Over the years, consumer perception of electric vehicles has been all over the map, with some early adopters embracing them and others feeling apprehensive about issues like battery range, price, and the environmental impact of EV production.
Within the next decade, however, the choice to buy an EV or other “zero-emission” model might produce no hesitation at all: It might be the only new car you can buy where you live.
At least a dozen states have made moves to restrict the sale of vehicles driven purely by internal combustion engines, with nine working toward an all-out ban by 2035. The states are following California’s Advanced Clean Cars II (ACCII) rule, which requires automakers and car dealers to sell increasingly more zero-emissions vehicles each year between 2026 and 2035. For example, in 2026, 35% of new vehicles on car lots within an ACCII state must be emission-free. That percentage will gradually increase year after year to 100% by 2035 — an effective ban on purely gas-powered vehicles.
In addition to EVs, California’s definition of zero-emission vehicles includes battery-electric, hydrogen fuel cell electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.
So far, eight states and Washington, D.C., have adopted ACCII for light passenger vehicles. The states are Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington, and, most recently, Virginia. Connecticut and Maine are also considering the measures but haven’t adopted them formally, while Colorado, New Mexico, Delaware and Minnesota have partially adopted a large portion of the standards.
What the ban means for owners of gas cars
To be clear, the ACCII regulations will only prohibit the sale of newinternal-combustion passenger vehicles (cars, SUVs and light-duty trucks) starting in 2035. They wouldn’t, however, require drivers of gas cars to forfeit ownership of previous models.
Residents of these states could still buy used gas-powered vehicles within the state’s borders. Likewise, nothing in the regulation would prohibit drivers from buying a new gas car from a state without the ban, then registering it within a state that has one. Although amendments can be made at any time, currently only the sale of gas-powered cars by 2035 would be prohibited in a state whose standards are identical to ACCII.
Of course, regardless of the ban, drivers who want a new internal-combustion vehicle in 2035 may have fewer choices. Already Stellantis — the company behind Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, and Jeep — has warned dealers it will ship fewer gas cars to states that follow California’s emissions standards, while also pledging to have electric vehicles make up half of its North American sales by 2030.
Meanwhile, other automakers have announced plans to cease production of fully gas-powered cars at around the same time that the ACCII would phase them out. For example, General Motors plans to stop making gas cars by 2035, with an earlier date of 2030 for a fully electric lineup of Cadillac and Buick. Ford has said it plans for EVs to make up half of car sales by 2030. Other car companies that have pledged to sell electric only include Volvo (2030), Mercedes-Benz (2030), Honda (2040) and Volkswagen (2040).
While some of these goals are objectively ambitious (and often contingent on market conditions), they’re in lockstep with gas car bans planned by nations with large economies, including those in the European Union (2035), Japan (mid-2030s) and South Korea (2035), among others.
Will other states ban gas cars in the future?
As it stands, most states don’t have plans to discontinue the sale of gas-powered vehicles in the near future. But it’s possible that other states will join those that do, especially if they tend to follow California’s stricter vehicle emission standards.
Because of the Clean Air Act, no state except California can create its own fuel economy standards, but states can choose to adopt California’s guidelines under a provision called Section 177. Presently, 17 states have emission standards tied to California’s: Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.
So far, only eight of these states have formally adopted a standard that’s identical to California’s Advanced Clean Cars II regulations. Colorado, New Mexico and Delaware have partially adopted the standard, but instead of a 2035 ban on gas-powered vehicles, these three states will require 82% of new car sales to be emission-free by 2032. Minnesota enacted its “Clean Cars Minnesota” rule this year, which requires automakers to cut down on emissions and produce more zero-emission cars. However, it doesn’t have plans to ban gas cars.
Likewise, neither Pennsylvania nor Nevada have announced plans to follow California’s standards. Maine and Connecticut were expected to adopt ACCII regulations, though both states have so far voted against them.
If states don’t follow California’s standards, they’ll have to comply with federal regulations, which currently don’t have a plan to ban gas vehicles. But federal policy is shifting. In March 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency finalized measures that require automakers to gradually reduce the emissions associated with the vehicles they sell. The rule applies to model years 2027 through 2032.
While the new rules don’t require a specific percentage of sales to be zero-emission vehicles, the Biden administration estimates the new emission standards could be met if EVs make up 56% of new car sales by 2032 (with another 13% of sales composed of plug-in hybrids or other partially electric cars).
It’s not a ban per se on entirely gas-powered vehicles. But, when coupled with state bans, plus automakers’ pledges to produce less of them, it could mean fewer engines that go “potato potato potato”and more that hum quietly off dealership lots.
Welcoming a new addition to the family is an exciting and joyous occasion, and preparing a nursery is often one of the most anticipated tasks for expectant parents. The nursery is not just a room; it’s a sanctuary where your little one will spend countless hours sleeping, playing, and growing during their formative years. Curating the perfect nursery involves thoughtful consideration of both functionality and aesthetics. Check out these nursery decor ideas from experts to see curated recommendations.
Nursery decor: Tips and tricks to test out
“A nursery should spark calm,” Taylor Clarke, mom and founder of Amborella Organics seed-bearing lollipops. “We do this with earth-toned colors, living plants, and objects like a star-shaped plush that remind us how magical this time of life is.” As we dive into other expert opinions on curating the perfect nursery, Clarke reminds us to not forget the magic of this stage of life.
Establish your vision
Before diving into decorating, take some time to envision the atmosphere you want to create. Consider themes, color schemes, and overall ambiance. When it comes to a theme or color palette, Bowy Lou recommends choosing something that resonates with you. “Whether it’s a nature-inspired theme, a classic color scheme, or a whimsical motif, this will guide your choices in furniture, decorations, and textiles,” the Bowy Lou team recommends. “Additionally, if you’re looking to save money, you might be able to keep an eye out on online reselling platforms such as Facebook Marketplace or thrift shops to begin gathering or collecting items that meet your aesthetic.”
Choose a calming color palette and utilize natural materials
Selecting the right color palette sets the tone for the entire room. “Opt for soft, neutral hues like pastel blues, greens, creams, light grays, or gentle yellows to create a calming atmosphere conducive to relaxation, sleep, and independent play,” Karri Bowen-Poole, founder and CEO of Smart Playrooms and Project Playroom recommends.
Ashley Morrisey with Western Sky Photography recommends considering your preferences when selecting a color palette. “You may have heard there are colors that make a room bright or enhance specific feelings, so it would make sense to choose those that add to the calm, soothing environment you want,” Morrisey begins, “but, it’s equally as true that choosing colors you love will help make the room a space you’ll enjoy spending lots of time in with your baby, and let’s be honest, you’ve got a lot of future diaper changes, feedings, play times, and bedtimes in this room.”
Embrace nature-inspired elements as well, to bring an element of texture to the room. “Incorporating furniture and decor made from natural materials like wood and cotton will evoke a sense of warmth and comfort while also minimizing exposure to harsh chemicals,” Bowen-Poole suggests. Consider adding potted plants or a small indoor garden to purify the air and further create a calming, nature-inspired environment.
Frankie Wallace, owner of LoveFrankieArt.com, echoes the importance of a balance between colors and natural elements. “Opt for soft, neutral colors such as taupe or soft grey, and choose patterns that are subtle and gentle, like small polka dots, stripes, or delicate floral prints. These create a serene atmosphere without overwhelming your baby’s delicate senses, and are also calming for parents too,” Wallace notes. “Nature-inspired accents like potted plants, botanical prints, or nature-themed wall decals are also great to incorporate. Nature has a calming effect and can help create a peaceful atmosphere in the nursery.”
Invest in quality furniture
Key furniture pieces like a crib, changing table, and storage units are essential for a functional nursery. “Incorporating vintage or heirloom pieces such as a solid wood dresser passed down from a relative, or one with a marble top discovered at an antique shop will have lasting design power over many store-bought dressers,” Darcy Oliver, founder of Darcy Oliver Design recommends. “The dresser can also act as a changing station for your baby, so be mindful of a size that could accommodate a changing pad.”
Convertible furniture, such as cribs that transform into toddler beds, offers long-term value and versatility. “Searching for the perfect crib may seem like a daunting task, but I recommend buying this item new or fairly new for safety reasons,” Oliver recommends.
Prioritize safety
Safety should be a top priority when designing a nursery. Ensure that furniture meets safety standards, anchor heavy items to the wall to prevent tipping, and eliminate any potential hazards such as loose cords or small objects that could pose a choking risk.
A comfortable crib mattress and soft, breathable bedding are essential for promoting safe and restful sleep. Choose bedding made from organic materials and avoid heavy blankets or pillows, as they can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Add personal touches
Infuse the nursery with personal touches that reflect your style and values, like name-centric decor. Name decor is also an easy way to make the room feel personalized. “Monogramming the space above your baby’s bed is a popular design concept. The monogram makes their room even more personalized and their own,” Sara from Lizz and Roo notes. “Similar to a monogram, framing their name above their bed is a great personalization to have for them to make their room their own.”
“I remember when my son was about to be born – all of a sudden I wanted to clean and organize my house and create the perfect nursery. I posted this random information on Facebook, and immediately a consensus was formed: I was “nesting,” Crystal Waddell, president of Collage and Wood shares.
“Over the years, as my company has grown, we serve mothers all over the world who want to personalize the walls for their new baby. And when I say I get it, you now know, I totally get it. Think custom lettering, themed wooden cutouts, or your baby’s name in a giant script font, these items create that perfect personalized space for your baby and help you meet your nesting needs.”
Consider sensory stimulation
Stimulate your baby’s senses with visually engaging elements like mobiles, wall decals, and textured rugs. Soft lighting, such as dimmable lamps or string lights, creates a cozy atmosphere conducive to relaxation.
Leave room to grow
Remember that your baby will grow quickly, and their needs will evolve over time. “If the nursery will eventually morph into your child’s room, having the flexibility to change the room into the next stage is key,” Sandra Gordon, owner of Baby Products Mom, notes. “That next stage could be in a year or so when your baby-turned-toddler-turned-preschooler starts to have an opinion. Ideally, for a convertible nursery, you should be able to lift anything babyish, such as artwork, out of the room. In other words, keep babyish items off permanent surfaces, such as pink or blue walls or carpets. But if the room will be a dedicated nursery for years to come (for your next babies), go ahead and baby-ify all you want.”
Fariha Nasir, with Pennies for a Fortune, echoes the sentiment of keeping the future in mind. “Focus on sourcing high-quality pieces that will grow with the child. Same with seating – furniture that’s marketed as nursery furniture like rockers and gliders isn’t always great quality. Getting a stylish yet comfortable armchair with a separate ottoman will provide the same comfort and functionality,” Nasir shares. “That nursing chair can later be part of a reading corner for the room in the future.”
