with a hint of the taste of whatever they themselves eat. Giving your chicken table scraps to eat will make your eggs taste like that.
Cons of urban chickening
But remember, chickens, by their nature, are outdoor creatures. Of course, they can adapt to living indoors, but they can often treat your indoors like the outdoors. They’re dirty, smelly and cause messes. They can eat indoor plants and peck holes in your furniture or floor. And, even with precautions, they can and will poop almost anywhere. They require a lot of time and effort. It’s up to you to discern the ROI.
Many enthusiasts turn to chickens as an alternative to traditional pets. But if allergies are a consideration, it isn’t any better luck. While no, chickens don’t have fur, many people are allergic to feathers, dust and dander. Be sure no one in the apartment is allergic before pulling the trigger.
As well, if you already have a cat or dog in the house, consider not adding a chicken. Most house pets aren’t used to being around fowl. They may scare or even harm your indoor pet chicken. And just because chickens aren’t flying birds doesn’t mean they can’t fly. Be aware that many chickens can fly or jump up to 15 feet or so.
What breed is best for an apartment and how many?
There is, of course, no standard “chicken.” Like any pet, you have a variety of breeds to choose from. The friendliest breeds are often the most adaptive to living indoors. Many are known as “lap chickens” because they’ll get used to sitting right in your lap. Some of the best breeds for house chickens include:
Silkie
Barbu D’Uccle
Sultan
Cochin
Bantam
Buff Orpington
Salmon Faverolle
Cochin
Easter Egger
Polish
Silkies are docile, very friendly and act quite quirky. Barbus are fairly small, easy to carry around and can learn to sit on your shoulder. Sultans enjoy the indoors and are often described as sweet and warm.
But chickens are social creatures. They’re born to run in flocks. Keeping fellow chickens as social company is crucial. Experts and breeders suggest never raising a lone chicken. In fact, it’s generally recommended to keep three chickens from the chick stage. That’s often how they’re sold, as well. This is to ensure that if one passes, the other chickens will still have each other.
What do you need to keep a chicken indoors?
While chickens are naturally outdoor creatures, you can still raise a chicken in your apartment like a traditional pet. Indoor chickens are as fun and cuddly as having a dog or cat. They can eat and sleep indoors, and interact with you as you go about your day. But keeping a house chicken is expensive, messy and difficult.
And chickens will bond with you just like cats and dogs. Many feel chickens are aloof or even unintelligent, but they are loyal pets. Your best bet for this is to buy chicks very young. The more you imprint on them from a young age, the stronger the bond. And to keep them happy, give them the best living and feeding situation you can.
Your house chicken’s living area
It’s vital to give your indoor chicken an environment for them to thrive. And that starts with a living area similar to an outdoor coop.
You can buy a specialty cage for your chickens, or even repurpose an old doghouse. Your setup should have a coop, a run and a nest box. The coop should also have a roost, raised a foot to a foot-and-a-half off the ground, high enough to jump to and low enough if they fall. The run should have sawdust and straw as that will also be your chicken’s litter box.
Your chickens should never be confined to or denied access from the coop, but rather given free access to it unsupervised. Their home should have four or five square feet per chicken. If they’re too crowded, chickens have been known to cannibalize.
The entire setup should be in an area least disturbing to both you and them. Chickens enjoy taking “dust baths,” covering themselves in detritus from the run. So, it’s advisable to keep it away from kitchens and bedrooms. You must also decide if the chickens have access to your entire space, or only to certain areas.
And lastly, artificial sunlight is also key, just as it would be to incubate an egg. There are many appropriate indoor avian lamps available. This helps keep their vision sharp and allows their bodies to create proper hormones. Keep these where your chick can sunbathe in the light.
Keep your indoor chicken’s living space clean
Clean the living area between one and three times a week. Your chickens will learn this routine and keep away while you’re cleaning. When you clean, remove the feces, replace the litter (compostable is an excellent option) and wash the floors and sides of each surface as well as the feeders and waterers. Use non-toxic soap and hot water. Wash your hands thoroughly immediately after cleaning or touching any areas. Minimizing salmonella germ spread is an important concern.
And if you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor space like a yard, patio or porch, you can set up their living space outside. But again, the chickens must have free access to it at all times.
What to do with your chicken’s poop
For the most part, your chicken will do their business in the litter area of the coop and run you have set up. Chickens are not cats, and won’t naturally seek out the litter. You can potty train chickens to do so, but it’s not simple. How tame and smart enough your chicken is to do so will make a difference, and you’ll have had to build trust.
Litter box training takes time and patience. And in the meantime, there is a lot of poop to clean around the house. And even after training, accidents will occur, so be prepared.
Additionally, yes, chicken diapers do exist. But experts say diapers are not a permanent option, but only for timely convenience. And keep in mind, that hens lay eggs from the general area from which they poop, which means poopy eggs in poopy diapers. And that’s no fun for anyone.
Feeding your apartment chicken
Your chicken’s primary dietary item is fresh pellets as chicken feed. The makeup of pellets will change with your chicken’s age and life stage. Additionally, you’ll need to add “grit” to the chicken’s feed. Broken oyster shells and small stones in their food help them to digest.
As well, your chickens need 24-hour access to fresh drinking water. You may provide this in a retail chicken waterer. It’s also recommended to add commercial poultry vitamins to the water.
Like any animal and any pet, chickens also love treats. Some favorites include dried mealworms, peeled and cored apples, alfalfa and plain yogurt. But every chicken’s favorite is corn. This is the recommended reward for chicken training. And chickens also love table scraps. Suggestions include pasta, green vegetables, dry cereals, raisins and bananas.
But be judicious with treats, especially ones high in fat. An overweight chicken can become sick very quickly. They will also produce low-quality eggs.
Getting your chicken outdoor time
So, you have decided having a house chicken indoors is the right choice for you. But to make sure it’s the right choice for them, too, your chicken must have significant outdoor time. Chickens, as mentioned, are outdoor creatures, and they won’t thrive stuck indoors.
Chickens thrive when given time to forage in a yard or in a park. If they start trying to eat bits of carpet or other non-food items around your house, that’s a sign they need more outside time. “They need to give themselves dust baths, which kills any body parasites and keeps them clean. It’s important for chickens to be able to scratch in the Earth for bugs, grubs, worms, etc.,” says Owen Taylor, city farms manager at Just Food.
Make time in your schedule for you and your chicken to take a walk outside every day. Possibly several times a day. Chickens need access to the outdoors, sunshine and grass as often as possible. It’s not required they run free in an enclosed area. You can even take them for a walk like a dog. Just be sure to purchase a chicken harness and avoid traffic areas.
Welcome to urban chickening
The answer to the question “Can you have a chicken in an apartment?” full-time indoors is yes. But the more important question is “should you?” That’s a decision you have to make dependent on your budget, time, patience, space, situation and permissions.
You’ll need to do significant prep and research before you jump into the world of indoor urban chickening. Read every website you can. Talk to breeders and fellow enthusiasts. And read up in books like “The Chicken Health Handbook.”
And if every light seems green, proceed cautiously, and enjoy getting to know and bond with your new house chickens. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly apartment in your city, be sure to peruse the listings at Rent..