Want to learn how to sell DVDs online and near you? Here’s how you can make extra money selling used DVDs.
Do you have a stack of DVDs taking up space in your home? If so, you can sell DVDs online as a way to declutter and put some extra cash in your pocket.
While you may no longer need or want the DVD, there are people still buying DVDs out there.
This guide on how to sell used DVDs includes tips on:
The best places to sell DVDs online
How to get started selling DVDs online
How to make the most money selling DVDs
How much you can earn selling used DVDs online
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started and teach you how to sell used DVDs online.
Related content on ways to make extra money from home:
Best places to sell DVDs online
There are many online platforms and vendors where you can sell DVDs. Before choosing a platform, make sure to find out what fees and payment methods (for example, some may only pay via trade-in credit, whereas others may pay cash) each website provides, as well as what the customer reviews say.
Here are the most popular options for selling DVDs online.
1. eBay
eBay is one of the largest online marketplaces and lets you list both new and used DVDs. You can set your own prices and choose between auction-style listings or fixed-price listings. eBay is user-friendly and the site is easy to navigate and create listings.
My sister has sold on eBay plenty of times, and it is easy.
It’s important to accumulate positive feedback as you complete transactions because it will improve your ratings, which increases your visibility on the website.
2. Amazon
Selling new DVDs on Amazon can be a great way to get started.
Amazon has a massive reach and customer trust. Everyone knows what Amazon is!
Sellers can list DVDs as individual items or in bulk. You can choose between an individual seller account or a professional seller account.
For individual sellers, this account is best for people who are not selling regularly. You pay per-item fees for every sale. A professional seller account is different. You pay a monthly subscription fee to have this account and it’s designed for people who are selling regularly on Amazon. With this account, you can list an unlimited number of products.
With Amazon, you can choose between Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) or Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM). Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) means Amazon will store, pack, and ship your products to customers. Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM) means you have to handle the fulfillment process yourself and ship products to customers.
There is also the Amazon Trade-In program that you may want to try too.
3. Decluttr
Decluttr is a platform that buys and sells items, including new and used DVDs. The website and mobile app are incredibly easy to use.
All you have to do is scan the barcode of your DVDs and you’ll get instant price quotes. Decluttr stands out from the other platforms on this list because the app provides a quick valuation process. This makes it quick and easy to get an idea of how much you can earn for your DVDs.
Decluttr even provides you with a free shipping label, so all you have to do is pack the items in a box and ship them to Delcuttr. Decluttr covers shipping costs making the process easy for sellers.
Keep in mind that you are likely to receive lower profits since Decluttr is doing a lot of the work for you. You will likely earn more money if you decide to sell directly to consumers on a different platform. But, you’ll also have to do more work on other platforms.
4. Bonavendi
Bonavendi is a website that lets you compare different platforms for your used items like DVDs. Bonavendi works as a price comparison tool so you can see which site will pay you the most for your item.
To find out how much you can receive for a DVD, all you do is enter the barcode of the item you’re selling. A list pops up with each platform and how much each site offers for the DVD.
This saves you a ton of time and helps you make more profit since you’ll know which platform is best for selling your DVDs.
5. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is an easy way to list DVDs to sell to local buyers in your town or neighborhood. If you already have a Facebook profile (which most people do), you can start creating listings immediately on Facebook Marketplace and in local buy and sell groups. Simply provide accurate information on your listing and maintain good communication on the platform.
Make sure to choose a public and safe location for the exchange, like a police station parking lot. You may even consider bringing a friend along or letting someone know where you are meeting this person. This is important when using Facebook Marketplace because you are personally meeting up with a stranger from the internet and exchanging money.
Facebook Marketplace is a great option for people who do not want to deal with the hassle of shipping and want to sell an item as quickly as possible.
6. Etsy
If you have collectible DVDs, Etsy is a great place for selling your items to a niche audience. Etsy is known for selling items that are handmade, vintage, or unique. Keep this in mind when you consider selling DVDs on this platform. You probably can’t just sell a DVD without it being unique in some way (although, I did check Etsy and I did see just normal DVDs listed on the site).
DVDs that are a good fit for Etsy should have a unique or collectible aspect. This could be a DVD with special packaging, limited editions, or signed copies by a director or actor.
7. Craigslist
Craigslist is similar to Facebook Marketplace as it allows you to sell to local buyers. It’s quick and easy to list DVDs on Craigslist. It’s also important to have good communication and be responsive to emails about your items. People generally like to hear back quickly (the same day if possible).
Once you’ve connected with a buyer, determine where you will meet and what time. Make sure to choose a safe location like a police station or public space. You may even want to bring a friend or let someone know where you are meeting the person.
One idea for Craigslist is to simply list all of your DVDs in a single listing, which can make it easier instead of making separate listings for each DVD that you have.
8. SellDVDsOnline.com
Sell DVDs Online is a platform that allows you to sell DVDs directly to SellDVDsOnline.com. The process is easy.
To get started, all you have to do is enter the DVD’s UPC code, which is usually on the back of the DVD by the barcode. You’ll receive an instant price quote. Sell DVDs Online offers free shipping and you never come in contact with customers.
9. EagleSaver
Eagle Saver is a website that lets you sell books, CDs, DVDs, and games for cash. Eagle Saver has a free app so that you can scan your DVDs and value your items faster.
Benefits of selling DVDs on EagleSaver.com include getting paid quickly, risk-free quote guarantee, no fees, and free shipping. With EagleSaver.com, all orders qualify for a free FedEx shipping label, tracking number, and $100 of packing insurance.
10. Yard sale
Though yard sales aren’t online, they are a quick way to get rid of your DVDs and blu-ray movies. You can gather all of your DVDs into one place so buyers can browse through them quickly. Price them competitively at $1 for standard DVDs or $2 for special editions.
Then, organize your DVDs neatly so buyers can go through them without any problem. You may even want to consider offering bundle deals, like “Buy 5 DVDs for $3”. This can encourage garage sale buyers to buy more DVDs.
To sell more DVDs, you could even have a DVD player and TV set up so you can demonstrate that the DVDs are in working condition. This is going to help the buyer feel confident and make their purchase.
Make sure to promote your yard sale through local community groups, local yard sale apps, social media, and by placing signs around your neighborhood.
11. FYE
FYE is an entertainment retailer that sells new and used music, DVDs, video games, and more.
While their online store is not currently accepting used items, most of their store locations currently are. You can use their store locator to find a store near you. This can be an easy way to sell your items in person by simply bringing a big stack with you.
How to get started selling DVDs online
Now, we’ll talk about how to get started selling DVDs online, so you can start making money from selling DVDs ASAP.
1. Gather your DVDs together
Grab all of your DVDs and sort them into one area. Go through each DVD and make sure they are in good condition with intact cases and minimal scratches. Open up the case, of course, and make sure there is a DVD in there (sometimes they disappear over the years).
2. Research what is selling
Do research and find out which DVDs are in demand and what they are selling for. Some of the sites above will give you an idea of how much you can get for a used DVD.
3. Pick a platform to sell DVDs
One of the most important steps on this list is choosing a selling platform. For example, Bonavendi is a great tool for comparing different platforms and getting the best price on a DVD. Facebook Marketplace or a garage sale may mean selling an item very quickly, though, and in person.
4. Create DVD listings and set pricing
If you plan on selling the DVD yourself, you will need to create a listing for each DVD. Make sure the listing is accurate, detailed, and has clear photos of the DVD, case, and any special features.
Next, you will set a competitive price based on the research you do. Keep in mind the DVD’s condition, rarity, if it’s a set, and market demand when pricing the DVD.
5. Payment methods
Once you know which platform you’re going to use to sell DVDs, make sure there is a secure payment method for the platform. If you’re selling DVDs on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, expect to receive payment as cash or through a platform like Venmo.
Personally, I would not accept a check for a small payment such as a DVD from a person I met on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist for example, as though are common scams.
6. Customer service
When selling used DVDs online, try to keep your reviews and ratings high on platforms by responding to questions and solving any problems (reading your reviews can also help you to improve your process). Remember, positive reviews are important for selling a lot of DVDs online so that future buyers can trust that your DVDs work. For example, if you have a lot of reviews that mention that the DVDs do not work, this may prevent other people from buying from you.
7. Shipping and packaging
Figure out how you want to ship, which carrier you want to ship with, and if you want to ship at all. You may prefer skipping shipping altogether and meeting customers in person to sell DVDs.
If you do decide to ship your DVDs, they need to arrive in good condition. Make sure to use proper packaging materials and be transparent about delivery times and shipping costs in your listing.
8. Keeping track of inventory
Whenever a DVD sells, take down the listing immediately if it isn’t done automatically. This is going to help you avoid any issues with other customers trying to buy the same item and save you time and headaches.
Best tips for selling DVDs online
Here is a list of the best tips for selling DVDs online.
Optimize your DVD listings by using high-quality images of your DVDs and writing clear and detailed descriptions
See what similar DVDs are selling for and set competitive pricing
Bundle similar titles and offer a deal to encourage buyers to buy more items at once
Be honest about the condition of the DVDs and disclose any scratches or missing items (like original cases or inserts)
Mention special edition DVDs and other collector’s items you have (if you have one of these)
Use multiple platforms to reach a broader audience
Provide tracking information to buyers
How much can you make selling DVDs online?
What you can earn from selling DVDs online depends on a few different factors, such as the condition of the DVDs, the rarity of the DVD, demand, which platform you use, and what’s trending in the DVD market.
Here are a few things that may impact how much money you can make from each DVD:
Condition – If your DVD is brand new, unopened, and wrapped in plastic still, the DVD may be able to be priced higher. However, if your DVD has scratches or dented cases, those things can impact pricing.
Market demand – If you have a DVD that is rare, a special edition, or a collector’s item, this DVD will sell for a higher price due to the rarity and increased demand for the item.
Platform – The platform you choose has a big impact on your profits. Some platforms have fees, some don’t, and others have more dedicated DVD collectors, while others don’t.
FAQs about selling used DVDs
Here are answers to common questions about selling used DVDs online and locally.
Are used DVDs worth anything?
Yes! You can actually make money selling used DVDs and blu-rays. If you have a DVD collection, you may want to think about going through it and seeing what movies you can sell. After all, with Netflix and Hulu being around, there’s a good chance that you haven’t touched your DVD collection in a long time.
How do I know if my DVD is valuable?
You can check some of the different websites that sell DVDs to see what they are selling for.
Where is the best place to sell DVDs? Where can I sell DVDs?
Some of the best places to sell DVDs online and locally include eBay, Amazon, Decluttr, Bonavendi, Facebook Marketplace, Etsy, Craigslist, SellDVDsOnline.com, Eagle Saver, and having a yard sale. A used bookstore may buy used DVDs as well. Some of the easiest online sites will work right from an ios or Android device too, meaning you can sell DVDs from your phone!
How much can you sell a used DVD for?
The amount you can sell a used DVD varies, but generally, you can earn about $0.50 to $20. It depends on what you are selling (for example, box sets or TV series usually will earn you more money).
You will want to think about costs for the different selling sites, as things like shipping fees can add up quickly.
You may receive money through PayPal, direct deposit, paper check, trade-in credit (yes, you may be able to trade in movies), store credit, or even cash by selling your old DVDs.
Is Decluttr a trusted site?
Yes, Decluttr is a trusted site to sell used DVDs online. You can even sell your used video games, textbooks, video game consoles, tablets, or old cell phones on this site too.
How much do pawn shops pay for DVDs?
Pawn shops usually pay around $0.50 to $5.00 for used DVDs.
Sell DVDs online – Summary
Now you can get started selling DVDs online and making extra money with this side hustle. Selling your used DVDs online has so many benefits, including decluttering, freeing up shelf space, and making extra cash for vacations or paying off debt.
If you’re no longer using your DVDs, put them to good use by selling them to people who want to buy them and use that money to reach your financial goals.
Have you ever sold DVDs online? What was your experience like?
In our latest real estate tech entrepreneur interview, we’re speaking with Jonas Bordo from Dwellsy.
Who are you and what do you do?
I’m Jonas Bordo and I’m the CEO and Co-Founder of Dwellsy, a free rental listing site where owners and property managers can get high quality leads for free and where renters can find a rental and make it home.
What problem does your product/service solve?
In recent years while I was leading central operations for Essex Property Trust, I saw it get more and more difficult for renters to find rentals as fraud on Craigslist exploded. At the same time, the pay-to-play ILS platforms consolidated and raised prices aggressively, causing their rental inventories to shrink and marketing costs to grow rapidly for multifamily and single-family owners and operators. All the while lead quality floundered.