Incorporate functionality into your nursery decor
Babies come with a lot of stuff, from diapers and clothes to toys and books. Maximize storage space with bins, baskets, shelves, and closets to keep essentials organized and easily accessible. “In small spaces, floor space is a precious commodity so get things off the floor wherever you can,” Lisa Janvrin, with Janvrin and Co, suggests. “This means installing storage and lighting on the walls. There are tons of options for floating bookshelves, side tables, and plug-in wall sconces that are adorable and functional.”
In terms of nap and nighttime routines, nightlights or dimmers can also help create a soothing atmosphere when darkness is important, Kristeen Waddell notes. “Lack of lighting is everything. Invest in blackout curtains to regulate light and promote better sleep, especially during daytime naps. However, you will want a nice overhead light for play, too,” Waddell shares.
Choose soft flooring options
Opt for soft flooring materials like carpet or area rugs to provide a comfortable and safe surface for your baby to crawl and play. “A soft rug is a must-have for tummy time and a cozy place for baby to explore the world,” Caitlin De Lay notes. “Functional pieces will grow with your child and create a calming space to bring the baby home; plus, they can all double as design accents.” Choose rugs with low pile or natural fibers that are easy to clean and hypoallergenic to minimize the risk of allergies.
Design a nursing nook
“There needs to be comfortable seating for nursing a baby, with a footstool,” Medina King, creative director of MK Kids Interiors says. “This could be in the form of a stylish rocker or a comfortable armchair with a pouffe. Parents will spend a lot of time nursing and comforting babies in the early days of their lives, so it’s important to design it around the needs and comfort of the family and parents taking care of the baby.”
Lucy Bowman, with LucyJoHome.com, agrees, noting the importance of paying the nursery proper attention. “Nurseries are a place of rest and sweet memories and deserve attention,” Bowman shares. “The perfect nursery will have a comfortable and beautiful chair for parent and child to bond.”
Don’t be afraid to get creative with nursery decor ideas
Photographer, Kristal Bean, recommends adding an accent wall for a creative touch. “You’re not limited to just a different color for an accent wall — there are endless gorgeous wallpaper and large wall decal options, too,” Bean shares. “This is a simple way to customize the nursery, and you can probably get it done over a weekend. If you’ve already fallen in love with the wall color in your baby’s room, but you’re dying to add a little something extra to the space, wallpaper on the ceiling is an unforgettable touch.”
Savanna Nave, owner of SavannaBrooke.com, reminds to not forget flair and interest. “Add interest and character by either using wallpaper, a wall treatment (board & batten), patterned curtains, or a statement rug. All of these areas are a great way to incorporate color and a fun pattern,” Nave suggests. “When adding flair, stick to your style while also making the room baby-friendly and functional. If your style is boho, incorporate some of those features into the room.”
Consider soundproofing as part of your nursery decor
Minimize disruptions and create a peaceful environment for both you and your baby by soundproofing the nursery. Install heavy curtains or sound-absorbing panels to dampen outside noise, and consider using a white noise machine to mask any sudden sounds that could disturb your baby’s sleep.
Crafting a sanctuary for you and your little one
“As the parent, you will be spending a lot of time in that room with your baby”, Nina Spears, co-founder and editor-in-chief of baby chick, explains. “In the nursery, there needs to be a designated space for the baby to sleep, to feed, and to be changed. But, make a space in the room where you can rest with the baby and enjoy, too. This room should be a space that you love, it brings you joy and makes you feel calm. Your baby won’t care what it looks like, so make it functional and comfortable for you too.”
Curating and creating the perfect nursery is a labor of love that involves careful planning, creativity, and attention to detail. By following these guidelines and infusing your unique style and personality into the design, you can create a serene sanctuary where your little one can thrive and flourish. After all, there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing your baby surrounded by a space that is as beautiful and nurturing as they are.
A newly listed Manhattan Beach property is aiming for the crown. Landing hot on the market with a $25 million asking price, a 5-bedroom oceanfront house with a coveted address on The Strand is looking to set a new real estate record.
Located at 1800 The Strand, the property sits on a prime beachfront corner lot, right at the heart of a vibrant beach scene. And not just any beach, but one of California’s finest.
The Strand, Manhattan Beach’s most exclusive address, stretches along the coastline of the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking ocean views and miles of clean, sandy beaches. Properties along The Strand are among the most desirable in California, offering direct beach access and proximity to high-end shops and gourmet restaurants.
Listed for $25 million with Bryn Stroyke (Co-Founder and Broker of Stroyke Properties Group at Bayside Real Estate Partners), 1800 The Strand has the potential to outshine all the other neighboring homes if it sells anywhere near its asking price.
So let’s take a closer look at the 5-bedroom home that can shatter Manhattan Beach’s real estate records.
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Specs & features
Clocking in at 5,329 square feet, the 2000-built home comes with 5 spacious bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, and a 5-car garage parking (including two vaulted spaces) plus room for 2 more vehicles on the apron.
Custom-built to be “the best home on The Strand”
“When the home was finished in 2000, it was built out at over $700/SF which was an extraordinary number [at the time],” the property’s listing agent tells us, sharing that the beach house was lauded as the “best home on the Strand when it was completed.”
See also: Mark Cuban’s Million-Dollar-Mansions are the Definition of Luxury Living
It has a dramatic staircase
“The most dramatic element of the home is the custom floating spiral wood staircase which had to be lowered into the home via a skylight opening using a large crane. It’s very dramatic, and is the first thing you see when you walk in the front door,” agent Bryn Stroyke shares exclusively with Fancy Pants Homes.
And an open floorplan to take in the ocean views
Per the listing, the home’s open floor plan was designed to maximize natural light and embrace stunning vistas of the ocean, Manhattan Beach Pier, Palos Verdes Peninsula, and Catalina Island. Its strategic location benefits from the southern exposure unique to north-corner lots, capturing iconic views that elevate every gathering.
Standout areas include a bright & airy Great Room and a bedroom with views for days
With its rooms practically inviting the ocean in through its extra large windows, picking a favorite space is quite the task. Even the property’s agent had a hard time choosing a favorite:
“The most impressive room is probably the main living area’s Great Room, although the Primary Bedroom might have a bone to pick with that selection.“
Sporting a “best in class location”
“It is rare to get a best in class property that is also in a best in class location –– this home is it. Many people consider 1800 The Strand to be the absolute center of the bullseye and the very best corner lot on the Strand,” Bryn Stroyke says about the property’s enviable location, further detailing why the corner lot is so desirable:
“Corners are special not just because of the enhanced views but also because you get side yard patios and can actually build 2′ wider… which may not seem like a lot but on 33′ wide lots… it’s a difference-maker.”
Aiming for the crown: setting a new record for the most expensive home on The Strand
Known for its premium prices, Manhattan Beach has seen many properties on The Strand compete for the title of the priciest home sold in this upscale area. A modern, $36M house with luxury resort vibes gave it a shot a couple of years back, as did a $22 million Selling Sunset-featured property.
The numbers to beat
There’s also a triple-lot property that’s reportedly eyeing a $150 million sale, but none have managed so far to upstage the current record holder, a $19.2 million house at 508 The Strand — sold by the same team that currently reps 1800 The Strand.
However, the highest sale recorded in the area is still a lot value property at 1000 The Strand which sold in 2017 for $21 million.
Priced at $25 million, 1800 The Strand has all the potential to dethrone both current record holders and become the most expensive house ever sold in Manhattan Beach.
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Want to learn how to make $5,000 fast? Whether you’re in a rush to meet a financial goal this week or aiming for a steady income of $5,000 per month, there are several ways to make it happen. You’ll find different options, from short-term jobs that pay a lot at once to long-term ideas that…
Want to learn how to make $5,000 fast?
Whether you’re in a rush to meet a financial goal this week or aiming for a steady income of $5,000 per month, there are several ways to make it happen.
You’ll find different options, from short-term jobs that pay a lot at once to long-term ideas that bring in money regularly. And, sometimes, combining a few methods can help you reach $5,000 faster.
If you’re looking to make $5,000 fast, you’re not alone. Many people need a big amount of money quickly – for unexpected costs, important purchases, just to save up, or simply to make a stable amount of money regularly.
Best Ways To Make $5,000 Fast
Below is how you can make $5,000 fast.
1. Flip items for resale
If you want to learn how to make $5,000 without a job, then one way may be to flip items for resale.
Flipping items for resale means you buy things at a low price and sell them for more. This could be handmade goods, vintage items (like old games, cameras, clothing, etc.), furniture, sports equipment, appliances, and more.
Look for undervalued items at flea markets, garage sales, yard sales, and thrift stores, and then sell them for a profit. This job involves having an eye to spot valuable items that you think can be resold at a higher price.
You can resell items on eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and more.
I have flipped many, many items for resale over the years, and I think it’s a great way to work from home and make money on your own schedule.
Recommended reading: How Melissa Made $40,000 In One Year Flipping Items
2. Freelance online work
Making $5,000 a month from home is possible by becoming a freelancer.
Freelancers are people who run their own businesses and provide services to other businesses or clients on a contract basis. As a freelancer, you might be hired for onetime projects by businesses or you could secure long-term contract work with a company.
Online freelancing jobs include:
And more.
You can find freelance gigs through networking, reaching out to possible clients through email or phone, creating a freelance listing on Fiverr, searching for gigs on Upwork, and more.
I have personally been a freelancer for years (mainly freelance writing, and, in the past, I have also done freelance social media management), and it’s a great way to earn income while still being your own boss with a flexible schedule.
Recommended reading: 16 Best Freelance Jobs & How To Get Started
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This free 76-minute workshop answers all of the most common questions about how to become a proofreader, and even talks about the 5 signs that proofreading could be a perfect fit for you.
3. Pet sit and dog walk
Rover is a website that connects pet owners with pet sitters and dog walkers. You can work this job on weekends all year round or choose to be available only during the summer months – it’s flexible and up to you.
Getting started on Rover is simple. You create a profile highlighting your experience with pets and the services you offer, such as dog walking, pet sitting, and house sitting.
After setting up your profile, customers will send you requests, and you can discuss pricing with them. Rover handles payment processing, and you’ll receive payments directly into your account.
I have two close family members who are professional dog walkers, and they both love this side hustle.