Before Dwellsy launched, those owners and operators had no easy, free path to publicize their listings and get high-quality leads, and renters had no obvious tool to access a broad range of different rental options. Dwellsy fills that gap as a completely free listing service (free to list, and no charges for leads or leases) that makes it easy for renters to find their next home.
What are you most excited about right now?
Against the backdrop of the COVID 19 pandemic, I’m feeling very fortunate that Dwellsy is in a position to help America’s 110 million renters and more than 10 million owners and property managers.
For property managers, we’re a free tool to drive high-quality leads and lower their cost of marketing – much needed at this time. And for renters, we offer an incredibly broad and growing inventory, great search tools and true organic search – which will make any search for a new rental home or apartment more successful.
What’s next for you?
We had a huge year in 2019 – launched the business, built an amazing core team, went live with our initial product and started finding renters great homes and apartments.
2020 is going to be about broadening and deepening our reach and enhancing our product. We have almost 8 million units and a quarter of the NMHC Top 50 Property Managers listing with us today and we aim to increase that substantially. We have just started to welcome consumers to our platform this year, and we anticipate that growth in consumer traffic – and delivery of free leads to property managers – will continue to grow at a rapid rate this year.
We will also launch our first few paid products — for renters to help them conduct more effective searches and to help small mom & pop landlords list properties more effectively.
Of course, we will continue to offer the same free, high quality leads to owners & managers – that will not change.
What’s a cause you’re passionate about and why?
It’s hard to name just one, but top of mind today is the Housing Industry Foundation, which has done amazing work here in the Bay Area supporting renters in times of crisis over the years. They are all the more necessary now, given how many renters are struggling with affordability today.
Thanks to Jonas for sharing his story. If you’d like to connect, find him on LinkedIn here.
We’re constantly looking for great real estate tech entrepreneurs to feature. If that’s you, please read this post — then drop me a line (drew @ geekestatelabs dot com).
Inside: Dreaming of ways to make money fast as a woman? Stop dreaming and take action. These are genius ways of making money online and at home.
Making money fast is crucial for maintaining a comfortable lifestyle, especially in the face of rising living costs. It can be the key to financial stability, providing additional funds to support and enjoy your lifestyle.
As a woman, you need to know how to make money fast.
This isn’t just about getting rich quickly. It’s about women gaining the freedom to live independently without financial constraints.
The feeling of financial security lessens stress; not having to worry over unexpected expenses plays a big role in your overall well-being.
This is what you want to do – make money fast!
Good news! You are in the right spot and I’ll show you my favorite ways to make money online.
Get into the right mindset, ladies! Making money fast isn’t just possible, but also liberating.
How can I make easy money ASAP?
Making easy money quickly can be achieved in various ways that utilize your skills and knowledge.
First and foremost, consider your own skills and expertise, and determine whether they could apply to jobs like cake baking, childcare, bookkeeping, house cleaning, or freelance writing.
This will tell you the easiest way for you to make money quickly. For me, I prefer to trade options in the stock market. Whereas someone else may choose babysitting or dog walking.
You need to find how to make money fast and we will help you with that decision.
Why Making Money Fast is Important
1. Makes it possible to live comfortably 2. Enables you to afford the best quality of life 3. Gives you the freedom to pursue your dreams 4. Gives you the freedom to live without financial constraints 5. Provides you with security and safety 6. Freedom to give back to your community 7. Freedom to choose how you spend your time 8. Opportunity to take risks and start a business 9. Provides you with a sense of power and control 10. Live without financial worry
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
Are you passionate about words and reading?
If so, proofreading could be a perfect fit for you, just like it’s been for countless of readers! Learn how you can create a freelance business as a proofreader.
Check out this free workshop!
Bookkeeping is the most stable, reliable & simple business to own. This is how to make a realistic income -either part-time or full-time.
Find out TODAY if this is THE business you’ve been looking for.
How can I make a lot of money in hours?
Making income in a matter of hours for a woman is entirely feasible with a blend of freelancing, leveraging gig economy platforms, and capitalizing on your skills or assets. Here’s a quick guide for you:
Consider freelancing: Establish your writing, graphic design, or programming services on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.
Dive into the gig economy: Sign up for TaskRabbit, Airbnb, or Turo to start earning.
Try online tutoring or content selling: Proficient in any subject or have strong graphic design skills? Go for tutoring or sell your content.
Indulge in buying & selling: If you’re good at purchasing low and selling high, then swap clothes or furniture, or even stocks.
Take online surveys or join market research groups on sites like Swagbucks for a rapid source of income.
Remember, time management is crucial for balancing multiple streams at once. Don’t forget to schedule wisely!
How to Make Money Fast as a Woman
No matter who you are, making money can be tough. But if you’re a woman, it can feel impossible.
From getting paid less than men for the same job to having a harder time getting promoted, the deck is often stacked against us.
Just so you know that making quick money in one day won’t happen overnight.
So, I’m going to tell you the best ways to make money fast as a woman.
1. Sell Services
Selling your skills or expertise is a fast, viable way to earn money. It’s all about utilizing what you already know to provide value to others.
Identify your marketable skills, such as cake baking, freelance writing, bookkeeping or even organizing spaces.
Brainstorm which of these services people could pay for.
Remember, you can tap into both physical tasks, like house cleaning or pet-sitting, and digital ones, like creating digital printables or offering consulting in your field of expertise.
Expert Tip: Launch your service with a few testimonials, helping to build trust with potential customers from the get-go.
2. Freelance
Freelancing is a savvy way for women to stack up earnings fast, offering flexibility and complete control over the workload. It’s a ticket to dodge conventional office politics and punch above your earning potential.
Start by identifying your freelance niche. You can be a writer, graphic designer, or anything you’re skilled at. Many people use their transferable 9-5 skills to side hustle.
Then, create your profile on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork or Guru – be sure to showcase your accolades.
Set your rates, then start connecting with clients looking for your talent.
Remember, success in freelancing is driven by quality and consistency. So, sharpen your skills and always exceed your client’s expectations.
Freelancing may start as a side gig, but with dedication, it can grow into a full-time job.
3. Become a Product Reviewer
Being a product reviewer is an intriguing job opportunity for those who enjoy sharing candid feedback about their experiences with various products.
As a product reviewer, you are required to assess products often sent to you from diverse companies.
Your role involves providing a comprehensive review that could range from making an unboxing video to writing a detailed article about the product’s features and performance.
This kind of job requires an unbiased perspective and the capacity to articulate your thoughts and experience in a detailed, user-friendly manner.
Companies value this form of direct feedback as it provides them with significant data about their product’s strengths and weaknesses as perceived by an end-user.
4. Virtual Assistants
As a woman, becoming a virtual assistant could be your fast lane to earning a substantial income.
This is especially a great option if you’re excellent in organization and time management along with the need for flexibility.
For many becoming a virtual assistant with no experience is possible. And very lucrative.
Finally, for your best shot at success in this field, taking a course to improve your learning curve is extremely helpful.
Potential to earn up to $43,000 per year.
5. Sell Your Crafts
Ladies, have you thought of turning your love for crafts into a profitable venture?
Find out what crafts are in demand. The higher the demand, the more profitable it would be to make and sell these crafts.
Remember, profitability hinges on what you sell and how much you sell. Happy crafting!
While you are limited on what you can earn by what you can make, it is possible to make money doing something you absolutely enjoy.
6. Stock Trading
Stock trading may seem daunting but it can be a quick route to financial independence, especially for women.
With the right tools, information, and mindset, you can swiftly navigate the market and amplify your earnings. In fact, this is something Teri Ijeoma did herself.
Educate yourself on the basics before you invest. This is exactly what I did and my investment has paid off.
Always be aware of the risks involved in stock trading and proceed cautiously. However, building up an investing education is a wise decision.
Learn how fast can you make money in stocks.
7. Babysit
Babysitting is a versatile side hustle offering flexible hours and good earning potential.
It’s an ideal opportunity if you’re seeking quick, extra income and enjoy children.
Obtain optional certifications like CPR and first aid to enhance your appeal. Visit platforms like Care.com, Sittercity, or Urbansitter to create your profile and connect with clients.
8. Transcriber
One field that remains highly overlooked is transcription.
A transcriptionist listens to audio files and converts them into written documents.
Gain a thorough understanding of the industry. Check out this free webinar to get the basics right.
Consider specializing in legal or medical transcription. These niches often fetch higher wages.
You could easily make $3000-$4000 monthly, working on your own schedule.
Remember, practice and precision can help you achieve a lucrative transcription rate.
9. House Cleaning
Cleaning can be a rewarding gig, especially if you like tidying spaces.
Despite recognizing the need for a clean home, many people often struggle to find the time or energy to routinely clean their homes. This is where the prospect of a housecleaning business arises.
Busy homeowners, parents juggling work and childcare, elderly individuals needing assistance, and even businesses needing regular cleaning services are all potential clients for a housecleaning business. This demand provides a consistent income flow for those offering cleaning services.
In fact, individuals transitioning into this field of work can negotiate their wages with clients, potentially earning more than $15 an hour based on the complexity and demands of the job.
10. Sell Printables on Etsy
Selling printables is an effective and lucrative method to generate passive income.
Once printables such as planners, calendars, and journals are designed, created, and listed for sale on platforms like Shopify or Etsy, they can consistently produce income without requiring continual input or maintenance.
According to several experts, one of the keys to making substantial profits from printables is to differentiate your products.
Building upon this idea of making money from printables, the free Printables Workshop by Gold City Ventures offers comprehensive insights into the process of creating and selling aesthetically pleasing printable products online. This accessible course can be an excellent starting point for beginners looking to navigate the printables market.
Selling printables on Etsy might be the perfect venture for you!
11. Dog Walking
Looking for a fun-filled way to make some quick bucks?
Dog walking could be the right side hustle for you, especially if you’re an animal lover.
Easy to find jobs for dog walking.
Suitable for people with flexible schedules.
Offers an active way to earn money.
Option to select your rates with platforms like Rover.
High demand especially due to increasing pet adoptions and busy pet owners.
You can work when you need to and not take clients when you don’t want too.
12. Make Money Blogging
Blogging is a popular and prevalent way to earn money. Many blog owners are women who want the flexibility to earn significant money at their own pace and schedule.
Earning money through blogging allows you to focus on something you’re passionate about. Any topic that can provide value to an audience can be blogged about. Targeting a niche that has been overlooked by existing blogs can increase your blog’s potential earnings.
Starting a blog doesn’t require formal training, but it does require a willingness and ability to write effectively for an audience.
By employing monetizing avenues, like affiliate marketing and advertising, a blogger can boost their earning significantly.
Despite the vast number of existing blogs, the industry is very accommodating toward new voices, especially female voices. Thus, knowing how to monetize a blog can offer women many opportunities.
Remember, blogging is not just about earning fast bucks, it also needs consistent efforts. It’s rewarding but can start slow.
13. Ride-Sharing
Ridesharing is an excellent opportunity for women looking to make fast money. With apps like Uber and Lyft, you can earn an income simply by offering transportation services.
Here are a few tips to increase your earnings:
Consider driving during peak hours, weekends, or during special events to cash in on higher demand.
Choose busy locations such as city centers and nightlife spots to increase your chances of getting rides.
Maintain good customer service and ensure safe driving to uphold your rating and receive more ride requests.
14. Office Cleaning
Considering the hustle and bustle of the daily grind, office cleaning can be an untapped treasure trove for women seeking quick cash. Given the high demand and flexible hours, it’s an ideal source of extra income.
You must identify office premises needing cleaning services. Reach out to the owners or management, and propose your services.
Think about offering your services to offices in your local area. It’s a fast way to make extra money while managing your other commitments.
15. eBay Arbitrage
Looking to earn some quick money? eBay Arbitrage could be the game-changer you need.
Aimed mostly at women who love shopping, it’s about buying products cheaply and selling them on eBay for a profit.
First, hunt for bargains in thrift stores, sales, or online markets.
Go with high-demand items; electronics, collectibles, or brand sneakers are a good start.
Then, create your eBay store and list your finds at a competitive but profitable price.
Track each item’s demand through keyword research and buyers’ reviews.
Remember to calculate potential profits inclusive of shipping costs and eBay fees.
Armed with the right strategies, you can start earning with eBay in no time!
16. Freelance Writing
Did you know your writing passion can become a quick buck-making engine? That’s right, freelance writing is a gold mine you ought to tap.
First, identify a writing niche you love. It’s easier to excel when you’re passionate about your work.