Recommended reading: 7 Best Dog Walking Apps To Make Extra Money
4. Short-term rental your home
If you have a spare room in your home that you’re not using, you may want to try renting it out either on a short-term basis through Airbnb or Vrbo or by finding a long-term roommate to make extra cash.
I’ve rented out rooms multiple times before to roommates, and it’s a great way to earn extra income from unused space.
Recommended reading: What You Need To Know About Renting A Room In Your House
5. Deliver food
If you’re looking to make $5,000, finding a food delivery driving gig is a good option.
With companies like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Instacart, you can start earning money by bringing people their favorite food. It’s flexible too, so you decide when you work and for how long.
Delivery services like Instacart hire personal grocery shoppers, and the average shopper earns $15 to $20 per hour delivering groceries. Drivers are paid per order, and you keep 100% of your tips. You can also pick your own schedule, which means teachers can work in the evenings or weekends, or only during the summer if they prefer.
6. Sell high-value items
If you’re looking to make a quick $5,000, selling high-value items can be a smart move. Take a look around your home; you might have things you don’t need that others are willing to buy for a good price.
You could sell an old cell phone, laptop, camera, designer clothes, your car, and more.
There are many different buyers for high-value items – from people like you and me on Facebook, to pawn shops, eBay, and more.
7. Tutor
Tutors who specialize in subjects such as math, language, science, graphic design, and more help students improve in those areas.
And, some tutors can make money rather quickly, such as one who specializes in college courses or high-level exams.
Becoming an online tutor depends on the subject you want to teach. Experience in the field is usually required, but there are opportunities for beginners as well. Tutors who teach advanced subjects like calculus or college entrance exams generally earn more than those teaching simpler topics.
Tutoring rates can range from $15 to over $100 per hour, depending on the subject and where you sell your tutoring services.
8. Stock photo photography
Stock image websites are popular platforms where photographers can sell their pictures. Customers can buy royalty-free photos for personal or business use, and these images are commonly used in websites, TV shows, books, social media, and more.
One advantage of using stock photo sites is that they can generate passive income. You can take pictures, upload them, and potentially earn money from them for months or even years. You’ll earn a commission every time someone downloads your photos.
Some well-known stock photo websites include Shutterstock, iStock by Getty Images, Adobe Stock, and Dreamstime.
In the world of stock photography, quality is important, but quantity matters too. The more pictures you have in your stock photo portfolio, the more potential you have to earn money.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
9. Sell an online course
Creating and selling an online course can be a great way to make money quickly, especially if you have knowledge or skills in a high-demand area.
If you have expertise in a certain subject, you can create and sell an online course. Platforms like Teachable and Udemy allow you to develop, host, and sell your course to students. While you may not earn $1,000 immediately, having students enroll over time can generate a substantial income.
I have an online course that I personally sell, Making Sense of Affiliate Marketing. I have also taken many online courses, such as on helping my toddler get better sleep, speech therapy for parents, business courses, blogging courses, and so much more.
There are many different subjects you can teach in an online course, including:
Painting
Music lessons
Exercise
Parenting
Languages
Photography and photo editing
Plants and gardening
Baking and cooking
Arts and crafts
10. Rent out your unused storage space
Just like Airbnb transformed the way you can earn money from your spare room, peer-to-peer storage platforms are doing the same for your unused spaces.
If you have extra space at home, consider renting it out to local people for storage. This could be a garage, driveway, closet, basement, or attic.
While making $1,000 in a single day from this may be challenging, renting out your space can provide a steady, long-term income when combined with other income sources.
You can use a website like Neighbor to list your available space for rent, potentially earning up to $15,000 per year.
11. Sell your jewelry
If you need to learn how to make $5,000 dollars in a day, then one option is to sell any expensive jewelry that you may have.
If you’ve got jewelry you no longer wear, selling it can be a quick way to earn some cash. You might have pieces like engagement rings, necklaces, or bracelets tucked away.
Recommended reading: Where To Sell Jewelry: 12 Best Places For Extra Money
12. Flip real estate
Flipping real estate means buying homes that need fixing, making improvements, and selling them for a profit. This can be a way to make $5,000 (and well over that if you are smart and careful!).
To do this type of real estate investment successfully, you may start by focusing on making cost-effective improvements, especially in areas like the kitchen and bathrooms, and address any major structural or safety issues.
Recommended reading: 23 Best Real Estate Side Hustles To Make Extra Money
14. Sell printables
If you’re looking to make $5,000 online, selling printables is an option.
Printables are digital files that customers can download and print at home, such as grocery shopping checklists, monthly budget planners, wedding invitations, wall art, and more.
I buy printables all the time, and actively search them out at least a few times a month. And, I’m not alone – many people buy printables frequently as well!
I recommend signing up for the Free Workshop: How To Earn Money Selling Printables. This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
15. Help businesses with their Facebook ads
Managing Facebook ads for local businesses is an online job where you can earn at least $1,000 per month per client.
Local businesses want to expand their audience through Facebook ads, but many don’t have the expertise to do it effectively. That’s where you come in. By learning this skill, you can sell your services to small businesses and help them reach more customers online.
Plus, this can be a part-time job that you do in your spare time or even a full-time job.
16. Write an ebook
Creating your own ebook can be a way to earn money online, and you likely have knowledge to share (even if you don’t realize it!) or a good story to write about.
Platforms like Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) allow you to reach a wide audience without a traditional publisher.
Examples of genres you can write in include romance, travel, self-help, sci-fi, and more.
17. Blog
If you want to learn how to make $5,000 from home, then one of my favorite ways is to start a blog.
Now, starting a blog doesn’t instantly make you $5,000 because it takes time to set it up. However, with time and effort, some bloggers can make $5,000 a month in the future.
A blog is a website filled with articles, similar to what you’re reading now. You can start a blog on various topics like personal finance, recipes, travel, pet care, family life, and more.
You can earn money from a blog by partnering with companies for sponsorships, displaying ads, engaging in affiliate marketing (like promoting products on Amazon), and selling items such as ebooks, candles, T-shirts, and other products directly through your blog.
Blogging is my primary source of income, and I make well over $5,000 a month online. It took about six months to earn my first $100 from my blog, so getting started requires some patience. It then took me about a year to reach a monthly income of around $5,000 from blogging.
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
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Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog?
In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
18. Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing is a way to earn money by promoting products or services online, and it’s one of my favorite ways to make $5,000 (or more) fast online.
Affiliate marketing is when someone buys a product through a referral link you share, and you earn a commission.
To start, you will want to find products you genuinely like and believe others will benefit from. Then, sign up for their affiliate program, which will provide you with a unique affiliate link. This link tracks the clicks and purchases made from your recommendation.
Recommended reading: Affiliate Marketing Tips For Bloggers – Free eBook
19. Sell on Amazon
Starting your own Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) business can be a great way to make $5,000 fast.
You can sell items from household goods to clothes, games, electronics, and more.
Selling on Amazon FBA works by you sending the items you want to sell to an Amazon fulfillment warehouse. Amazon stores these items for you until they sell on their platform.
When an item sells, Amazon handles the shipping and sends it directly to the customer. This means you don’t have to worry about packing and shipping the sold items yourself.
Recommended reading: How To Sell Items On Amazon FBA
20. Start a YouTube channel
Creating content for your own YouTube channel can be a fun way to work toward making $5,000 fast.
You can create a YouTube channel about topics such as finance, home improvement, travel, toys, pets, and more. There’s a YouTube channel for almost every interest these days.
Like blogging, this isn’t a guarantee that you’ll make money, and it will definitely take time to reach $5,000. But, it can be a lot of fun, and you get to be your own boss.
21. Buy a business that already makes income
Buying a business that’s already bringing in money is a way to possibly skip the tough start-up phase and have a business that is making over $5,000.
Now, existing businesses are typically expensive – someone has done a lot of hard work building a business over years and years, after all. They can cost anywhere from a few thousand to millions or even billions of dollars.
You can start by looking at online marketplaces like BizBuySell or Flippa. They list all kinds of businesses for sale, and you’ll see lots of options from online sites (like retail stores and blogs) to local shops (like bike shops, clothing stores, toy stores, and laundromats).
An example – I was recently in a small local bike shop, and they told me that it was for sale. They earned around $20,000 a month (I’m not sure if that was before or after expenses or anything else), and their shop was for sale for around $500,000. You got all the bikes, parts, customers, etc. with the sale. The building wasn’t owned by them, they had monthly rent and other bills to pay. I’m not going to say if this was a good or bad deal – it’s just an example of a real business that is for sale that I recently came across.
22. Consulting
Consulting is when you provide expert advice to individuals or businesses facing challenges. Consultants use their knowledge to understand problems, give advice, and help clients make better decisions from an outside perspective.
Consultants work in fields like management, finance, technology, or marketing. They focus on areas like strategy, process improvement, or restructuring to help clients achieve their goals effectively.
Here’s an example of how a consulting gig works: A company is struggling with managing its products and deliveries. They bring in a consultant who knows a lot about solving these issues. First, the consultant looks at how things are currently done. Then, they suggest better ways to store and ship items. The consultant helps put these ideas into action and teaches the company’s team how to use the new methods. Even after the changes, the consultant keeps an eye on things to make sure everything works well. This helps the company save money and makes sure that customers get what they need on time.
23. Detail cars
Starting a mobile car detailing business can be a way to earn money quickly. After all, you don’t need a lot to get started, and people are always wanting a good detailer to clean their car.
You’ll want to start by getting quality cleaning supplies like car shampoo, wax, and microfiber towels. You can then set fair prices based on what others charge nearby and promote your services on social media and with local businesses.
24. Rideshare driving gigs
Driving for a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft can be a way to reach your $5,000 goal quickly.
Here’s how you can work toward earning $5,000 with Uber or Lyft:
Drive during peak hours when demand is high, such as weekend nights, rush hours, or during busy events in your city.
Maximize your earnings by strategically positioning yourself in high-demand areas where there are plenty of potential riders, like near popular restaurants, bars, or events.
Take advantage of Uber’s driver bonuses, which may include incentives for completing a certain number of rides or driving during specific times. For example, you might earn an extra $10 for completing three rides in a row during rush hour.
While you won’t make $5,000 in one day, driving for a ride-sharing service can be a flexible way to earn money and work toward reaching your financial goal over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to make $5,000 fast.
What are some ways to earn an extra $5,000 quickly?
If you need to make an extra $5,000 quickly, then selling expensive items that you already own is usually the fastest thing that I recommend doing. This is because you may have expensive things in your home already – like jewelry or electronics – that you can sell and get paid for within just a few days.
Can I make $5,000 in a single day and how?