Continually hone your writing skills. The more you practice, the better you become and the more valuable your skills. Finally, don’t be shy to market your skills. Reach out to small businesses and startups—they often need freelance writers.
Remember, quality over quantity will earn you a solid reputation in the long run. Now, go turn those wordy wonders into wealth!
17. Online Surveys
Curious about making a quick buck? Engaging in online surveys can be a fast money-making method just for you!
You don’t earn a huge amount per survey but when taking multiple surveys, it will add up fast.
Here are the top legit survey platforms:
Use your free time wisely. Take surveys during work breaks or leisure hours.
Redeem points for PayPal cash or gift cards.
18. YouTube Channel Building
Building a YouTube channel can be an interesting and rewarding venture.
It provides an incredible platform to share your content, express your creativity, and engage with a global audience. Whether you want to showcase your talents, teach something unique or simply entertain, having a YouTube channel opens up many opportunities.
Effective engagement with your audience is vital.
Last but not least, patience is something you will need in abundance. Building a successful YouTube channel takes time, so don’t lose hope if you’re not seeing immediate results.
Remember, there’s no limit to what you can achieve with your YouTube channel. It all comes down to how creatively you can use this platform to engage with your audience and grow your presence.
19. Bookkeeper
In our increasingly digital age, online bookkeepers are in high demand, with more businesses choosing to move their financial operations to the online platform. This shift in business operations has created a robust opportunity for those trained in bookkeeping to tap into the market and earn income while working from the comfort of their homes.
To be successful as web-based bookkeeper, you need to be well-organized and have previous experience dealing with numbers. However, even without a formal accounting education, individuals can take advantage of online learning platforms like Bookkeepers.com to learn and sharpen their bookkeeping skills for free.
Becoming a virtual bookkeeper is not just a fantastic full-time job opportunity; it’s also an excellent side hustle for women and mothers proficient with numbers. It provides flexible hours and allows the freedom to work from anywhere, making it ideal for those juggling multiple responsibilities.
The financial compensation for an online virtual bookkeeper is quite significant. On average, bookkeepers can earn at least $50000 a year helping business owners manage their finance and bookkeeping online.
20. Start a Dropshipping Store
Dropshipping is a viable option with low startup costs that lets you run an online store without handling any physical products.
There is still plenty of time to get into the dropshipping business.
Start by deciding what products to sell. Find a niche you’re passionate about for a higher chance of success.
Remember, a successful dropshipping venture involves effective marketing as well. So invest time and effort into perfecting your advertising tactics.
21. Do Clerical Work
Clerical work offers flexible, remote opportunities for women to make quick money.
With adequate admin experience and internet access, you can explore roles like Virtual Assistant, Online Data Entry Professional, or Court Transcriptionist.
This is one of the best non phone work from home jobs.
Experts tip: Perfection and punctuality are key. Attention to detail and meeting deadlines can make you stand out.
22. Resell Clothes
Reselling clothes online is a savvy way to turn your clutter into cash, especially if you love digging for hidden gems.
It’s a popular method for fast cash flow, with Poshmark and Facebook Marketplace being perfect platforms. One of my friends is very successful with this!
Begin with your own closet, and sell kids clothes they have outgrown too.
Reinvest your earnings, by buying second-hand clothing to resell can boost your profits.
Don’t forget quality. Run a quick check for authenticity and brand labels.
Visuals sell. Stage items and capture high-res photographs.
Providing a great customer experience is key, ensuring prompt shipping and maintaining politeness.
Play your cards right, you could earn anywhere between $100 to $1,000 a month or even reach a six-figure yearly income.
23. Do Home-Based Child Care
Home-based child care is a viable option to earn money, leveraging the natural maternal instincts and caregiving skills of many women. It can be a lucrative side hustle and a means to financial independence.
This is especially a great avenue to pursue when you are already at home raising your own children.
Make sure to follow any state regulations about running a daycare out of your home.
Begin by determining the number of children you can handle at a time, taking care not to overbook.
24. Podcasting
Podcasting is a wonderful opportunity for delivering narratives. It enables you to weave compelling stories while inspiring, instructing, or simply entertaining your listeners.
The unique format of podcasting lets you connect with your audience on a personal level. They listen to your voice, engage with your thoughts, and feel a stronger connection to you.
By starting a podcast, you are joining an increasingly popular trend, with the global number of podcast listeners has grown to 464.7 million listeners in 2022 (source).
Podcasting also opens up doors for networking and collaboration. You can invite experts, artists, or like-minded individuals as guests on your show, thus expanding your network.
There’s a potential to earn from podcasting. With affiliate marketing, sponsorships, and advertising, the commercial possibilities of podcasting are extensive.
25. Merch by Amazon
“Merch by Amazon” is a print-on-demand service that allows you to design and sell your merchandise.
It’s a great money-making alternative as it offers massive exposure and doesn’t require any upfront costs.
One of the significant advantages of using Merch by Amazon for passive income is that you are not required to maintain inventory or deal with shipping. Amazon handles these aspects, allowing you to focus on the creation process and customer satisfaction.
Amazon’s royalty system ensures that you get paid instantly whenever your merchandise is purchased. This allows you to earn money passively with every sale.
When your designs meet the current market trends and the preferences of your customers, they are more likely to be popular, leading to an increase in sales, hence, higher passive income.
26. Become an Influencer
Becoming an influencer is a smart, quick way for women to make money. While most people just stumble upon becoming an influencer, you can decide to pursue this avenue.
With earning potential that is unlimited, this opportunity is flourishing, requiring no specific degree or job experience.
Remember, platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube reward new, engaging creators.
Dedication and consistency could lead you to major earnings where you make thousands for each post.
27. Work as a Translator
Having mastery in more than one language opens up a world of opportunities, particularly in the realm of translation services. The ability to translate language effectively and accurately is a skill that’s in high demand in the current globalized world.
A top benefit of being a freelance online translator is the flexible work environment. You have the freedom to choose when, where, and how much you want to work. This flexibility for work-life balance is more appealing now than ever, especially in the unsteady job market.
Freelance translators also have access to a wider client base. Unlike full-time translators who work for specific organizations or agencies, freelance translators can work with various clients from all over the world, widening their potential income streams.
The need for translators is projected to grow substantially. In the United States alone, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment for interpreters and translators will increase by 20% from 2021 through 2031, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
Among other freelance professions, translation can often provide a more stable income.
As most sectors including education, legal, business, medical, and technological firms continue to globalize, they regularly need translators to bridge the language gap, making freelance translation services a steady income source.
31. Become a Flipper
Becoming a flipper is a high-return, low-investment way to make money fast. It involves buying low and selling high, perfect for those wanting a profitable side hustle.
Here are actionable steps to kickstart your flipping journey:
Identify items to flip: Popular options include toys, clothes, electronics, books, and furniture. Pro-tip: Sell things you have around your house to start risk free.
Choose a selling platform: Sell locally via Facebook groups or Craigslist, use reselling apps like Decluttr, or open an online store on eBay.
Price it right: Pricing items competitively garners buyer interest and maximizes profit.
Learn more: Free webinars, like Flipper University and the Flea Market Flipper, offer insights for a successful flipping business.
Remember, flipping can be more than just a side hustle; it’s a potential full-time career.
32. Micro-Tasking
Micro-tasking offers a quick way for you to earn money by completing short and simple tasks.
As its popularity grows, so does the list of platforms where you can find micro-jobs. Here are the popular platforms.
This allows your the flexibility to work whenever you want. Plus no special skills or degrees are needed.
Just note… This is not a stable income source
Tips for Finding the Best Way for You to Make Money
As you can see, there are many different ways to make money fast as a woman.
You can find the best way for you by considering your skills, interests, and the amount of time you have available.
Here are some helpful tips to make sure you are earning money quickly.
1. Identify Your Skills and Offerings
You’re already gifted, let’s transform those skills into fast cash.
Make a list of your skills, passions, and expertise; you can tap into anything from programming to knitting.
That is where you want to start.
From personal experience, I can tell you it is way easier to work on a side hustle or business when you are passionate about the topic.
Remember, the digital world is your playground, so play, innovate and cash-in.
2. Research the Best Ways to Make Money
Now, that you know the skills and experience, look at the list above and determine which ones match up.
You will need to spend time watching a free webinar to learn more.
Compare different money-making ideas. From part-time jobs to freelancing, there’s a plethora of options. You need to pick what works best for you.
Remember, generating a consistent income requires effective strategies and the right mindset. So choose wisely!
3. Try Different Ways to Make Money – Not Just 9-5 Jobs
It’s vital to explore different money-making strategies as a woman for financial stability and independence.
Just because one avenue didn’t work out doesn’t mean you should throw in the towel.
Remember, the key to success is perseverance, so pick something you’re passionate about and stick to it. Try not to jump from one idea to another out of impatience; success takes time.
Also, as your revenue increases, start building a lifestyle business for passive income.
4. Focus on the Things You Are Good at
Unlock your financial potential by recognizing and utilizing things you’re excellent at.
To cash in fast:
Identify your standout skills. These could range from writing, fine arts, math, e-commerce to digital marketing or even passions such as sports and hobbies.
Assess the viability of earning via your skills. Research shows that the digital economy is filled with opportunities.
Exploit platforms that cater to your expertise. For freelance gigs, you can try platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Guru.
There are so many ways to make money online as a beginner. So, indulge in the digital playground, embrace exploration and innovation, and let your skills earn for you.
5. Find Opportunities That Allow You to Work Flexibly
You can choose when to work and when not to, rather than being constrained by a 9 to 5 workday. The flexibility to create your schedule means you can operate at your most productive times, whether that’s early in the morning or late at night.
Working from home or any location across the globe enables a better work-life balance, reducing stress and improving productivity. This is particularly beneficial for those who have families or are committed to other obligations.
When working for yourself, you may have the potential to earn more than traditional salaried roles.
Lastly, making a living from your passion is huge!
You are being paid to do what you love anywhere, anytime which is rare and precious.
6. Consider Specializing in a Niche Subject
Specializing in a niche subject can elevate your earning potential quickly, owing to smaller competition and a personalized audience.
Being a subject matter expert in a specific area can provide you with an edge over your competitors.
Specializing in a niche can help you stand out and garner a dedicated audience, ultimately leading to faster earnings.
Remember, the key to making money faster in your specialized area is persistence and patience. It may take time to build a strong following, but once you do, the financial rewards can be substantial.
Stick to your chosen area, continuously learn and improve, and consistently deliver high-quality content to make your mark in your chosen niche.
7. Take Advantage of Trending Opportunities
Jumping on trending opportunities can be a gold mine, especially for women who want to make money fast from home. These ever-evolving trends tap into various skill sets, interests, and experiences, potentially translating into a lucrative gig.
For many, it may have been TikTok when the company first started.
Remember, the digital world holds limitless potential. Just needing to innovate and execute your ideas!
8. Invest in the Right Tools and Equipment
The key to making money, either online or offline, is making an informed investment of your time into the right tools, equipment, and learning resources.
While this can initially seem like an expenditure rather than a money-making step, it is, in fact, a cornerstone of your financial growth strategy.
Investing time in learning and increasing your knowledge base is vital. This could mean spending your time reading about new insights in your area of work, attending webinars, or enrolling in online courses. The ROI of this proactive learning is immense.
Consider this an opportunity or a catalyst that speeds up your journey toward substantial income generation and financial freedom.
9. Commit to Consistent Efforts
Commitment to consistent efforts is the cornerstone of any successful endeavor, more so when running your own side hustle.
One of the fundamental principles for making money is the dedication to keep improving your craft, always learning, and always evolving.
This continual effort involves a long-term commitment to staying updated with the latest writing trends, styles, and industry standards.
With persistence and patience, the fruition of your investments will lead you toward the fulfillment of your financial dreams.
10. Utilize Social Media Platforms to Promote Your Business
Social media platforms are powerful tools for business promotion, and when used strategically, they can lead to fast monetary gains.
Understanding how to effectively utilize these platforms can drastically enhance your chances of making quick bucks.
Start by creating a robust online presence for your business on various social media platforms. Remember, consistency is key to building your brand.
Engage with your audience frequently and respond to their comments. This boosts engagement on your posts.
Post content that is engaging, relevant, and aligns with your business values.
Always monitor your performance using social media analytics to understand what works best for your audience.
Which side hustles for women have you tried?
Personally, here are the side hustles I have done or currently do:
Stock Trading as a swing trader
Online Content Creation
Social Media Influencer
Online Consulting
Pet Sitting or House Sitting
Teaching Dance Lessons
Personal Organizer
However, I know many people that have tried the ones listed above.