Making $5,000 in a single day is hard but not impossible. It may require a combination of having high-value items to sell or landing a big client for your freelance business. It’s about making the right move at the right time with the resources you have.
How can I double $5,000 dollars?
There are many ways to double $5,000 dollars, but it will depend on how much time you have to double your money, as well as how much risk you want to take on. Some ways will be much more risky than others, such as by investing in stocks or real estate. Due to this, it’s important to research and consider your risk tolerance before investing your money.
How can I make $5,000 in a month?
Ways to make $5,000 in a month can include freelance writing, blogging, proofreading, bookkeeping, and more.
How to make $5,000 fast without a job?
If you want to make $5,000 fast but not get a job, then the fastest thing to do is typically to sell items around your home that you already have, such as jewelry or electronics. You can also combine a bunch of different side hustles, such as freelancing, selling stuff, running a business, flipping real estate, and even small things like taking online surveys (like Survey Junkie for free gift cards).
How to make $5,000 a day online?
Some ways to make $5,000 a day online may include selling courses or other digital products. Now, this will not be an easy thing to do, and it will require a lot of hard work (as well as some luck).
How To Make $5,000 Fast – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to make $5,000 fast.
As you read above, there are many different ways to make $5,000. Some are faster than others (such as selling expensive items that you already own), and others may be more of a full-time career (such as freelance proofreading).
Discover methods to achieve financial harmony in relationships and why fiduciary advisors are often considered trustworthy.
Sara’s Corner: How can couples equitably share the mental load of managing finances? Can you trust fiduciary financial advisors? Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner begin with a discussion about the division of financial responsibilities among couples to help you understand how to create financial harmony in your relationship.
Today’s Money Question: Elizabeth Ayoola joins Sean to explain how you can choose a financial professional to work with, starting with an in-depth look at different types of fiduciaries including Certified Financial Planners (CFPs), financial coaches, and financial therapists. They discuss the nuances of fiduciary compensation structures and explain how you can advocate for yourself when selecting a financial advisor to work with.
Check out this episode on your favorite podcast platform, including:
NerdWallet stories related to this episode:
Episode transcript
This transcript was generated from podcast audio by an AI tool.
Sean Pyles:
Do you know which financial advisors you can trust and which might just be looking to make a buck? Well, this episode will help you sort the good from the sketchy in the world of financial advice.
Sara Rathner:
Welcome to NerdWallet’s Smart Money Podcast, where we help you make smarter financial decisions one money question at a time. I’m Sara Rathner.
Sean Pyles:
And I’m Sean Pyles. This episode, we’re joined by our co-host Elizabeth Ayoola to answer a listener’s question about fiduciary financial advisors. Are they all they’re hyped up to be and how do they compare to other folks looking to make money from giving advice?
Sara Rathner:
I would say the answer to those questions are usually, and they’re better, but I don’t want to steal your and Elizabeth’s thunder.
Sean Pyles:
I appreciate the restraint, Sara, even though you did just say those things.
But anyway, before we get into that, we’re going to hang out for a bit in Sara’s Corner. This is a thing I just made up where we hear from Sara about something that she recently wrote. Sara’s Corner, it’s cozy here.
Sara Rathner:
I mean, I do keep a blanket on the back of my desk chair, so it is cozy here.
Sean Pyles:
Sounds nice.
Sara Rathner:
Yeah. My corner is cozy and also may be full of emotionally fraught conversations because I do really like to write about couples and money, so let’s bring on the fighting.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah, that’s a good combination, I’d say.
So Sara, you recently wrote an article about how couples can share the mental load of money management. So to start, what inspired you to write this article? Are you giving us a peek into the Rathner household?
Sara Rathner:
Maybe a little deep down, but honestly, it’s really about what my social media algorithms are serving up lately, besides baby sleep experts and a little bit of Zillow Gone Wild, which is an account I highly recommend. So fun. You never know when an indoor pool’s going to pop up.
There are quite a few people who are influencer-type personalities who discuss topics like the mental load and emotional labor within families and within households, and it got me thinking about something that causes a lot of fights about who’s handling what task, and that is, as always, money.
Sean Pyles:
So in your article, you write that “Couples can fall into unproductive patterns that can lead to conflict, resentment, and even willful ignorance.” And this goes beyond money in a lot of relationships, and I do feel like this is something that anyone who’s been in a long-term relationship can relate to. So can you give us an example of one of these unproductive patterns and how can they be damaging to a relationship?
Sara Rathner:
One source I interviewed talked about what they called a manager-follower dynamic where one person in the couple is in charge and they delegate tasks to their significant other, and that’s fine at work. At home, it could also be fine depending on the task, but sometimes it could get a little icky, and even if one person is handling 100% of a task, you are both benefiting equally from that labor.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. That reminds me of friends I’ve talked with who have found themselves in relationships with partners who really want a parent more than an actual partner, and that can be exhausting to deal with.
Sara Rathner:
Yeah, it’s totally fine to divvy up a task and have one person kind of be like, “I’m the point person for this, so if you have any questions about it, come and ask me,” but you’re agreeing to that together. It’s not this automatic, “Well, I’m the more adulty adult here and you act like a child, so I’m going to be your parent.” That’s a really gross dynamic to have in any romantic relationship. If you are in that right now, I don’t know, reconsider.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah, it can really strip away the romance from that relationship.
Sara Rathner:
Yeah, there’s nothing romantic about constantly reminding your partner to pick up their damn socks already. Adults can put socks in hampers, I’m just saying.
Sean Pyles:
That’s very true. Well, the hard thing is that with money, this can be a really easy dynamic to slip into because one person might know more about managing money than the other, so they end up just taking on all the money tasks or they delegate specific tasks to their partner, and if only one person knows about the finances of the household, that can be a very risky situation for both parties in the relationship.
Sara Rathner:
Exactly. And again, it’s totally fine and totally normal for one of you to feel more confident dealing with money. Maybe you’ve just managed your money differently back when you were single, maybe you work in finance. That is normal, but it’s still both of your responsibility.
And the same source that told me about the manager-follower dynamic also said to me that like any task, money tasks are things that you can learn by doing. So even if you are the less confident one in your relationship when it comes to these kinds of responsibilities, you can still grow your skill set. You can learn by doing. And so as you go forward in the future, you can take on more and more tasks with confidence and not fall into that dynamic where you’re constantly relying on the other person to tell you what to do.
Sean Pyles:
Let’s turn to some solutions. You first suggest that couples approach money as equals, which sounds great. Is the idea here that no one person in the relationship should have more power over their finances than another?
Sara Rathner:
Absolutely. The dynamic where one person handles everything and the other person could not be bothered to know the passwords to any accounts is not good. That’s not a healthy dynamic. At best, it’s unfair. The division of labor is, in that case, is putting a lot of that work on only one person’s shoulders, and at worst, it could be a sign of financial abuse. Withholding your partner’s access to finances is sometimes a situation where you are dealing with abuse and that’s something to keep your eyes open about. But even if your partner is totally happy to hand off the work and know nothing of the household finances, they could end up in a really tough spot if your relationship ends, either through divorce or breaking up or even if the partner passes away.
Sean Pyles:
So it might be a good idea for couples that are living together, have a long-term relationship, and have somewhat intermingled finances to even know the logins to each other’s accounts. Is that something that you’ve explored too?
Sara Rathner:
Yeah, you could even use a password manager to do that because you can share passwords with each other very easily or you could be really lo-fi about it and just have a list stored in a secure place like a safe that you keep updated once a year. You definitely want to both be equal partners in access to the money even if you don’t necessarily divvy up those month-to-month or week-to-week tasks equally.
Sean Pyles:
Well, what about actually getting those money tasks done? How should couples determine who does what?
Sara Rathner:
Well, this is where the whole money date thing comes, and we talk about this a lot. Sit down, pour yourself the beverage of choice, a cup of tea, a glass of wine, and have a chat about what bills are due, what savings goals you have, which kid has outgrown their clothes and needs to go shopping because that’s also a financial thing, all those sorts of money-related responsibilities that you have coming up in the next week, the next month, even the next three months. And in that conversation, you can also divide up the tasks.
Sean Pyles:
And it can be helpful to have different types of meetings at different times. Maybe once a quarter you have a higher-level meeting where you think about where you want to be at the end of that quarter or at the end of the year. And then at the beginning of each month, you can think, “Okay, here are the things we need to get done this month,” and then maybe even on a weekly basis, you can think more tactically around, “Okay, we need to get a bunch of whatever thing at Costco this week and that’s going to be a bigger bite out of our grocery budget, so let’s make sure we make room for that,” just so you have different conversations at different levels as you are managing your finances together.
Sara Rathner:
Yes, and I like to think of it in terms of that timeframe. What has to be done in the next few days, what has to be done this month, and then what’s a longer-term conversation?
Sean Pyles:
Well, this reminds me a little bit about how my partner and I manage other household tasks like doing the dishes, for example. In general, in our household, whoever cooks dinner does not have to load the dishwasher, and if you load the dishwasher, you don’t have to unload the dishwasher when it’s clean. And for us, it really comes down to being about balance.
Sara Rathner:
Exactly. And by splitting up responsibilities this way, you’re also acknowledging the labor that the person who cooked is performing. You do the dishes because you respect the work it took for the other person to cook. And in my house, because we have the baby to wrangle, I do most of the cooking. While I am doing that, my husband is handling the child care because I don’t want to stop cooking to change a dirty diaper because that’s unsanitary. So in our home, it’s this acknowledgement of, “You are 100% dealing with a baby and I’m 100% dealing with the cooking, and we have to split this moment up in order for us to get dinner on the table.”
Sean Pyles:
Well, do you have any other advice for how couples, or I guess anyone co-managing a household together, can find a more harmonious way to manage their finances?
Sara Rathner:
So another thing is once you divvy up those tasks during that money date, another really important thing is owning tasks that you agree to take on from start to finish. And this is where we talk about weaponized incompetence and all those psychological phrases that get thrown around on social media when you say you’re going to do something and you don’t do it and you’re, “Eh, it’s too hard.” No, it’s not.
Sean Pyles:
Just do it.
Sara Rathner:
Right. If you show your partner that you’re going to agree to do something and then you don’t do it to an agreed upon level of completion, you’re showing them that they can’t trust you.
So in your money date, not only do you talk about the major overarching tasks that you both need to complete, but you can break them down into subtasks so it doesn’t feel quite so intimidating. So if you’re the one to step up to own a task, that means you take care of it from start to finish, and it doesn’t mean you can’t ask for help if you get stuck. You are still partners, but you are just the one spearheading everything.