So ladies, which of these enticing hustles appeals to your skills and schedule the most?
FAQ
Stay-at-home moms have numerous opportunities to earn money from the comfort of their homes. Plus being able to bump up your household income while juggling parenthood is the perfect combination.
Find the best jobs for moms specifically!
Any of these opportunities requires dedication and consistent effort, but with time they can all yield substantial returns.
Thankfully, there are many ways for women to make money online.
Above we covered all of the interesting ways and many are online.
Remember, opt for an avenue that suits your skills, interests, and time availability.
Well. the answer to this will depend on who you speak with.
Personally, I find ways to build passive income with your side hustle as the best option. Then you aren’t trading your time for money.
As a woman, many opportunities are right at your fingertips. The most popular and profitable include:
Start a blog: With consistent readership, you can make thousands from ad revenue and sponsored content.
Virtual assistant: Services can fetch around $10-30/hour.
Social Media Management: Businesses are willing to pay up to $1000-2000 per month for proficient managers.
Bookkeeping: On average, freelance bookkeepers earn around $34/hour.
Selling products online: Sites like Etsy, Amazon FBA, or your own platform can earn you a substantial income with a successful shop.
Trading Stocks or Options: by improving your investing knowledge, you can quickly increase your net worth.
Remember – it all starts with a step. Your side hustle could turn into a full-time passion!
This is How to Make Money from Home as a Woman
In conclusion, as a woman, there are plenty of genius and fast ways for you to make money.
The article underlines the significance of grabbing the reins of your financial future.
Through the strategies shared – including investing in stocks, working from home, or using budgeting hacks, you can boost your income significantly.
One of the concepts, I’m big on is making sure you know how to make your money work for you.
With wise decisions and being open to possibilities, your financial independence is within reach.
Remember – the ball is in your court, so make sure to take that shot and score your financial goals. It’s high time to cash in on your potential!
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Inside: Are you moving into your first apartment? Planning a move can be daunting, but with this checklist, everything will be ready for your bed and bathroom you arrive. From a mattress, pots and towels to cleaning supplies and furniture, this list has it all. This is a huge deal!
Moving into your first apartment is an exciting time!
You’re finally out on your own, and you get to decorate and furnish your space however you want.
But before you can start shopping for all the cute home décor, there’s one very important task that needs to be taken care of first: creating a First Apartment Checklist.
This comprehensive checklist will ensure that you don’t forget any essential items when furnishing your new place. From kitchen supplies to bathroom necessities, we’ve got you covered.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!
My First Apartment Mistakes
Moving into your first apartment indeed marks an exciting milestone in life.
However, it is also a moment of awakening when realizing that filling the apartment with all the necessities is not child’s play. My lesson learned the hard way.
It requires great planning and acute mindfulness of one’s budget. While the thrill of setting up your own place can easily lead to overspending, it’s important to keep the budget in check and be judicious about your purchases.
Here are some aspects to consider:
It’s easy to forget that there’s a huge list of big and small things you’ll still need to buy to fully equip your space. However, the keyword here is “need” and not “want”. I should have been better at differentiating between what is absolutely necessary for your immediate living situations and what can be procured later.
Define what you can spend right away by considering the moving costs and other related expenses. After setting the budget, the next most important step is to stick with it. You will be tempted to stretch your limit, but remember that financial restraint is key.
Moreover, remember that you don’t need to get everything right away, certain things can wait. Spend wisely, and stick to immediate needs. You might be surprised to find out that some items you thought were essential, in fact, can be comfortably lived without.
Your home is meant to give comfort, not financial stress.
The above statement is a lesson that stick with you for a long while. Keeping track of your expenses and making wise decisions can help establish your first apartment without breaking the bank.
Learn is $5000 enough to move out?
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Big Items for Your First Apartment Checklist
You’re finally out of your parents’ house and ready to start your own life. Congrats!
This is an important step when you want to move out at 18.
Moving into a new place is both exciting and daunting. To help you make sure you have everything you need for your new digs, we’ve put together a first apartment checklist of all the big items you’ll need to buy.
This is where to focus your money or look to find free items.
1. Mattress
Living in your first apartment?
Do not underestimate the importance of a good mattress.
It’s the foundation for quality sleep, which is crucial for your health and daily performance. Investing in one is non-negotiable even if budget is a constraint.
Personally, this. is the one item I would say to buy new! Thankfully you can find affordable mattresses now.
2. Bed Frame & Headboard
You may be tempted to skip the bed frame in your first apartment, but it’s a key piece that offers myriad benefits.
In full honesty, I didn’t get a headboard for my mattress until well after I was married. But, it was one small thing that made me happy.
Popular bed frame options vary in price from $60 for a simple metal frame to over $200 for wooden or upholstered models. Make sure to evaluate your needs and budget before buying.
3. Couch
Your first apartment is exciting, and the right couch can really set the tone. It’s not only a seating arrangement but also a place for relaxing, entertaining, and unleashing your personality.
When setting up your first apartment, you might be conflicted about whether to buy a new couch or look for a used one. Here are some factors to consider:
For those living by themselves:
A new couch can be a significant investment, but it is worth the cost if you value personal comfort, hygiene, and aesthetics.
Utilize discount stores to find quality furniture that is within your budget. A new couch often comes with warranties or protection plans that can give you peace of mind for any potential repairs or damages.
Investigate measurements and delivery options thoroughly to ensure your new couch comfortably fits your apartment layout.
If you are planning to live with a roommate:
You can consider getting a used couch. This is a great way to cut costs during a time when budgeting and saving money are important.
To make sure the couch you’re acquiring is clean and pest-free, buy or get it for free from trusted sources. Friends or family are often the best people to approach when looking for used furniture.
Look into garage sales or online platforms like Craigslist for options. However, always inspect the couch thoroughly before purchasing it from these sources.
Whether you choose new or used, ensure that the couch fulfills your needs.
4. End Tables and Lamps
End tables and lamps are essentials you need in your first apartment. They offer functionality along with a touch of class to your space.
There are many reasons why they should be on every first apartment checklist.
Versatility: Side tables can be used in various ways, from serving as a coffee holder, providing a place for books and magazines, or showcasing photo frames and indoor plants. It can also function as an extension of your workspace when you need to create an impromptu office setup.
Convenience: Having a side table next to your bed or sofa allows you to have important items within easy reach. This may include your phone charger, eyeglasses, or remote controls.
Decorative Value: Side tables contribute to the aesthetic appeal of your living space. They come in different styles, shapes, and designs that can complement various types of interior décor themes.
More than likely with lamps, you will notice where you need them the most after you move. So, it is okay to wait and buy them.
5. Dining Room Table
Your first apartment isn’t complete without a dining room table. It’s the multi-tasking hero of your living space, essential for meals, socializing, and possibly working or studying.
Finding the right dining room table for your apartment can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, it may be daunting for some, given the myriad of options available in the market.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find your ideal fit:
Determine the Size Needed: The first step in finding the right dining room table is to measure the space it will occupy. Knowing the size helps narrow down the options and ensures a comfortable fit. Consider the number of people you plan on hosting on a regular basis – that should dictate the size of the table you need.
Consider the Shape: Dining tables come in various shapes, including square, rectangle, round, and oval. Identifying the shape that suits your space and lifestyle is crucial. Rectangular tables are the most common, but circular ones are great for maintaining an intimate dining experience, while an oval one can be a middle ground between a square and a round table.
Decide on Style: Whether you lean more towards a modern, contemporary, or rustic look, there are countless styles of dining tables to choose from. Ensure that the style of the table resonates with the rest of your home decor for a harmonious look.
Remember, choosing the right dining table is a balance of both form and function. Considering these aspects will surely help you find the dining room table that fits your lifestyle and space.
A good friend of mine had great luck finding a dining room table at a Restore resale shop. Something to definitely check out!
6. Kitchenware
Moving into your first apartment often comes with the challenge of equipping your kitchen efficiently.
To help guide you in making thoughtful purchases without breaking the bank, here are some important kitchen items you should consider investing in.
Basic Cooking Equipment: A Starter kitchen at the bare minimum requires at least two pots and a frying pan. These should be supplemented with necessary cooking utensils like a ladle, spatula, whisk, etc. You also need a high-quality knife set, at least one cutting board, and measuring cups and spoons to help you prepare and portion your meals accurately.
Food Storage & Serving Items: Get microwave-safe food storage containers to store leftovers efficiently. Additionally, invest in a good set of plates, bowls, glasses, and coffee mugs.
Countertop Appliances: While these can be a bit costly, consider getting a microwave, an InstantPot, and a coffee maker. These can vastly simplify and speed up your daily meal prep.
These are the basic items for a minimalistic kitchen.
7. Patio Furniture
Patio furniture can be an excellent cost-effective addition to your first apartment. Often overlooked, patio furniture can provide advantages for a first-time tenant:
Getting patio furniture as hand-me-downs or buying used ones can save you lots of expenses.
Plus patio furniture can be easily refurbished or painted to match your apartment’s interior design. You can showcase your creativity and add a personal touch without spending much.
8. Grill
One must-have in your first apartment is undoubtedly a grill. Nothing beats the flavor of a good grill and it’s perfect for friendly gatherings or quiet evenings.
Having a grill can add a sense of fun and adventure to your living situation. It allows for new culinary experiences and outdoor entertaining, especially during warmer months when you can have a delightful barbecue party in your yard or balcony.
Grilling can also act as a social catalyst. Whether it’s a relaxed summer evening cookout with neighbors or a gathering of friends for a sporting event, grilling can bring people together in a fun and casual way.
Thanks to websites like Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace, second-hand grills in good condition are often available locally and at a much lower cost than brand-new grills.
9. Storage Items
Stepping into your first apartment, huh? The organization will be your closest ally.
Crisp and neat storage items can help you stay clutter-free and make your space feel like home.
This is something I would wait to buy until you are in your space and know what you need. There are so many storage ideas and organization items.
10. Decor
Making your first apartment feel like home is both exciting and challenging. Decor plays a crucial role, transforming an empty space into a cozy, personal refuge.
You want the decor to reflect your style, but the cost may be more than you can afford.
Enter thrift shopping for some of your favorite items.
You can always splurge on that one item you want!
How do I prepare for my first apartment?
Getting your first apartment can be incredibly thrilling, but let us guide you through a smooth transition.
Before making any purchases, it’s critical to create a budget that takes into account moving costs and other associated expenses.
Additionally, make a checklist of essential items to ensure a smooth move, but remember to prioritize immediate needs as some items may not be necessary initially.
Being prepared and methodical about your approach can help significantly in making your first apartment feel like home. It’s all about spending wisely and sticking to your plan.
First Apartment Checklist for Bedroom
Ready to move into your first apartment and need help setting up your bedroom?
This checklist will ensure you won’t miss any essentials.
Bed: Choose a full or queen-size bed to maximize space.
Mattress: Select the right firmness for your sleep style. Don’t forget a mattress pad and bedding.
Nightstand: You need this to place essentials like a reading lamp and a glass of water.
Dresser: An essential piece of furniture for your clothing storage.
Lamp: A softer lighting option for your bedroom. Don’t forget light bulbs!
Closet Organizers: Invest in baskets or cloth storage cubes for easy organization.
Desk and Chair: A small workspace if your room allows. Opt for a stool or folding chair to save money.
Remember every space is unique, tailor this list to your needs and budget.
First Apartment Checklist for Kitchen
As you embark on your solo living adventure, setting up your kitchen shouldn’t be a brain tease.
Here’s a lifesaver list of must-haves:
Remember, your kitchen is not just for cooking, but for hosting toasts and storing eats. Cheers to your new apartment kitchen!
First Apartment Checklist for Living Room
When setting up your first apartment living room, remember to shop for these essential items:
A Cool Lamp or Two: Lighting is crucial. Pick unique lamps that add both light and character to your space.
Side Tables: Grab a couple; these provide additional surfaces for decorations or mugs of tea.
Storage Solutions: Think TV cabinets or bookshelves where you can neatly store your belongings.
Extra Seating: More seats for more guests.
Window Treatments: Curtains or blinds not only offer privacy but can also tie a room together.
Decorative Pillows and Throw Blankets: For aesthetics and comfort.
Decor Items: This includes wall art, picture frames, coffee table books, houseplants, candles and vases. Make your space you.
Be smart in your selections, ensuring each item marries functionality with aesthetics. Holistic harmony is key in a living space.
Technology for Your First Apartment
In today’s digital era, modern apartments are nearly incomplete without a range of essential tech items.
These add convenience, entertainment, and a sense of security to your cozy abode.
Smart TV: This is essential for entertainment and relaxation. It can be a source of news, sports, movies, and shows that make your apartment a much more enjoyable living space.
Roku Stick: If you opt for a basic TV, then these devices enable you to stream content like Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu directly to your TV. This is much needed if you prefer digital streaming over traditional network channels.
Computer / Laptop: This is useful for work, learning, entertainment, and communications in the current digital era. It helps you stay connected to the world and perform various tasks easily.
Wifi Router: A Wi-Fi router is a must-have in this age as it provides an internet connection for all your devices. It enables you to stay connected to the world, shop from home, stream entertainment, or work remotely.
Chargers: Chargers for phones, laptops, and other electronics are essential. They keep your devices powered up and ready for use at any moment.
Speakers: They enhance your entertainment experience by providing high-quality sound for music, TV shows, and movies. They can also be useful for work or study, for instance when participating in video conferences or online courses.
Thankfully prices have dropped significantly on TVs since I bought my first one!
First Apartment Checklist for Bathroom
One key area to consider is your bathroom – it’s essential to have all the basis to make your daily routines smooth and simple. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cleaning Your First Apartment
Ready to take that first crucial clean sweep in your very first apartment? Here’s how you’ll nail it!
Start with unpacking your cleaning essentials, preferably even before you start arranging your furniture. This will make it easier to spot dust, stains, and dirty spots that are usually hidden.
Now, let’s dig into your basic apartment clean-up kit:
Honestly, these frugal green items are perfect to keep things clean and on budget.
Things you need for an apartment that you wouldn’t think of
Moving into your first apartment is an exciting milestone, but it’s also full of small details that are easy to overlook.
Some essential items might not make it on your moving checklist, leaving you scrambling on your first day in your new place.
Basic Handyman Tools: A Leatherman or small toolkit is essential for assembling furniture and making minor repairs.
Hangers: You’ll need more of these than you think for your wardrobe.
Extension cords and surge strips: You’ll need these to plug in all your electronics in spaces with limited outlets.
Drawer organizers: Helps keep your belongings categorized and easy to find. Especially important in small spaces where efficient storage is key.
Flashlight: You never know when a power outage may happen. A flashlight is a crucial tool for safety and navigation in the dark.
Batteries: Handy for various gadgets like remote controls, flashlights, and smoke detectors.
First aid kit: Accidents can happen anywhere, and having a first aid kit handy can make dealing with minor injuries easier and more efficient.
Light bulbs: Essential for maintaining good lighting in your apartment. You don’t want to be left in the dark when a bulb burns out.
Matches and/or lighters: Useful not only for candles and gas stoves but also a necessity in case of a power outage.
Pen and paper: Although we live in a digital age, pen, and paper are still handy for jotting down quick notes, lists, or reminders.
Fire Extinguisher: Better to be safe than sorry!
Carbon Monoxide Detector: Extremely important to have in your apartment
Duct Tape: It solves every DIY project – while almost any.
Security Cameras: It bums me out completely to add this to the list, but in today’s society it is a must-have.
Renter’s insurance is instrumental for various reasons
It provides financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances like theft, damage due to disasters like fires, or liability if someone gets hurt in your apartment.
Additionally, considering the value of electronics, furniture, clothing, and other personal belongings, investing in renter’s insurance helps safeguard one’s possessions, making it invaluable, especially for first-time renters.
How do I budget for my first apartment?
Managing your expenses while moving into your first apartment is crucial since it’s usually an expensive endeavor with many large and small essentials needed to fully complete your home.
Having a budget not only helps you to control your finances effectively but also assists in prioritizing immediate needs, avoiding unnecessary items, and managing moving costs and related expenses.
Step 1: Make a Budget
Budgeting is, unquestionably, a crucial strategy to manage your personal finances efficiently, particularly while setting up a new apartment.
Begin by detailing your annual net income.
Subsequently, list down all your essential expenditures, such as food, household supplies, phone bills, car payments, credit card bills, clothing, transportation costs, internet charges, healthcare expenses, school loans, and entertainment.
Don’t forget to add a section for “miscellaneous” to cover any unanticipated expenses.
Make sure your expenses are less than your income.
While rent will be your biggest expense, you want to make sure you can truly afford the amount without going broke.
If you observe that your expenses are relatively high, it’s time to analyze your spending patterns and cut down on unnecessary spending.
Step 2: Save Money
Saving money and living frugally requires strategic thinking and discipline.
Honestly, the simplest thing you can do is to set aside 20% of your income each paycheck. That will ensure you are on your way to becoming financially independent.
Simply remember, frugal living doesn’t equate to deprivation, it’s about making informed choices to optimize your resources.
The 100 envelope challenge is extremely popular!
Step 3: Start a Side Hustle
Side hustles can be a flexible and rewarding way to supplement your income, and they’ve become much more popular in recent years.
Manage your time wisely and ensure the side hustle is something you enjoy or are passionate about. It should be a source of additional income without causing stress or burnout.
Here are ways to make money online for beginners.
First Apartment Tips
Embarking on the journey of renting your first apartment can be both exciting and daunting, hence having some essential tips can be quite handy.
1. Make a list of apartment essentials
A list of apartment essentials plays a crucial role, particularly for first-time movers.
The benefits and significance cannot be overstated. Here’s why:
Prevents Overspending: Moving into a new apartment is already expensive. There are lease deposits, rent due, utility set-ups, and other hidden expenditures that can easily catch first-time movers off guard. Having a list of apartment essentials can keep your spending in check, ensuring that you only purchase what’s necessary and avoid unnecessary or impulsive purchases.
Minimizes Stress: The task of moving can be overwhelming, and missing essential items only adds to the stress. A well-thought-out list can not only help you keep track of what you’ve already acquired but also what you need to purchase or source.
Ensures You’re Prepared and Organized: By carefully creating an apartment checklist, you’re ensuring that you have everything you need in your new home, from cleaning supplies and toilet paper to the necessary items for your furry friends.
Saves Time: A concise and focused list saves you time by clearly stating what needs to be acquired, allowing you to focus on other important matters related to the move.
Follow this approach, and you’ll have a comfy, well-equipped apartment in no time.
2. Consider your budget
Experts advise rent shouldn’t exceed 25-30% of your income. But, don’t forget to include your other costs like food, bills, loans, etc
Remember, your dream apartment isn’t worth it if it’s a financial nightmare. Think smart, save hard, and enjoy your new home’s comforts without breaking the bank.
Learn the ideal household percentages.
3. Research apartments
Researching apartments requires careful consideration of numerous factors such as the proximity to vital facilities like workplaces, grocery stores, hospitals, and entertainment joints.
Try to physically tour potential residences where possible to examine amenities and gauge the atmosphere of the neighborhood.
Don’t forget to make inquiries and view the apartment personally or through a floor plan, all these will help you make a wise decision.
4. Check apartment listings for features and amenities
When searching for the perfect apartment, consider features and amenities that align with your lifestyle.
If there is a sym space, you could eliminate your monthly gym membership.
Just make sure the cost of the upgraded amenities is worth the price tag.
While checking apartment listings, ensure to evaluate the location, amenities, available space, and physical integrity.
5. Think about the size and layout of the apartment
Understanding the size and layout of your new apartment is crucial before you start styling and furnishing it.
Acquire a floor plan from the apartment management, and if possible, tour the apartment physically to note the positioning of rooms, doorways, hallways, and stairwells. Take measurements of these areas and visualize the kind of furniture and fixtures they can accommodate fittingly, taking into account maneuverability around corners as well.
Moving to your first apartment is exciting, yet demands careful consideration of the size and layout.
6. Look for apartments with good security
When you’re hunting for your next apartment, don’t forget to check out its security features. This is crucial for your peace of mind.
Ensure the apartment is in a safe neighborhood, close to amenities like hospitals or public transport.
Ask if the apartment complex has features like controlled access gates, security guards, and CCTV surveillance.
Check the apartment for proper alarm systems, well-functioning locks on doors and windows, and that fire safety measures are in place.
Verify the cell phone reception inside the apartment for any emergency calls.
Lastly, always ensure that the parking area is secure and well-lit.
Remember, your apartment isn’t just a place, it’s your sanctuary. It should feel like one, too.
7. Make sure you get a good deal
Before signing a lease, it’s crucial to ensure the rent price is a good deal.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median gross rent from 2015-2019 was approximately $1,097 per month.
8. Talk to the management and make sure you understand the rules
Get to grips with your apartment’s rules by thoroughly reading your lease. Take note of any restrictions, and don’t fear to ask for clarifications. Data indicates that understanding lease terms significantly reduces tenant-landlord conflicts.
It is important you understand your lease as it is a binding contract.
First Apartment Checklist PDF
Moving into your first apartment is exciting but daunting. The First Apartment Checklist PDF helps simplify the process.
Take it at your own pace—don’t rush. This is your journey to your new home. Enjoy!
FAQ
Moving into a new apartment can be quite exciting yet daunting. It’s crucial to carefully inspect the space to ensure it meets your needs and is in optimal condition.
Check the overall cleanliness. Despite initial cleaning, apartments often accumulate dust while vacant. Ensure you have cleaning supplies handy to tackle any overlooked dirt or grime.
Inspect the utilities. Ensure the availability of necessary technology setups and provisions for all your electronic gadgets. And make sure no wires are hanging from the ceiling.
Verify the safety features. Always have a working lock on the door as well as a well lit entrance.
Examine appliances. Make sure essential household appliances like washers, dryers, and a dishwasher are provided and in working condition.
The comfort and safety of your new apartment rely hugely on these checks.
When determining how much you should spend on rent, it’s generally suggested that your allotment should be no more than 25-30% of your after-tax income.
For instance, if your yearly income after taxes is $40,000 per year, your rent should be about $833-$1,000 per month.
Keep in mind, this amount should cover:
Your rent
Utilities (unless they’re included in your rent)
Rental insurance
It’s essential to create a realistic budget by considering your other necessary expenses like food, transport, healthcare, and entertainment. If needed, find ways to cut some of these costs to afford your dream apartment.
Now Get Moving with your Apartment Shopping List!
In conclusion, creating and managing a first apartment checklist requires a judicious mix of prudence and patience.
It’s an exciting journey of setting up your first independent space but it’s also a test of properly managing your resources without compromising on your basic needs.
It’s crucial to remember that you do not need to get everything at once, and it’s okay to take your time to gradually fill your apartment.
Remember, be mindful of your budget and prioritize based on your specific needs and preferences.
And don’t forget, you’re not just setting up an apartment, you’re creating your own unique sanctuary.
With patience and careful planning, you’ll soon have an apartment that’s not only functionally equipped but also a reflection of your personal style. The experience, in the end, will prove to be as rewarding as it is educational.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Do you dream of learning how to get paid to travel? Your dream doesn’t have to seem like a fantasy — there are many people who turned their dreams of globe-trotting adventures into an attainable reality. For me, I love being able to travel and work at the same time. I have been able to…
Do you dream of learning how to get paid to travel? Your dream doesn’t have to seem like a fantasy — there are many people who turned their dreams of globe-trotting adventures into an attainable reality.
For me, I love being able to travel and work at the same time. I have been able to visit many new places and really learn about the areas I’m visiting because I get to spend more time in each place I visit. Plus, I am still able to pay all of my expenses and save fully for retirement with no worries.
Whether you want to learn how to get paid to travel for a few months at a time or become a full-time digital nomad, there are many ways to make your dream a reality.
The biggest things holding people back from traveling are money and travel expenses, but this is something that many people can work around. There are many different types of income streams that you may be able to start.
Over the years, I’ve met people who have learned how to get paid to travel and have made it their life. There have been people who have saved up to travel for an extended amount of time, those who are retired, those who find odd jobs on the road, those who have found paid travel opportunities (like the ones I’m about to tell you about), and more.
You’re probably thinking to yourself: “You have to be a professional travel blogger in order to get paid to travel.”
But that’s not true at all!
If you want to learn how to get paid to travel, there are many other excellent ways to make your dreams happen.
In fact, the majority of people I have met while traveling are not travel bloggers, on TikTok, or have a Youtube channel. I know you see a lot of that online, but the reality is that most people hold normal jobs that allow them to travel.
In today’s article, I will be highlighting the many different excellent ways to learn how to get paid to travel the world.
Related content on how to get paid to travel:
How to get paid to travel the world
1. Create a travel blog
A travel blog, or any type of blog or Youtube channel, may allow you to get paid to travel the world.
I know this because my blog, Making Sense of Cents, allows me to travel!