Sean Pyles:
Well, Sara, thanks for sharing your insights. I like hanging out in this corner with you. It’s cozy.
Sara Rathner:
I’ll bring a second blanket for next time-
Sean Pyles:
Thank you.
Sara Rathner:
… so we could build a fort together.
Sean Pyles:
I love it. And listener, if you want to check out Sara’s article, you can find a link to it in this episode’s show notes.
And now let’s check in on this month’s Nerdy question, which was what’s the best thing you spent money on this month? Last week, we heard from a listener who spent money on a third opinion from a doctor ahead of a major surgery and was able to find a more effective and less invasive way to resolve their pain. So hooray for taking charge of your own healthcare.
Sara Rathner:
And here’s what another listener texted us. “Hello. My favorite purchase so far is a used grand piano. I paid $4,000 and $1,000 to move it to my apartment on the third floor, no elevator, but it’s the best money I spent.” Wow. “I practice more than four times a week and it’s worth every penny.”
Sean Pyles:
Ugh, I love that this listener is spending money on something that is both a creative outlet and also likely a very beautiful thing to just have in their apartment. And I’m not going to pretend like spending $5,000 is nothing, it’s a significant chunk of change, but I’m willing to bet that they will get some good use out of it and it might just end up that they put some family photos on it eventually after the novelty of having a piano wears off, but still, it’ll be nice to look at.
Sara Rathner:
Also, I’ll say that having lived in a third-floor walk-up apartment, can I just say how impressed I am that it’s possible to get a grand piano up there? Because that was not what the staircase was like in the apartment building I was living in. Maybe you could hoist it through a window?
Sean Pyles:
Yes, I think you do have to do that. You take out the window. Sometimes you have to get a permit from the city. It can easily be $1,000 or more depending on where you are.
Well, listeners, we have so loved hearing from you and all of the great things that you are doing with your money. So to share the best thing that you spent money on last month, text us or leave a voicemail on the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373. That’s 901-730-NERD, or email us a voice memo at [email protected].
Sara Rathner:
And while you’re at it, send us your money questions too. It is quite literally our job to answer them and we love to hear what situations you’re mulling over. So please tell us and we’ll try and solve these problems together.
Sean Pyles:
Well, before we get into this episode’s money question, we have an exciting announcement. We are running another book giveaway sweepstakes ahead of our next Nerdy Book Club episode.
Sara Rathner:
Our next guest is Jake Cousineau, author of How to Adult: Personal Finance for the Real World, which offers tips to young people on how to get started with managing their money.
Sean Pyles:
To enter for a chance to win our book giveaway, send an email to [email protected] with the subject “Book Sweepstakes” during the sweepstakes period. Entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on May 17th. Include the following information: your first and last name, email address, zip code, and phone number. For more information, please visit our official sweepstakes rules page.
Now let’s get into my conversation with our co-host, Elizabeth Ayoola, about whether fiduciaries are all they’re hyped up to be.
We’re back and answering your money questions to help you make smarter financial decisions. And this episode’s question comes from Ian, who wrote us an email. Here it is. “Hi, team. I hear fiduciaries being peddled like some kind of miracle cure for financial planning, but I’m curious how being a fiduciary actually works. What is the enforcement mechanism? Is there a licensing body, like for nurses or doctors? What makes a fiduciary more trustworthy than someone who is making a promise that they totally have your best interest in mind? Cheers, Ian.”
Elizabeth Ayoola:
This is a good question to ask, especially if you’re trusting someone with your money. And I really like this topic because I recently covered it in a paraplanner course I’m taking. Sean, I know you’re also in the deep waters of coursework since you’re studying to become a certified financial planner professional, which is a fiduciary role. So you’re going to answer Ian’s question so we can test your knowledge.
Sean Pyles:
That is right.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Sean Pyles:
A fiduciary is just a fancy term for someone who has an obligation, usually a legal or professional obligation, to put their client’s interests before their own. A fiduciary can be a doctor caring for your health, a family member managing someone’s estate, or in this case, a financial professional who is managing the personal finances of their clients.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Okay. So in summary, a fiduciary prioritizes you and not their pockets.
Sean Pyles:
That is the idea and the hope, but there’s a little more to it than that, and I really have to hand it to this listener because I appreciate their skepticism about what it means to be a fiduciary because they are touted as the gold standard among financial advisors.
I also think we need to zoom out a little bit and talk about what it means to be a financial advisor because the term “financial advisor” is not regulated. Anyone can call themselves a financial advisor, even the sketchiest, hustle-culture peddlers on TikTok.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
I actually think we could do an entire episode on that, Sean. Right now there’s so many people sharing financial advice, and I’m afraid that people might not be doing enough vetting before taking these people’s financial advice, or even realizing that all advice shared doesn’t have their best interests at heart.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. And as a side note, I’m not a fan of imposter syndrome, but the personal finance space is one where maybe more people should feel imposter syndrome because there are just too many people online without qualifications or experience telling others what to do with their money.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
I second that. And the wrong advice could really lead to great financial chaos for people, so they should absolutely be scared of sharing inaccurate or misleading advice.
Sean Pyles:
Totally. And if I’m being completely honest with myself, part of why I’m pursuing the CFP certification is to quell my own occasional imposter syndrome because I, as a professional in the personal finance space, want to get as much information as I can and I want to be as qualified as I can be to help others, but that’s just me holding myself to a very high standard that I think maybe other people should hold themselves to as well.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
And that’s why I like you, Sean. Okay, obviously there’s other reasons I like you too, but that’s exactly why I’m doing my qualification also because I want to share accurate advice with people. And I love to answer my friends and family’s finances questions when I can, so I want to make sure I actually know what I’m talking about.
Anyway, so back to our listener’s question. Ian wants to know how being a fiduciary actually works in the financial planning space. CFPs are a fiduciary, so how does that actually work in practice, Sean?
Sean Pyles:
Yeah, that’s a good question because Ian asked about licensing to affirm that someone is a fiduciary, and in the personal finance space, that usually means getting a CFP certification, which is the gold standard of education and conduct in the financial planning space. So please indulge me as I give you a sip of the Kool-Aid that I’ve been drinking during my CFP coursework, and I’ll explain what it means to be a certified financial planner professional/fiduciary.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Come on. Tell us, Sean.
Sean Pyles:
Okay. So part of becoming a certified financial planner involves intensive education, passing a difficult exam, but then once you are certified, you have to act according to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct that are outlined by the CFP Board. And there are three parts to this fiduciary duty that is also outlined by the Standard of Conduct.
So first, there’s a duty of loyalty, which states that a CFP professional has to put their client’s interests ahead of their own, like we talked about before. They also have to avoid, disclose, and manage conflicts of interest, and they must only act in the financial interest of the client, not themselves or the firm that they work for. They also have a duty of care, which basically mandates that the CFP professional has to be competent and do their best to help their clients meet their financial goals. Also, they have a duty to follow client instructions, where a CFP professional has to abide by the terms of the engagement with their clients.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Wow, that is a lot, but honestly, it would give me confidence as a client to know that someone jumped through all those hoops for me.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah, and that’s really just scratching the surface, too. And the Standard of Conduct is a big part of why being a CFP is a big deal in the personal finance space.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
But here’s the thing, Sean, our listener, and to be honest, me too, is also wondering about enforcement. So let’s say a CFP professional decides to prioritize them making an extra dollar over what’s best for the client, and I don’t know, let’s say they push them into an investment or some kind of insurance product that isn’t actually a good fit for the client. What happens then? Do they call the cops? What do we do?
Sean Pyles:
The police are not involved in this unfortunately, but there is an enforcement mechanism at the CFP Board. If someone suspects that a CFP isn’t living up to their fiduciary responsibilities, they can file a complaint with the board and the board will investigate, and there are a number of disciplinary actions that it could take, including stripping someone of their certification.
The thing is, the onus is typically on the clients to file the complaints, and that’s part of why hiring a financial professional, hiring a CFP doesn’t mean that you can totally sit back and ignore your money. You still have to be engaged and monitor what’s going on.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
For sure, I learned that the hard way, so I try to learn things here and there. But thanks for explaining that.
I do have another question though. How would the client even know if they aren’t financially savvy or if they have a sketchy history? Are there some telltale signs?
Sean Pyles:
Yeah, this is the really tricky part, right? You’re going to this financial professional because of their expertise, so they probably know more about this topic than you do, and that can make it hard to know if they are BSing you or maybe more likely to violate their ethical duty later on. There are a couple of things that you can do though.
Before you even hire a financial professional, do your due diligence and shop around. I would recommend talking with a few different financial advisors before you decide which one you want to work with long-term. You can think of it like dating in that way. You want to get to know them and feel that you can trust them. And then once you are in this vetting process, I would say turn to our old friend Google and dig into each planner that you’re considering a little bit, like you would anyone that you’re dating. Verify that they actually have the certification that they say they do, and look and see if they’ve had any disciplinary actions that have been marked against them publicly. Also, you can just Google around and see if they’ve done anything else that you find suspicious or weird that you just aren’t on board with.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Wow. I love those tips, Sean. And I also must say, when you said, “Your old friend Google,” it just reminded me about how long I’ve been in a long-term relationship with Google, but the tip’s definitely way more important. So basically, you’re telling us to put our investigator hat on. So okay, what’s the other thing you think people should do?
Sean Pyles:
Okay, so this might sound a little bit squishy, but go with your gut. If you talk with someone enough, you can probably tell if they aren’t confident in their grasp of the information they’re presenting. And even if they are, you might find that they just have a different money philosophy from you, which can signal that you guys are not compatible. For example, I once worked with a financial planner who suggested that I could take a 401(k) loan to solve a short-term cashflow issue that I had. And I personally happened to think that taking a loan against my own retirement for a problem that was going to work itself out anyway was an exceptionally bad idea, so I decided to work with another financial planner instead from that point on.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Wow, that advice does not sound good, especially if it was suggested before exploring other alternatives that may not set you back for retirement. And I do understand that some people have to take out a loan against their 401(k), and that’s the only option that they have, but the downside is it might set you back, but I’m glad you went with your gut.
Sean Pyles:
Right. It wasn’t right from my circumstances or how I like to manage my money, and that’s what the bottom line was for me.
Now, so far, Elizabeth, we’ve been talking a lot about CFPs because that really is going to be the primary type of fiduciary that a lot of people looking for financial planning will encounter, but I want to go back to the idea that there are a lot of other people out there giving personal finance advice.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Mm-hmm. People on TikTok, your nosy friends who are always getting in your business, the people interrupting my YouTube videos with their long-winded ads.
Sean Pyles:
Yes, but also accredited financial coaches and certified financial therapists. Both of those are fiduciaries, but they have different standards of conduct and enforcement mechanisms.
Elizabeth, I know that you have some experience working with financial therapists, so can you give us the rundown on what they do and why someone might benefit from working with one?
Elizabeth Ayoola:
I do, I do have experience with that, Sean. I am a wellness fanatic, that’s just a personal note, so I love the topic of financial therapy and also financial wellness. So essentially a financial therapist can help investors understand their worries and their fears around money. They also help you identify the feelings and the beliefs that you have around your money and your habits. Another way to put it is they help you identify and eliminate your money blocks, which are things getting in the way of you achieving your financial goals.
Sean Pyles:
And financial coaches are somewhere between a CFP and a financial therapist. They help people meet their financial goals, and they might be better suited to help those who aren’t super high-net-worth, don’t have a lot of investable assets. Accredited financial coaches also have a specific focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, which is really important in the personal finance space, considering the racial and gender financial inequity in this country.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Absolutely. They’re doing good work and we have a lot of work to do to close the gap, but as a woman and a Black woman at that, I hope we see more progress in coming years.
Sean Pyles:
So we’ve just run through a few different types of fiduciary financial professionals, and here’s my bottom line: if you are getting individualized financial advice, it’s probably for the best if that person is also a fiduciary because you know that that is a stamp of credibility, and it goes way beyond a financial influencer on TikTok telling you to sign up for their class and then peddling some investment account from a company that’s really just bankrolling their lifestyle.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
1,000%. I know me personally, I’m at a point where I’m growing wealth and I’m trying to make the right investment choices so I can see positive growth in the coming years. On that note, I would definitely go to a fiduciary if I was stuck trying to make a tough financial decision.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. At the least, when you are receiving financial advice from someone, whether in person, on social media, or even on a podcast, I think people should ask themselves three questions: what is this person’s qualifications, how are they getting paid, and why are they doing this?
Elizabeth Ayoola:
I definitely think more people should ask those questions. But Sean, say more about that money part because that’s a big piece of the puzzle too.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. Well, in the financial planning space, there are three main ways that people are compensated beyond a base salary. They can be fee-only, fee-based, and commission-based.
So when you meet with a fee-only advisor, they might charge you an hourly fee or a fee based on a certain percentage of your assets that they’re managing, maybe 1 or 2%. That’s pretty common. And fee-based is really similar, but there is a key difference, and that is that this advisor might get a commission from products that they sell you, like an insurance product or a specific investment account. And commission-based is exactly that: the advisor makes their money from selling financial products. So you can probably imagine why the commission-based pay structure gives some people pause.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
For sure. And then even if the advisor is a fiduciary, being commission-based could muddy the waters a little bit.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. And for those who are really concerned about any conflicts of interest in the financial advisor space, fee-only might be the route where they feel most comfortable.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Well, Sean, thank you for this rundown of what it means to be a fiduciary. Your coursework is courseworking, and I can see the studying is paying off. Do you have any final words?
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. I’d say that if you want a financial professional to help you with your finances, vet them thoroughly, shop around, and remember that at the end of the day, you have to be your own best advocate to get what you want from your money.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Absolutely. And that’s all we have for this episode. Sean, thank you for educating we the people. Remember, we are here for you and we want to hear your money questions to help you make smarter financial decisions, so turn to the Nerds and call or text us your questions at 901-730-6373. That’s 901-730-NERD. You can also email us at [email protected], and also visit nerdwallet.com/podcast for more information on this particular episode. And remember to follow, rate, and review us wherever you’re getting this podcast.
Sean Pyles:
This episode was produced by Tess Vigeland and me. Sara Brink mixed our audio. And a big thank you to NerdWallet’s editors for all their help.
And here’s our brief disclaimer. We are not financial or investment advisors. This nerdy info is provided for general educational and entertainment purposes and may not apply to your specific circumstances.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
And with that said, until next time, turn to the Nerds.
Whether you’re decorating on a budget, trying to be a little more conscious of your consumption, or simply love the thrill of hunting for those amazing, one-of-a-kind finds, thrift-store shopping can be a fun and smart way to create a signature aesthetic for your home. In addition to saving money by thrifting, you can also feel good about keeping items from ending up in a landfill by giving them a second life as part of your decor. But how do you get the best deals, what kinds of pieces should you hunt for and how can you style them without your own home looking like a thrift store? We did some digging to find out.
Looking for striking home decor? This is where pros shop in Dallas-Fort Worth
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The difference between thrift stores and consignment shops
Consignment and antique shops are great, but they tend to be pricier because their collections are curated. These stores do all the hunting down and fixing up for you, and that service is offset via higher price tags. While consignment shops are more likely to have highly sought after antiques from pedigreed brands, you can still certainly find hidden gems at nearly any thrift store — you just may have to put in more effort to find what you’re looking for. Balance the odds of what you want being there with the price range you’re willing to pay when deciding where to shop.
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Getting what you need while giving back to the community
Many of your favorite causes run thrift shops to help fund their programs and services. Prime Thrift near Fair Park benefits American Veterans (AMVETS), Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and other local and national charitable organizations, while Out of the Closet in Oak Lawn benefits the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. Genesis Women’s Shelter, a nonprofit that provides safety, shelter and support for women and children who have experienced domestic violence, operates two thrift stores: one in Oak Lawn and another in South Oak Cliff. There are four Soul’s Harbor locations throughout the metroplex, with proceeds going toward its programs to help men break the cycle of homelessness and addiction. Some of these shops even have exclusive relationships with estate liquidators, increasing your chances of finding treasures among their wares.
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Sign up for the Abode newsletter for a weekly roundup of the latest home, design and real estate stories.
If you’re looking for a bit more than just decor, check out your local ReStore, which benefits Habitat for Humanity. There, you can find actual building materials, such as tile, cabinets, wood flooring, windows, doors or even vintage brick. In addition to these, they also have plenty of new and vintage home furnishings, large appliances and more. With 10 locations across D-FW, it’s a convenient alternative to big-box stores when shopping for your next home design project.
Choose your shopping days wisely
For donation-based thrift stores, Mondays and Tuesdays are typically the best days to shop, because most people tend to drop off items early in the week after spending the weekend cleaning. Signing up for emails is a great way to stay on top of the latest finds and deals, but there’s just no substitute for going in regularly. It works the same with searching online, whether it’s eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace. “I’m a huge fan of Facebook Marketplace” says Whitney Marsh, an interior designer and business owner who furnished her Oak Cliff coffee shop, B-Side, with thrifted finds. “I also really love Souls Harbor in Waxahachie,” Marsh notes.
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Have a strategy before you start shopping
There are two ways to go about hunting vintage pieces. Either have a piece or project in mind and know what you want to pay for it, or be able to spot a good deal. This can involve researching brands, pieces, and eras to be able to find your ideal mix of quality pieces that aren’t in demand. Marsh says that’s her strategy. “I know what I like, and I also know what brands are known for quality goods,” she explains. “I definitely have a style. I’m drawn toward leather furniture, solid wood, wool rugs and unique art.”
For example, you may love midcentury modern (MCM) pieces, but the popularity of decor from that era means there’s more demand, and unscrupulous sellers may assign that label to random items in order to get them to sell. You may find more success by researching some favorite brands or designers from the MCM era and looking for those specifically to avoid fake listings and inflated prices. Be aware that people will list items online with a famous brand name keyword to get more hits, such as saying a “Pottery Barn-style” rug or “MCM-style lamp.” If you’re shopping in person, don’t be afraid to ask the store’s staff about an item you’re looking for; they may have something similar that just hasn’t been put out yet. Or, they might be willing to take down your name and keep an eye out for items on your list — especially if you’re a regular customer.
Simple design rules to consider
Once you’ve found that unique piece you’ve been searching for, how do you style it? Thrifted pieces bring character into a space, but it is possible to have too much of a good thing, says Marsh. “I like to pair thrifted pieces with more high-end textiles. I love an old leather sofa that’s worn in against a very bold luxury wallpaper.” If you buy a well-worn piece and want to play up that lived-in aesthetic, try to surround it with items that are clean and modern. Too much rusticity can end up looking like neglect. Same goes for smaller items, such as pots, frames or books — space them out in designed vignettes throughout your home instead of clustering them all together. Also, keep in mind that pairing thrifted furniture is easier when they share some similar elements. For example, mismatched nightstands look more cohesive if they are roughly the same size and color.
Thrifting can be a way to save big, depending on when and where you shop, and what you’re looking for. “I definitely shop with a specific corner or space in mind. I also really only pull the trigger on things that seem like they’re good quality and the right price,” says Marsh. But if you’re patient, persistent and know what you want and what you’re willing to pay for it, it’s just a matter of time before you find it.
Hey, I’ve just been featured on CNBC and I want to say hello to all of my new readers. You can read the CNBC article here – I made $40,000 a month from 3 income streams during a 4-month cruise around the world—here’s how If you are a new visitor – welcome to Making Sense…
Hey,
I’ve just been featured on CNBC and I want to say hello to all of my new readers.
You can read the CNBC article here – I made $40,000 a month from 3 income streams during a 4-month cruise around the world—here’s how
If you are a new visitor – welcome to Making Sense of Cents!
I have received many emails about how I was able to afford this trip. I have a free How To Start A Blog course that you can sign up for here. I also talk about this below and how I’ve been able to earn over $5,000,000 blogging over the years.
If you want to read more about my world cruise trip, I recommend reading Around-The-World Cruise With A Kid (25+ Countries In 4 Months!).
Here are some blog posts that you may find helpful and enjoy:
If you have any questions, please leave a comment below or send me an email.
Thanks for stopping by.
-Michelle Schroeder-Gardner
—-
In addition to reading the CNBC article linked above, I also want to talk about how I grew a blog that has earned me over $5,000,000. I know I will get a lot of questions, so I figured it’s best to lay it all out right here 🙂
What started as just a hobby turned into one of the most life-changing things I’ve ever done – that’s starting my blog, and learning how to make money with it.
Since learning how to monetize a blog over 10 years ago, I have now earned over $5,000,000 from my site. This is still hard for me to believe, and I’m the one who’s lived it!
In the beginning, all I was doing was tracking my own personal finance progress as I finished school and started paying off my student loans. Blogging was a very new concept to me at the time – I heard about it from a magazine – and people were just learning how to monetize blogs back in 2011.
Most bloggers started back then with display ads and sponsored posts, but the options have only increased.