Blogging means I have a flexible schedule, allowing me to enjoy many of the places I visit.
There are several ways to earn money blogging, including:
You can learn more in How To Earn Money Blogging: Your Top Questions Answered, where I give in-depth explanations of each monetization method.
You can create your own blog here with my easy and quick tutorial. You can start your blog for as low as $2.75 per month, plus you get a free domain name when signing up through my guide.
Related content: How To Start a Blog Free Course
2. Teach English as a foreign language
Teaching English is a very popular way to get paid to travel. Whether you’re teaching English online or if you find a school in a foreign country (such as China, South Korea, or United Arab Emirates), teaching English is one of the best ways to make money while traveling because it’s very in demand.
You do not need to be a teacher to teach English online or speak another language, which is great. You only need to speak English. You are often asked to be a native English speaker and have a bachelor’s degree (in any subject).
Typically, you can earn around $15 to $25 per hour. However, pay varies based on the country, and some places pay more than others, such as South Korea and the United Arab Emirates.
ESL teachers occasionally have their housing paid for or free food when working in other countries.
Another option would be to become a teacher overseas. You can learn more at How We Made Over $100,000 Teaching Overseas.
3. Become an au pair
Au pairs are like nannies, but they live abroad with a family in a foreign country so they can learn the language, experience the culture, and travel. Au pairs don’t usually get paid a salary, but their host family pays for food and stay and gives the au pair some spending money.
If you enjoy working with kids and want to learn how to get paid to travel, working as an au pair or travel nanny can be a fun option for younger adults.
My sister was an au pair in Italy a few years ago. It was an interesting experience, and she had both positives and negatives from it.
In the blog post linked below, my sister writes about:
How much an au pair can earn
How to get paid to travel to Europe as an au pair
The positives and negatives of being an au pair
Tips to find a host family to work for
Questions to ask your host family
You can read more at How To Become An Au Pair And Travel The World.
4. Become a digital nomad
With a remote job, you may be able to become a digital nomad and travel the U.S. or even the world.
Remote jobs are far more common these days, and the best remote opportunities allow you to eliminate your commute (which may save you hours each week!), travel more, and sometimes even have a more flexible schedule.
Plus, many times all you need is a laptop and an internet connection.
A remote job is a job you can work from anywhere. You may be able to work from your house, apartment, in an RV, on a sailboat, while in another country, at a co-working office, and so on.
Of course, some companies do have rules regarding travel, so you will want to clarify that before you fly around the world.
Here are some examples of remote jobs:
You can learn more at How To Find A Remote Job (Best Sites, Tips, & More).
5. Travel photographer
Even since we started traveling, we’ve met some amazing photographers, and I’ve always thought this would be one of the most fun travel jobs.
There are so many different kinds of photographers that make a living traveling the world. These include National Geographic photographers, people who travel around the world chasing crazy races and taking pictures of them, people publishing amazing photos on Instagram, people who take photos of sharks, and so on.
Travel photography is a very creative job that many people dream of.
If you’re interested in this option, you’ll definitely need a camera to start, and you may want to take some courses on photography.
6. Become a park ranger
Choosing to become a park ranger as your travel career choice can allow you to travel across the U.S., transferring from park to park.
The website ParkRangerEdu.Org is a great place to learn more. According to the site, it’s recommended that you have a college degree in a relevant major such as Earth science, forestry, conservation, biology.
Park rangers help protect the park, wildlife, visitors, and more, and they may work at the visitor center, as law enforcement, protecting animals, guiding tours, and so on. It all depends on the position that you fill.
This would be one of the best ways to get paid to travel for people who love to be outdoors and want to help improve the parks that they love.
7. Travel nurse
A travel nurse may be able to earn more than $3,000 per week. They tend to make much more than a nurse who has a permanent job at a hospital or other facility.
Travel nurses are RNs (registered nurses) working short-term positions at healthcare facilities. Whenever there are nursing shortages, which happen often, travel nurses help healthcare facilities fill these roles.
I have had several friends become travel nurses, and I’ve also met a few travel nurses while traveling.
Travel nurse jobs usually last around 3 months and can come with many benefits.
8. Become an Airbnb Experience Host
As an Airbnb Experience Host, you may be able to make money in different areas by hosting tours, classes, etc. This can be a fun way to meet tourists, as well as better get to know an area.
No, you don’t need to own an Airbnb rental in order to become an Airbnb Experience Host. This is completely different!
Whether you want to host cooking classes, guide a walking tour, lead a bike ride in your area, host a pub crawl, or something else, there are many different types of Airbnb experiences you can host.
You could do this as a side gig or even a full-time job. It simply depends on your availability and what your goals are.
If you have questions, such as:
How much do Airbnb experience hosts make?
What are some examples of Airbnb experiences that I can host?
How do I start an Airbnb hosting experience?
Is hosting an Airbnb experience worth it?
You can learn more at How to Make Money as an Airbnb Experience Host.
Campground workers or workampers are people who work at a campground in exchange for free stay and sometimes pay. There are many campgrounds across the country looking for workampers, and this can be an excellent way to earn more travel money.
You can work at beautiful campgrounds on the beach, in national parks, state parks, forests, and more. I have seen hiring signs in some of the most beautiful campgrounds!
While full-time RVing, I met many happy workampers who enjoy their jobs, and it’s something that I would definitely do myself!
After all, you get to stay for free, and many times you’re even paid to stay in some of the most beautiful places in the world. It’s a great way to make RVing work full-time.
As a work camper you may be:
Answering questions on the phone
Making reservations for campers
Cleaning campsites, bathrooms, community rooms, and more
Selling firewood
Making sure campers follow the rules
Workampers can be paid with an RV site to stay in, at an hourly rate, or a mixture of the two.
Many times, campgrounds prefer a couple as well so that the duties can be split amongst two people, so this is a great option if you want to learn how to get paid to travel as a couple.
Related content: How To Make Money While RVing
10. Find items to resell online
If you are a full-time traveler, you may come across items you could sell online.
I’ve met people who travel the country in vans or RVs and pick up items as they travel. They sell their inventory online and ship items out from wherever they’re staying.
Etsy, eBay, Craigslist, and countless others are great places if you decide to sell items online.
You can learn more at How I Made $40,000 In One Year Flipping Items.
11. Find a cruise ship job
Working on a cruise ship means that you will be working while traveling! You can work and travel on a cruise ship through the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and more.
Plus, there are cruise ships that even circumnavigate the globe, which would be really fun.
If you want to learn how to get paid to travel, there are many different types of opportunities to find on a cruise line, including:
Childcare worker
Cleaning crew
Boat crew, such as officers, electricians, and engineers
Yoga instructor
Photographer
Salon/spa workers
Fitness center jobs
Restaurant server, cook, or bartender
Entertainment, such as being in a band, technicians, and more
Those are just a few of the jobs you can find on a cruise ship, and there are over 300 cruise ships in the world, and hundreds of workers on each cruise ship.
With a job on a cruise ship, you would live on the cruise ship and many of your travel expenses, such as room and board, may be paid for by the cruise ship company. You may also make a salary and tips.
To find cruise ship jobs, I recommend heading to cruise ship websites and finding their jobs page. For example, Carnival Cruise Ships has a special job page, which you can find here. On their website, you can even sign up for job alerts so that you can be emailed when a job is added to their website.
12. WWOOFer
WWOOF stands for Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms, and it’s an organization that connects visitors with organic farms around the world.
WWOOF allows volunteers to choose an area and country to travel to and volunteer in at a farm. The stay can range from a few days to several months, depending on what is agreed upon.
In return for your food and provided accommodations, you are expected to work 4-6 hours a day on the farm.
You may be asked to cut wood, pack items, feed animals, make food, sow seed, make compost, help care for a garden, and more – anything helpful to the farmer.
This is one of the best ways to get paid to travel if you are looking for an affordable way to travel the world. You won’t make a full-time income, but it sounds like a fun way to visit new areas.
In most cases, you will need to be 18 or older in order to start WWOOFing.
13. Outdoor guide or instructor
If you’re the adventurous type, then becoming an outdoor guide or instructor can be a great way to learn how to get paid to travel.
You must be highly skilled to safely do this, of course. And that’s because you’ll be responsible for teaching others skills that may be dangerous.
Outdoor guide or outdoor instructor jobs may include:
Hiking guide
Rock climbing guide
Scuba diving guide
Wilderness and survival guide
Kayaking/rafting guide
Fishing guide
Surfing instructor
Hunting guide
Tour guide
Travel guide
And more! You may even be able to carve out your own specialty as well.
As a guide or instructor, you may work for yourself, work for a park, a summer camp, or for another company.
Guides may be paid via tips and a flat fee for taking people out on a guided trip.
14. Sell printables on Etsy
This might surprise you, but you can travel while earning a somewhat passive income stream selling printables online.
Printables are digital files that can be bought and sold nearly indefinitely, and because they are delivered online, you don’t have to ship anything or store physical products.
This can be a great way to earn passive income while you travel for years down the line. You might be able to travel for longer, and you’ll have more free time to enjoy the places you visit.
Some examples of travel-related printables include:
Vacation packing checklists
Travel planners, such as travel itinerary printables
Vacation grocery shopping checklists
Luggage tags
Bucket lists printables
Road trip activity printables
Travel journals
RV checklists
You can learn more at How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy.
15. Flight attendant
A popular way to get paid to travel the world is by becoming a flight attendant.
There are strict requirements for becoming a flight attendant, but you may receive highly discounted flights for you and companions. This can be a great way to travel while you’re working, and when you’re not on duty as a flight attendant, you can explore new cities and countries.
Flight attendants can make a good income, and the benefits can’t be beat if you want to travel more. Flight attendants make anywhere from around $40,000 to over $100,000 a year.
You can learn more at How To Become A Flight Attendant And Make $61,640 Each Year.
16. Boat crew jobs
Working as part of a yacht crew is a fun way to travel the world and experience life on the water. People are always looking for help on their boats, whether it’s a small 30-foot sailboat or a 200-foot mega yacht.
My husband has delivered two sailing catamarans for a total of around 4,000 miles (that doesn’t even include the amount of sailing he’s done on our boat), and we’ve both been offered boat crew jobs on several other occasions as well.
As yacht crew, you may be working as the:
Captain
Hostess
Mechanic or engineer
Server
Chef
Cleaner
Crew
Working on a boat means you get to travel around the world, to new countries, or you may be staying in one area. It really just depends on the boat and what their itinerary is.
Now, working on a boat is not easy. It’s usually quite hard work, but it can be extremely rewarding.
If you’re interested, a lot of it is about networking. Simply hanging around the docks may help you find work, there are websites that connect crew to boats, and agencies that can help you find yacht crew jobs too.
17. Deliver vehicles
Like the last option, you can get paid to travel around the country delivering vehicles for individuals and dealerships. You might be towing or driving the vehicle depending on the arrangement.
You’ll need to have a clean driving record if you want to learn how to get paid to travel delivering vehicles. Delivery drivers can make $300 to $400 per vehicle.
18. Public speaker or coach
This can be a very lucrative option, but you will need to establish yourself as an expert or authority in a certain topic. Fortunately, there are many options to choose from – health, parenting, fashion, exercise, entrepreneurship, finances, marketing, life coaching, and much more.
You can make in the range of $1,000 to $50,000+ per event as a public speaker.
Are there companies that pay you to travel?
Yes, there are some companies that pay their workers to travel across the country or around the world.
Besides some of the opportunities talked about in this list, jobs in sales, HR, trainers, and more may send you to different cities and countries as part of your job.
How to get paid to travel the world – Summary
As you can see, there are many different ways to get paid to travel the world. There are, of course, positives and negatives to each option.
This is because everyone is different, we all have different skills, different ideas of what travel looks like, and so on. It’s all about finding which way interests you the most.
Again, here are the best ways to can get paid to travel:
Create a travel blog
Teach English as a foreign language
Become an au pair
Travel photographer
Become a digital nomad
Become a park ranger
Travel nurse
Become an Airbnb Experience Host
Campground worker (workamper)
Find items to resell online
Find a cruise ship job
WWOOFer
Outdoor guide or instructor
Sell printables on Etsy
Flight attendant
Boat crew jobs
Deliver vehicles
Public speaker or coach
So, whether you want to travel across the US and visit all 50 states, circumnavigate the world by boat, or fly to many different continents and countries, there are so many different ways to get paid to travel.
Traveling is the best way to see the world, but it can also be expensive. Depending on your situation, there are dozens of ways to get paid to travel, whether you want to travel on a backpacker’s budget or if you want to splurge on fancy resorts.