Because of all of the new ways to make money blogging, like affiliate income and selling your own products, you can make somewhat passive income as a blogger.
Passive income is my favorite way to make money because it makes blogging even more flexible and something I can do as I work from home, travel, and work whenever I want.
Blogging has changed my life for the better, and I’m now earning thousands of dollars a month doing something I love.
Learning how to monetize a blog takes work and time, but it’s 100% possible to do. I started earning money after just six months of blogging, and I didn’t even set out to make money when I created Making Sense of Cents. Just think of the potential if you start out knowing that making money blogging is possible!
Starting my blog is one of the best things I’ve ever done for my work, personal, and financial life. And, I urge anyone who is interested to start a blog and learn how to monetize it.
How I earned my first income from blogging
Many of my readers have heard this story, but I love sharing it because I started out like many of you, except I had no idea that blogs could make money. When I started Making Sense in August of 2011, I simply wanted a way to keep track of my financial progress and meet others who had similar goals.
As I started getting to know other bloggers in the community, a blogger friend of mine connected me with an advertiser who was willing to pay me $100 for an advertisement.
I couldn’t believe someone would pay me $100 to advertise on my site!
While it wasn’t a lot of money, especially considering the amount of time and work I put towards my blog in those 6 months, it was very motivating to see that something I loved doing could actually make money.
After that first $100, I started doing a lot of research on how to monetize a blog, and my blogging income quickly grew from there.
One year after I started my blog, I was earning around $1,000 a month, and I was making around $10,000 monthly two years after I started Making Sense of Cents.
My income only continued to grow, and I am still earning a healthy income from this website today.
How To Start A Blog FREE Course
If you want to learn how to monetize a blog and you haven’t started your blog, then I recommend starting with my free blogging course How To Start A Blog FREE Course.
Here’s a quick outline of what you will learn in this free course:
Day 1: Reasons you should start a blog
Day 2: How to determine what to blog about
Day 3: How to create your blog – in this lesson, you will learn how to start a blog on WordPress, and my tutorial makes it very easy to start a blog
Day 4: How to monetize a blog – this is where you learn about the many different ways to make money blogging!
Day 5: My tips for earning passive income from your blog
Day 6: How to grow your traffic and followers
Day 7: Miscellaneous blogging tips that will help you be successful
This is delivered directly to your email inbox, and you will learn how to grow a blog from scratch.
Start with a plan for your blog
Sure, you can start on a whim, and that’s kind of what I did, haha.
But, I do think that creating a plan is a good idea if you want to learn how to monetize a blog. This can help you get an organized start, identify your blog’s niche, decide on your blogging goals, find opportunities for blogging income, and more.
It wasn’t until 2015 that I finally created a blogging plan (that’s 4 years after I started!), and my blog income grew significantly after that.
I credit that growth to creating a plan!
Having a plan would have been a huge help in the beginning, and I wish I would have started with one. I probably missed some income opportunities because I had no real plan or direction in the first couple of years.
Since creating a blogging plan, I became more focused on goals and motivated toward improving and building Making Sense of Cents.
Here are some questions that you may want to ask yourself when creating a plan for your blog:
What will you write about on your blog?
How do you want to make money with your blog?
What will you do to reach readers on your blog?
What are your goals for your blog?
Thinking about, researching, and answering these questions will help guide you on your journey and help you decide what to do next.
Write high-quality and engaging blog posts
Your blog’s content is extremely important. This will be what attracts your readers, has them coming back for more, earns you blogging income, and more.
Now, you don’t need to be an expert or need a degree to start talking about a subject, but you do need to be knowledgeable or interested in what you are talking about. And, always be truthful! This will show in your writing and actually help your readers.
To write high-quality content on your blog, here are some tips:
Figure out exactly what it is that you’d like to write about and why you think the content is important. Being passionate about a subject will give you the motivation to write content that people want to read. Just think about it: If you don’t enjoy writing your content, then why should you expect someone else to want to read it?
Ask your audience what they want you to write about. Many of my best ideas come from expanding on reader questions.
Research your blog topics by reading news articles, going to a library, searching for statistics and interesting facts, and more.
If your blog posts are more personal in nature, then dig deep and share your thoughts, and be personable in your writing – your readers want to hear your story!
Write long, helpful content. Sure, some great content may only be a few hundred words, but to be as helpful as possible, long content is usually the best. My content is usually over 2,000 words, and this article is around 5,000. Now, you don’t want to just write a lot of fluff content in order to get more words in – you want to actually be helpful!
Reread your content. I used to read my content 10 times or more before I would publish it. Now, I have an editor who makes sure I’m always publishing high-quality content.
Network, network, network
If you want to learn how to monetize a blog, then networking can be extremely helpful.
Networking can mean:
Making friends with other bloggers
Attending blogging conferences
Sharing content that other bloggers have written
Following other bloggers in your niche on social media
Signing up for other bloggers’ newsletters
Joining blogging groups on Facebook
Some bloggers don’t do any of these things and purely see other bloggers as competition. I don’t believe this is the correct way to approach blogging because you will hold yourself back immensely!
Networking is important because it can help you enjoy blogging (friends are nice to have, right?!), teach you new ideas (such as how to make money blogging or how to grow a blog), make valuable connections, and more.
Keep in mind that networking is even how I earned my very first $100 blogging. My blogging friend connected me with an advertiser, which helped changed my blogging journey.
I have learned a lot about blogging from the blogging community, and the people I’ve connected with have been a tremendous support as I’ve grown my blog.
Be prepared to put in a lot of hard work
Starting a blog is relatively easy. But, growing and learning how to monetize a blog takes a lot of work.
You’ll have to:
Start a blog, design it, create social media accounts, and more
Write high-quality blog posts
Attract an audience of readers
Monetize your blog
Continue learning about blogging
And more
Even when I was just a new blogger and had no plans of making money blogging, I was still spending well over 10 hours a week on Making Sense of Cents.
When I was working my full-time day job and earning an income from my blog, I was working around 40-50 hours a week on my blog on top of my day job!
Now that I blog full-time, my hours vary. Some months I hardly work, and there are other months that I may work 100 hours a week.
It’s not easy, and there’s always something that needs to be done.
But, I absolutely love blogging, which makes the hard work a little less tough.
How to monetize a blog: 4 different ways
There are many different ways you can monetize your blog, including:
Affiliate marketing
Advertisements and sponsorships
Display advertising
Create your own product, such as an ebook, course, physical or online products, and more
You could choose to monetize your blog using all of these methods, or even just one. It’s just a personal decision.
For me, I like to be diversified and monetize in many ways, so I do them all.
Below, I am going to dive a little deeper into each way to make money blogging.
1. Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing can be a great way to make money blogging because if there is a product or company that you enjoy, all you have to do is review the product and share a unique affiliate link where your readers can sign up or make a purchase.
In fact, this is my favorite way to monetize a blog. I enjoy it because it can be quite passive – I can create just one blog post and potentially earn an income from it years later. This is because even though a blog post may be older, I am still constantly driving traffic to it and readers are still purchasing through my affiliate links.
Affiliate marketing is a blog monetization method where you share a link to a product or company with your readers in an attempt to make an income from followers purchasing the product through your link.
Here are some quick tips so that you can make affiliate income on your blog:
Use the Pretty Link plugin tocleanupmessy-lookingaffiliatelinks. I use this for nearly all of my affiliate links because something like “makingsenseofcents.com/bluehost” looks much better than the long, crazy-looking links that affiliate programs usually give you.
Provide real reviews. You should always be honest with your reviews. If there is something you don’t like about a product, either don’t review the product at all or mention the negatives in your review.
Ask for a commission increase. If you are doing well with a particular affiliate program, ask to increase your commissions.
Build a relationship with your affiliate manager. Your affiliate manager can supply your readers with valuable coupons, commission increases, bonuses, and more.
Write tutorials. Readers want to know how they can use a product. Showing them how to use it, how it can benefit them, and more are all very helpful.
Don’t go overboard. There is no need to include an affiliate link 1,000 times in a blog post. Include them at the beginning, middle, and end, and readers will notice it. Perhaps bold it or find another way for it to stand out as well.
You can learn more about affiliate marketing strategies in my course Making Sense of Affiliate Marketing.
2. Advertisements and sponsorships
Advertising on a blog is one of the first ways that bloggers learn how to monetize a blog. In fact, it’s exactly how I started!
This form of blogging income is when you directly partner with a company and advertise for them on your website or social media accounts.
You may be writing a review for them, a tutorial, talking about their product or company, taking pictures, and so on.
If you want to learn how to increase your advertising-income, I recommend taking my Making Sense of Sponsored Posts course.
3. Display advertising
Display advertising is one of the easiest ways to make money blogging, but it most likely won’t earn you the most, especially in the beginning.
I’m sure you’ve seen display ads before. They may be on the sidebar, at the top of a post, within a blog post, and so on.
The ads are automatically added when you join an advertising network, and you do not need to manually add these ads to your blog.
Your display advertising income increases or decreases almost entirely based on your page views, and once you place the advertisement, there’s no direct work to be done.
If you want to learn how to monetize a blog through display advertising, then some popular networks include Adsense, MediaVine, and AdThrive.
Personally, I use AdThrive for my display advertising network. I don’t have many display advertisements on my blog, but it is easy income.
4. Sell your own products
Another popular way to monetize a blog is to create a sell your own products.
This could be an online product, something that you ship, and so on, such as:
An online course
A coaching program
An eBook
Printables
Memberships
Clothing, candles, artwork, hard copy books, and anything else you can think of
And the list goes on and on. I have seen bloggers be very successful in selling all kinds of things on their blogs.
What’s great about selling your own product is that you are in complete control of what you are selling, and your income is virtually unlimited in many cases.
I launched my first product about 5 years after I created Making Sense of Cents, which was a blogging course called Making Sense of Affiliate Marketing. I regret not creating something sooner because this has been an excellent source of income and has helped many people along the way.
Have an email list
If you really want to learn how to monetize a blog, I recommend that you start an email list from the very beginning.
I waited several years to start my email list, and that was a huge mistake!
Here’s why you need an email list right away:
Your newsletter is YOURS. Unlike social media sites, your newsletter and email subscribers are all yours, and you have their undivided attention. You don’t have to worry about algorithms not displaying your content to readers, and this is because they are your email subscribers. You aren’t fighting with anyone else to have them see your content.
The money is in your email list. I believe that email newsletters are the best way to promote an affiliate product. Your email subscribers signed up to hear what YOU have to write about, so you clearly have their full attention. Your email list, over any other promotional strategy, will almost always lead to more income and sales.