Whether you are looking for seasonal jobs, you want to become an online freelancer, or if you even want to find a way to make money from your hobby without working long hours, there are many ways to experience a new culture and may even be able to score free travel.
Christmas is over. You received some thoughtful presents, but also got some duds. That collection of cooking spices from your Aunt Madge? You hate to cook! Here’s some sage advice from Marie, a self-confessed re-gifting addict.
Regifting has a tarnished reputation in today’s consumer-driven society. Perhaps it’s driven by businesses hoping to convince us to spend more money, or by a misguided quest to shower our loved ones with extravagances we can’t really afford, or simply by a fear of seeming cheap. Regifting can not only be appropriate, but frugal and fun. Regifting is recycling elevated to an art form. Here are a couple points to keep in mind before you put away this year’s Christmas presents.
The number one rule of regifting is: Mark who gave it to you and when you received it. While regifting in itself is nothing to be ashamed of, shame on you if you give it back to the person who originally gave it to you! I usually try to avoid regifting within the same social circle. If I got scented potpourri from someone at work, I may regift it to someone in my book group, but not to another co-worker. Marking items is crucial because you probably won’t remember who gave you the gift six months later. Nothing kills a regifting possibility faster than forgetting the giver — that potpourri is going to sit there until I meet someone from another continent who couldn’t have possibly given it to me in the first place.
Once an item is accurately labeled, it may be regifted as:
The Gag Gift. Do you do a group white elephant or yankee swap for Christmas? Know someone that has everything (including a sense of humor)? Sometimes the gift you got is so bad it’s hilarious. Instead of tossing it, save it as a gag gift. After all, laughter is one of the best presents around. My gag gift drawer seems to be a popular destination for gifts from one particular relative of mine. They are purchased in earnest, but boy are they bad. So, give them a second life. If you find yourself with an inordinate amount of bad gifts, perhaps it’s time to suggest to your family/friends that the gift exchange stops, or to name a charity to which they could donate in your name instead.
The ‘Thank You’ Gift. Many gifts around the holidays are non-descript gifts meant to show a little appreciation or affection. It’s not the money; it’s the thought. You probably got some this year: mugs, generic stationary, candles, holiday ornaments, humorous little books, knick-knacks. And you probably will give some next year. Do you really need another mug, or can you repurpose it? I always give something to our wonderful mail carrier (who makes sure the packages are under the porch roof where they won’t get rained on), to the support staff where I work (these type of employees are chronically under-appreciated), to our fabulous neighbors, and to other people who help me during the year. Often these gifts are cookies or candies that I make myself, but I like to tuck them into a regifted mug, or to adorn with a regifted ornament. This costs me nothing extra, but makes the gift more complete. (Reminder: For some services, an actual cash bonus is more appropriate and welcome. Housekeepers or live-in nurses, for example, deserve more than a plate of cookies at the end of the year.)
The Specialty Item. You hate it, but someone you know will love it. There’s nothing wrong with saying as much — nicely. Snowman cookie jar? Give it to the snowman collector. Or cookie jar collector. Or the person who is famous for their holiday baking.
Regifting can also be applied for free/bonus items, such as those you receive when placing an online order. For example, if you order often from an online cosmetics retailer such as AVON or Garden Botanika, you can accumulate a nice assortment of free samples: lipstick, lotion, perfume, etc. Tuck a few of these into a pretty basket or a cosmetics pouch for a quick gift for a teenage girl or for somebody going on a romantic getaway weekend.
Here are some other tips:
Regift someone else’s gift. Think garage sales/tag sales. Just because it’s used doesn’t mean someone on your list won’t love it. Vintage dishware? Antique tools? Decorative bottles? But be selective; don’t just buy it because it’s a bargain — have a giftee in mind and be confident that they will like the gift. You may score great gifts with “online garage sales” like eBay or craigslist, too, if you’re willing to budget for postage or do a bit of driving. Be a savvy shopper and read descriptions well so you won’t be disappointed.
Regift those containers. Save those baskets, giftbags, wine wrappers, etc. They’re too nice to throw away after just one use! Encourage others to reuse by labeling them in such a way that they aren’t destroyed. (I know someone who writes the recipient’s name in permanent marker across the entire side of a beautiful giftbag; a better choice would be to dangle a small giftcard from the handle with ribbon. The card can easily be removed so the bag can be reused.) Americans spend a lot of cash on wrappings that are admired once and then trashed.
Regifting don’ts.
Food. No one wants stale chocolates, flavorless coffeebeans or expired canned goods next December. Either pass it on quickly or dispose of it.
Crap. Try to avoid regifting things that you yourself think are tacky, poorly made, etc. Put these in the garage sale pile, or donate them to charity. Someone may buy them, but at least they don’t have to write you a thank you note.
Know when to stop. Don’t regift just to have something to give. Your gift should still be well-chosen for the recipient and show that you put some thought into it. Otherwise, don’t be surprised if that gift is regifted once again! If nothing is appropriate, make or purchase a gift. Or, if you need to be especially thrifty, a sincere and warmly written letter expressing your love/appreciation/gratitude can be the best present.
Keep track of your gifting. I use a spreadsheet to organize the year’s gifts. I can see at a glance for whom I still need a gift (or recipient). All the gifts are stored in a central location, out of the way. My spreadsheet also allows me to take advantage of sales. If I see something in January that’s perfect for my sister-in-law, I know if I already have her covered for her August birthday and next year’s Christmas. This is also handy if a last-minute gift-giving situation arises — I know what I have on hand and if anything fits the occasion.
You can combine this spreadsheet with your budget for the next year, or start now and keep notes on what you spend in 2007. Gifts can be a huge expenditure, often unplanned for. Knowing what you spend in a year will help you make adjustments if your gifting line item is more than you’d like. And, if you save each year’s gift list, you won’t accidentally give Uncle Bob the same CD twice.
Beware — one downfall of purchasing gifts year-round is the inevitable urge to buy more in December. The carols are playing, the stores are beckoning, the tree could certainly use just one more present beneath it… Resist, resist! A gift is a message from you to the recipient. Keep in mind that the message should be about thoughtfulness rather than about how much you charged to your credit cards.
Look for more frugal tips from guest authors later today.
Most buyers are honest people, and are happy to be working with a private party instead of a dealership. To get the best price from your car, follow these steps:
Prep your vehicle. Check the vehicle to be certain that everything works. You may consider having a mechanic examine your car and issuing a report about its condition.
Research the market. Spend a few weeks scouring your local used-car classifieds to learn what people are asking for similar vehicles. Use the Kelly Blue Book or NADA Guides to get additional information.
Set a competitive price. Determine what you think your car is worth, and then add a little to the price for wiggle room. (You don’t want to start negotiations from the price you think the car is worth.) Decide on a rock bottom price below which you will not entertain offers.
Gather records. Prepare a folder containing all maintenance records. If you had a mechanic inspect the car, include his report. Consider purchasing a vehicle report from CARFAX — it can help set potential buyers’ minds at ease. Also have a bill-of-sale ready to go. (What you need for a bill-of-sale will vary by location; here’s a list of state motor vehicle division web sites.)
Clean your vehicle. Wash the car thoroughly. Don’t just run it through a car wash — scrub it down. Wax it. Clean the interior. Get all the junk out of it and vacuum it. Make it look its best.
Create an advertisement that sells. Mention top options and improvements. List any recent upgrades, such as new tires or battery. Has your car lived all its life in a garage? Say so! Do you have all the maintenance records? Mention that, too.
Spread the word. Get as much exposure for your ad as possible. The more demand you can generate, the more money you’ll make. Online, try craigslist, Autotrader, and Cars.com. (Quality photos are important for online ads.) Run your ad in a newspaper over the weekend, when it will reach the largest audience.
Be prepared to answer questions. People will call or e-mail to ask for more specific information. Be ready to provide it. Keep a list of key facts by the phone.
Show your car to interested buyers. If you’re nervous about your ability to deal with people, get somebody to help. You’re selling yourself as well as the car, so make a good impression. Allow the buyer to take a test drive, but be sure to ask for a valid driver’s license first! Permit buyers to take the car to their mechanic, even if you’ve already taken it to yours.
Negotiate a fair price. A good price is fair to both parties. Having done your research, you’ll know what your car is worth. Be confident in this knowledge. When you’re sure of a vehicle’s value, it’s easy to stand strong when somebody tries to lowball you. Have a firm bottom price in mind, but if a reasonable offer is only a couple hundred dollars from this figure, consider accepting it.
Make the sale. Complete a bill-of-sale transferring ownership. Again, what you need for a bill-of-sale will vary by location. (Here’s a list of state motor vehicle division web sites.) Ask for cash or a cashier’s check. (Here’s a page about avoiding fraud, including fraudulent cashier’s checks).
Take care of details. After the sale is complete, cancel your insurance on the vehicle. Offer your phone number to the buyer so that you can answer questions, but be clear that the sale is final.
If anything about the transaction makes you nervous, call it off. If the buyer seems shady, he probably is. If the buyer wants to pay more than you’re asking and then be issues a refund, he’s probably trying to pull a scam. Don’t do it. Trust your gut.
If your car has trouble, if it’s a lemon, don’t sell it to a private party. Sell it to a dealer. You’ll get less money, but you won’t be screwing over somebody else. And the dealer will be better equipped to repair the trouble. Remember: your goal is to provide an excellent transaction for yourself and for the buyer. You’re not there to rip anybody off.
A few weeks ago I wrote about my realization that I have too much Stuff. For two decades, I had been a willing participant in our consumerist culture, buying books and magazines and video games and compact discs and George Foreman grills. After twenty years of this, all I had to show for it was a mountain of debt and a home filled with Stuff.
Recently, Kris and I have been working to purge our Stuff. While we’ve discarded some of it as trash, we’ve also managed to sell some of it. We’ve donated some of our Stuff to charity. We’ve given other Stuff to friends.
At first this was painful. Then it became appalling. It was shocking to think that I’d paid tens of thousands of dollars to buy this Stuff, and then paid even more in interest fees. Now I’m casting much of it aside, shipping it off to a landfill.
This has made me realize that Stuff has more than just a personal financial cost. Every time I buy something, it has an impact on the world around me. When I buy a new kitchen appliance, for example, there’s an environmental cost for the manufacturing process, for the packaging, for the transportation, and for the marketing. By reducing my role as a consumer, couldn’t I help myself and help the environment? Here are five strategies that I’ve developed to help me accomplish both goals at once:
Reduce your consumption — buy less stuff. Such a simple notion, yet so powerful. The less you buy, the less money you spend. When you buy less, you’re also reducing your environmental impact. Buying fewer things means a little more money in your pocket, and a little less pollution in the world.
Reuse the things you have. Last week, Amanda encouraged us to get value from the things we own. Before you buy a new computer game, ask yourself if you’re finished playing the last one you bought. Before you buy a new bicycle, consider taking your old bike in for a tune-up instead. If you currently buy disposable diapers, disposable razors, or paper towels, consider switching to re-usable alternatives.
Recycle the Stuff you no longer want or need. If you replace your 1996-era 19″ Sony television with a new widescreen model, don’t set the old TV out in the trash. Find another home for it. Put it on Craigslist. Set it outside with a “free” sign on it. If you really want to save money, place yourself on the other side of the equation: look for Stuff that people are getting rid of. You can find nearly everything you need for much less than you’d pay new. You just need to know where to look!
Embrace imperfection. We like the things we buy to be perfect. But that perfection comes at a price, both financially and environmentally. Learn to look beyond the surface:
Hand-crafted goods may contain minor imperfections.
Organic fruits and vegetables often have visible blemishes that do not affect the quality of the food.
The things you find at garage sales and thrift stores will often require mending.
All of these flaws can be disconcerting at first, but in time you may find yourself wondering why they once bothered you.
Pursue quality. I used to buy a pair of $3 gardening gloves every spring because I didn’t see the sense in spending more. They’d work fine for a couple months, but by the end of the summer, they’d be worn to pieces. Then one year I bought a $15 pair of gloves. I haven’t bought another pair since. We often assume the least expensive option is the best way to save money. That’s not always the case. Quality items usually have a higher initial cost, but the total cost of ownership can be much less than a cheaply-made equivalent.
These rules can be difficult to follow — I’ve been working on some of them for years. Most of the time, I still think like a consumer. But because it’s important to the environment, and because it’s important to my bottom line, I’m willing to keep trying.
In our latest real estate tech entrepreneur interview, we’re speaking with Paul Burke from ColivingCircle.
Who are you and what do you do?
I’m the Founder and CEO of ColivingCircle, a marketplace for finding coliving. I’m a solo founder working on everything from development, design and content to partnerships and customer support.
What problem does your product/service solve?
As coliving grows in popularity among renters we’re seeing more companies enter the space. Because every coliving space is unique – geared towards different lifestyles and interests, there is a need to provide a marketplace that helps consumers find the right coliving space for them.
You previously built RentHoop to connect roommates (interview is here). What learnings from that led you to your new product, ColivingCircle?
We’re actually talking to buyers regarding selling RentHoop which will be the end of a long chapter of my life that occupied most of my mid-20s.
As a first-time founder, I didn’t have the context or experience to know how to best build a product, evaluate an industry, allocate resources or manage a team. It’s all trial by fire when you’re just starting.
Over a span of a couple of years, I began to develop a level of objectivity that helped me see the industry from a different light. While the need for a product like RentHoop was, and still is, massive, there’s a reason people still use Craigslist, primarily, for finding roommates. It’s a tough business to monetize until you achieve density, scale and products people will pay for. Those things typically require a good amount of capital, especially for a low-velocity product like finding a roommate, room or sublet.
My goals this time around are very different than they were for RentHoop. For ColivingCircle, I am not looking to build a ‘startup,’ one optimized for user growth and raising money from VC’s, but a business with limited overhead that seeks profitability and can be self-sustaining.
What are you most excited about right now?
Coliving is “the antithesis to social distancing” as Rolling Stones Magazine put it. In the short-term, many coliving spaces are taking a hit.
The positive is that many people who are sticking it out in coliving spaces are able to experience community in a wonderful way. From some of the interviews I’ve done on the ColivingCircle podcast, we’re hearing about how people don’t feel isolated or lonely because they have others around.
We’re going to see demand for coliving explode in the next year and enter the mainstream.
What’s next for you?
Continue to advocate for the industry and connect people with a coliving space near them. We already have about a dozen partnerships with coliving spaces in the United States so we’re excited to officially launch!
What’s a cause you’re passionate about and why?
I’m half-Egyptian and those roots are extremely important to me. My family and I took a trip to Egypt this past September and we got the opportunity to work closely with a boys and girls orphanage. In the last week we were able to purchase them a school bus with the help of some family and friends. We continue to support them so they can receive an education and the opportunity to live out their dreams.
Thanks to Paul for sharing an update to his story. If you’d like to connect, find him on LinkedIn here.
We’re constantly looking for great real estate tech entrepreneurs to feature. If that’s you, please read this post — then drop me a line (drew @ geekestatelabs dot com).
It can be tough to get a good handle on your finances, especially when you’re first starting out in your career or just don’t have a lot of cash to spare. Throw in student loan debt, a worldwide pandemic, and growing economic uncertainty, and it can seem especially daunting to get your financial situation on the right track.
Luckily, there are a few bad money habits that you can break that will make getting your finances in order easier. While there are many aspects of your financial situation that you can’t control, getting rid of bad money habits and forming new, responsible habits when it comes to spending and borrowing can set you up for success.
What’s Ahead:
1. Spending More than You Earn
How much you spend vs. how much you earn is one of the key factors that can make or break your financial health. You should always aim to spend less than you make each month, with the goal of saving 20% of your income each month.
While this sounds simple enough, life can get in the way sometimes, whether you have a couple of unexpected expenses that tank your budget, you lose a source of income, or you just don’t quite make enough to meet your basic needs each month. Even if you find yourself unable to spend less than you make right now, earning more money than you spend should always be your ultimate goal when it comes to setting your finances in order.
2. Living above Your Means
Living above your means can put a serious dent in your finances if you aren’t careful. While you probably don’t need to be frugal to the extreme, you should steer clear of expensive and unnecessary purchases like new cars, luxury apartments, and fancy vacations if you’re still trying to get your financial footing. This doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself every once in a while, but it does mean you should make it work within your budget.
3. Not Sticking to a Budget
How do you know how much you can spend each month while still living within your means? The easiest way to do so is to make (and stick to) a budget.
You should include necessities like housing, utilities, groceries, and insurance, and may want to add categories for saving and discretionary “fun” spending each month if your budget allows.
Not sure where to start? Budgeting software like PocketSmith makes budgeting easy and painless.
4. Not Tracking Spending
After you set a budget, the next step is to track your spending each month to make sure that you’re sticking to it. Tracking spending can help you to make sure that you’re not going over budget in any one area. It also helps you to keep track of your finances and get a clear-eyed view of what you spend your hard-earned money on.
5. Not Educating Yourself about Personal Finance
The world of personal finance can be full of jargon and terms that are confusing for beginners. I had never studied business or accounting and found many financial terms frustratingly opaque when I first started to learn more about personal finance.
Unfortunately, poor financial literacy can have negative consequences when it comes to your financial wellbeing. Knowing enough about personal finance to make responsible and educated decisions when it comes to money is really important. Luckily, there are plenty of free resources online (including the articles here at Money Under 30!) to get you started.
6. Not Building up an Emergency Fund
A sizable safety net is another cornerstone of good financial health. After you’ve set a budget and begun to track your spending each month, you should start to put money away each month towards an emergency fund.
Most financial experts recommend that you save between three and six months worth of expenses in an emergency fund. If you’re not sure exactly how much to save, you can use MU30’s emergency fund calculator to figure it out.
7. Not Saving for Retirement
Once you’ve established a budget and stashed away some money for an emergency fund, the next step on your path to financial wellness should be to start saving for retirement. This is especially important if your employer matches retirement contributions since you’re basically leaving free money on the table if you don’t contribute up to their match limit.
If your employer doesn’t offer any retirement savings options, you can contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA (the contribution limit is $6,000 in 2020.) Once you’ve maxed out your retirement contributions for the year, you can save or invest any additional cash that’s leftover.
If you’re not sure how much you should be saving, MU30’s investment calculator can help you plan your savings goals. If you need help with the ins and outs of investing for retirement and beyond, investing services like blooom (which helps you manage your IRA or 401(k)) and Public investment app make investing accessible even for beginners.
8. Not Paying off Your Credit Card Balance in Full Each Month
I’ve certainly been there – when you’re not making enough to make ends meet and need to pay your bills each month, it can be tempting to put extra expenses on a credit card.
While credit cards provide welcome flexibility and rewards redemption opportunities, they can quickly turn into a major debt burden if you’re not careful. If it’s at all within your means, you should try to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid accumulating interest and building up debt.
9. Making Late Payments
Late payments are another common financial mistake when you’re new to personal finance. Unfortunately, they can have lasting consequences when it comes to your credit score and your wallet.
Late payments on bills often come with additional late fees and interest, and a history of late or missed payments can lower your credit score. If it’s your first time making a late payment, you should contact your creditor to see if they can forgive a one-time late payment.
10. Not Investigating All Your Options when it Comes to Financial Products
It can be easy to go with the path of least resistance when it comes to personal finance products like bank accounts, credit cards, and loans. Whether you get a recommendation from a family member or friend, get a flyer in the mail, or see an ad online, you may be tempted to go with the first available option.
Resist that temptation – you should always compare different financial products in order to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.
11. Spending Too Much on Groceries
Groceries are definitely one of the biggest weaknesses in my budget! It’s so easy to spend more than you mean to at the grocery store, especially if you love to cook and eat delicious food.
If cooking at home and eating well is important to you, it’s okay to budget a little extra in the grocery department. But you should try your best to reign it in and stick to a reasonable monthly goal when possible. I’ve found it also helps to plan meals in advance, shop at bulk stores like Costco, and invest in shelf-stable staples like rice and lentils to stretch my budget even further.
12. Buying Everything New
If you’re trying to save money and get your finances under control, buying everything new can siphon off hundreds of dollars in savings each year. No matter what you’re looking to buy, from cars to clothing and everything in between, there are probably cheaper gently used options.
I love trawling Craigslist, yard sales, and thrift stores for hidden gems! While you probably won’t be able to find absolutely everything you need, it’s still a good idea to check out your options before you buy any brand new items at the sticker price.
13. Not Investing in Insurance
When your budget is already tight, it can be tempting to forgo insurance in favor of making ends meet. But going without insurance can put you in an even worse financial situation when you need help the most.
If you’re able to, you should invest in insurance including health insurance, home or renters insurance, and auto insurance to make sure that you’re covered in the event of an emergency. Insurance marketplaces like Policygenius can help you to find an affordable insurance policy that works for you.
14. Ignoring Your Student Loans
Like many Millennials, I have a pretty sizable student loan burden racked up over the course of undergrad and graduate school. Making student loan payments on time each month can be a major strain on your budget, but failing to pay off your loans can have even worse consequences.
Luckily, there are some options to make paying down your loans more bearable. When it comes to federal student loans, you may be eligible for an income-based repayment plan that could drastically reduce your monthly payment. And for private student loans, you may qualify to refinance your loans at a lower rate and save on interest.
15. Spending More than You have to on Phone Plans
Phone plans are another common monthly expense that can add up fast if you’re not careful. When purchasing a phone plan, you should think about what services and data you really need before automatically selecting an expensive plan.
It can be helpful to look back at old billing statements and see how much data you really used each month. You may also want to consider getting on a family plan with family members, friends, or roommates to save money each month.
16. Not Shopping around for Auto Insurance
If you haven’t changed your auto insurance policy in a while, there’s a good chance that you could be saving money each month if you make a switch. That might sound like an auto insurance sales pitch, but it’s true!
Your rates are likely to be lower after you switch if it’s been a long time since you’ve been in an accident, or just because you’ve gotten older and are viewed as a less risky driver by insurance companies. Some car insurance companies, like Metromile, charge you based on how many miles you drive each month, which can be a boon if you’re mostly working from home.
If you’re happy with your insurance provider and don’t want to make a switch, ask them if they can reevaluate your monthly rate or match quotes from the competition.
17. Subscription Bloat
Subscription services have proliferated in recent years, from popular software like Adobe Creative Cloud to monthly subscriptions for everything from TV channels to cute underwear. While it’s easy to sign up for a subscription and forget about it, especially if it only costs a few dollars a month, they can really add up over time.
One way to cut down on subscriptions is to survey your bank statement at the end of each month and evaluate which subscription charges are truly worth it.
If you don’t want to take the time to do this yourself, you can set up an account with Trim, a service dedicated to helping you clear out your unused subscriptions. They’ll even negotiate your bills for you on your behalf!
18. Lifestyle Inflation
Whether you just got a pay raise or started a lucrative side hustle, it can feel incredibly freeing to have a little extra cash left over at the end of each month. While it’s tempting to treat yourself and celebrate your new success, you shouldn’t let lifestyle inflation eat into your budget. By living within your means and socking away any additional money you earn into savings and investments, you can set yourself up for a bright financial future.
19. Not Having a Career Plan
While reducing your expenses, saving, and investing are all good strategies toward sound financial health, one of the most effective ways to jumpstart your finances is to earn more money. This isn’t always as difficult as it sounds!
By planning out your career path, you can work toward earning more in the future. If you think you’re not being compensated enough at your current job, you might want to consider asking for a raise or applying to better-compensated positions at other companies.
20. Not Setting Financial Goals
Earning, budgeting, and saving money is a lot easier to do if you have concrete goals in mind. Whether your goal is to be debt-free, save up for a major expense like a new car or a wedding ring, buy a house, or even retire early, setting financial goals can motivate you to break bad money habits and create new, healthy habits that help you achieve your dreams.
Personally, I’m saving up for a little house in the countryside with a big vegetable garden and a little chicken coop.
21. Not Setting Personal Goals
Financial goals are usually pretty tightly interwoven with personal goals. Maybe your personal goal is to work part-time and spend more time with family, or maybe you dream of saving up money to travel the world.
Maybe you’re happy making less money at a job that you believe in and that makes the world a better place, or maybe you prefer a low-stress job with decent pay that allows you to devote time to creative projects. It’s a good idea to get a firm sense of your personal goals so that you can then use them to inform your professional and financial goals.
Personal finance doesn’t take place in a vacuum, and there are plenty of factors outside our control when it comes to making and saving money. If there’s a cause you care about that has an impact on personal finance, like equitable worker compensation, universal healthcare, predatory lending, or other issues, you should consider getting involved.
While one person might not be able to change these big issues alone, many people working together can have a positive impact that stretches far beyond your own bank account.
Summary
The flip side to breaking bad habits when it comes to money is forming better ones in their place. This can be especially hard if you’re struggling financially, but every little step you take in the present will pay off dividends in the future.