Your email subscribers are loyal to you. If someone is allowing you to show up in their inbox whenever you want, then they probably trust what you have to say and enjoy listening to you. This is a great way to grow an audience and a loyal one at that.
Email is a great way to deliver other forms of content. With Convertkit, I am able to easily create free email courses that are automatically sent to my subscribers. Once a reader signs up, Convertkit sends out all the information they need in whatever time frame I choose to deliver the content.
Attract readers
As a new blogger, you’ll want to find ways to attract a readership to your blog and your article.
No, you don’t need millions and millions of page views to earn a good living from blogging. In fact, I know some bloggers who receive 1,000,000 page views yet make less money than those with 100,000 monthly page views.
Every website is different, but once you learn what your audience wants, you can start to really make money blogging, regardless of how many page views you receive.
Having a successful blog is all about having a loyal audience and helping them with your content.
Even with all of that being said, if you want to learn how to monetize a blog, learning how to improve your traffic is valuable. The more loyal and engaged followers you have, the more money you may be able to make through your blog.
There are many ways to grow your readership, such as:
Write high-quality articles. Your blog posts should always be high-quality and helpful, and it means readers will want to come back for more.
Find social media sites to be active on. There are many social media platforms you can be active on, such as Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, Youtube, and others.
Regularly share new posts. For most blogs, you should publish content at least once a week. Readers may forget about you if you go for weeks or months at a time without a blog post.
Guest post. Guest posting is a great way to reach a new audience, as it can bring new readers to your blog who will potentially subscribe to it.
Make sure it’s easy to share your content. I love sharing posts on social media. However, it gets frustrating when some blogs make it more difficult than it needs to be. You should always make sure it’s easy for readers to share your content, which means your social media icons should be easy to find, all of the info input and ready for sharing (title, link, and your username tagged), and so on. Also, you should make sure that when someone clicks on one of your sharing icons the title isn’t in CAPS (I’ve seen this too many times!).
Write better titles. The title of your post can either bring readers to you or deter them from clicking over. A great free tool to write better headlines is CoSchedule’s Headline tool.
Apply SEO strategies. SEO (search engine optimization) is not something I can teach in this small section, but I go over it below in another section.
Have a clean and user-friendly blog design. If you want more page views, you should make it as easy as possible for readers to navigate your blog. It should be easy for readers to find your blog homepage, search bar, blog posts, and so on.
Now, I also want to talk about helpful resources, courses, and more that can help you to learn how to grow your page views on your blog.
Below are some of my favorite blogging resources to help you improve your traffic:
Grow through SEO
SEO (search engine optimization) is how you get organic search traffic to your blog.
When you search a phrase on Google, you’ll see a bunch of different websites as the results. This is the result of these websites applying SEO strategies to their blog.
This is a great way for readers to find your blog, and SEO is important to pay attention to as you learn how to monetize a blog!
Below are some of my favorite SEO resources:
Stupid Simple SEO: This is my favorite overall SEO course, and one of the most popular for bloggers. I highly recommend taking it. I have gone through the whole course, and I constantly refer back to it.
Easy On-Page SEO: This is an easy-to-follow approach to learning on-page SEO so your articles can rank on Google. I have read this ebook twice, and it is super helpful.
Easy Backlinks for SEO: This ebook will show you 31 different ways to build backlinks, which are needed for SEO.
How To Get 50,000 Pageviews per Month With Keyword Research: This ebook shares the steps for keyword research so that you can get SEO traffic to your website.
Common questions about how to monetize a blog
Below, I’m going to answer some questions I’ve received about how to start a blog such as:
How many views do you need to monetize a blog?
How do beginner bloggers make money?
Why do bloggers fail?
How many posts should I have before I launch my blog?
How many times a week should I post on my blog?
How many views do you need to monetize a blog?
The amount of page views needed to make money blogging varies, and there is no magic number that you should be aiming for.
This is because it depends on so many factors, such as how you will monetize your blog, your niche, the number of email subscribers you have, the quality of your website, and more.
You may see success with 10,000 page views a month, or you may see success with over 100,000 page views a month. It simply depends on the factors above.
How do beginner bloggers make money?
Beginner bloggers can make money in many different ways, such as display advertising, affiliate marketing, creating their own products, and sponsorships.
You can start any of these right from the very beginning.
Display advertising is usually the easiest way to begin monetizing a blog, but the payoff is not very high, especially in the beginning when your page views are not high.
How many posts should I have before I launch my blog?
I recommend just launching your blog as soon as you have one blog post and a design. Building a huge backlog of blog posts isn’t usually needed, and it can prevent you from ever getting started!
How many times a week should I post on my blog?
The more blog posts you have, then the more traffic you may get. That’s because it’s more opportunities to show up in Google searches or share your posts on social media.
I recommend publishing a new blog post at least once a week. Anything less isn’t advised.
Publishing blog posts consistently is smart because readers know to expect regular content from you.
Why do bloggers fail?
Bloggers fail for many different reasons. These reasons may include:
Giving up too soon. It takes time to make money blogging, and sadly, many people give up just a few months into starting a blog.
Not publishing consistently. I recommend publishing content at least once a week, as described in the previous section. Some new bloggers may go months without publishing, and this will take them much longer to make money blogging as they are simply not dedicating enough time to their blog.
Not spending enough time learning about blogging. Blogging is not as easy as you may think. There is a lot to learn in order to make it work. You may need to learn about how to grow your blog’s traffic, how to monetize a blog, how to write high-quality content, and more.
Not having your own domain and self-hosting. If you want to make money blogging, I highly recommend owning your domain name and being self-hosted. The longer you put this easy step off, the longer it will most likely take for you to make money blogging. You can learn more at How To Start a WordPress Blog.
And much more. Blogging is like any business – there are things to learn, things to improve on, and more.
How do I start a blog?
If you have any other questions related to starting a blog, I recommend checking out What Is A Blog, How Do Blogs Make Money, & More. In this article, I answer more questions related to blogging such as:
How do I come up with a blog name?
What blogs make the most money?
How do you design a blog?
How many views do you need to make money blogging?
How many blog posts should I have before launching?
Getting the most money possible when selling your car isn’t as difficult as it once was. The internet allows you to reach a wider audience and increase your odds of finding a buyer willing to pay more — whether selling to an individual, online-only auto retailer or traditional dealership.
When choosing where to sell your car, the decision comes down to whether your top priority is convenience and speed or getting the highest sales price. If your main objective is getting the most money, expect to spend a little more time in your endeavor.
Here are steps to help you get the most money for your car, from prepping for the sale to selecting the best sales platform.
Preparing to sell your car
Before presenting your car for sale, there are some preliminary steps to take. These can vary depending on where and how you intend to sell it.
Know your car’s fair market value
Regardless of where you sell your car, research what dollar amount you can realistically expect to receive. Online valuation sites like Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book show average prices paid to buy a vehicle like yours from individual sellers or dealerships in your area. Providing your vehicle identification number (VIN) or license plate number, as opposed to just entering the make and model, will give you a more accurate value.
Have a price range that you’ll accept in mind. That way you can be prepared to set your asking price at the high end if you create your own listing. And, you’ll know a realistic bottom line if a potential buyer wants to negotiate or a dealership makes you an offer.
Invest time to present your car in its best light
Clean your car inside and out, and have this done professionally if possible to remove any odors or stains. You may also want to clean the engine bay and make any minor repairs, such as restoring cloudy headlights. Your car’s appearance can be very important in convincing a potential buyer (or dealer) that the vehicle is well-maintained and worth more.
Also, gather maintenance records as proof that your car has been taken care of and is less likely to have mechanical problems.
Create a detailed description of your car
This step is needed only if you plan to list your car on sites that sell to private parties. Write a description that shows and tells potential buyers why your car is worth the price you’re asking. Take quality photos from all angles, and write a description highlighting selling points like low mileage, upgrades or any remaining transferable warranty.
Choosing where to sell your car
A lot has changed since the days of selling your car by putting a “for sale” sign in its window, a flyer in the supermarket or a classified ad in the local newspaper. While those are still options, you have a wide range of other possibilities available, too.
Here we focus on the three main avenues for selling a car — selling to an individual, to an online-only retailer or to a traditional dealership. Some websites enable you to use more than one approach, for example getting both private party and dealer offers for your car.
We’ll start with the option that typically results in car sellers receiving the highest prices.
Sell your car to an individual or private party
Selling your car to an individual, also called a private-party sale, is typically where you can get the most money. However, it can also be more time-consuming and come with added risk.
You can use traditional ways of letting people know your car is available, like word of mouth. But you can reach a bigger audience by listing your car on online private sales sites — like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Autotrader or eBay Motors.
While you can make the most selling your car privately, that amount could be reduced slightly by certain expenses. Some private sale sites let you list a car for free while others charge a fee, so consider what you’ll be paying. For example, Autotrader charges $49 for a listing, but this fee also includes a Kelley Blue Book listing and a free vehicle history report for possible buyers. Remember to take into account whether you could have travel or transport expenses to get your car to someone who doesn’t live near you.
Also, be wary of scams when selling your car to an individual, which could be the difference between receiving the most money for your car or not receiving payment at all. Scammers can fake just about every form of payment — including cash, cashier’s checks and certified checks. If your buyer is local, you could meet at that person’s bank to ensure the cash or check is legitimate.
If the buyer isn’t local, using an escrow company — a third party that holds your car title until payment is confirmed — is a good option. But beware that escrow companies can be fake, too. To avoid escrow fraud, don’t use a company suggested by the buyer. Take time to identify a legitimate escrow service, such as a local bank or attorney, or a well-known online service. AutoTrader offers escrow services when you sell through its site, but expect to pay the greater of $49 or 0.99% of the car’s selling price.
Sell to an online used car retailer
Selling your car directly to an online-only car retailer, like CarMax, Carvana or NerdWallet’s own Automotive Marketplace, provides a middle ground. The nonnegotiable offer you receive is likely to be less than what you could get from an individual buyer. However, it’s typically quite a bit more than you would get from a traditional dealership.
Online auto retailers provide an easy way to submit your vehicle information online, receive an immediate offer and in some cases even have your car picked up. At pick-up, you’ll most likely have a check handed to you, or you may receive payment into your bank account via direct deposit or wire transfer. You won’t have to worry about scammers or a possibly drawn-out process of fielding inquiries from strangers.
Online retailers do have vehicle requirements. For example, Carvana only buys cars that are model year 1992 or newer, have a working odometer and are safe to drive. However, if your vehicle doesn’t meet such requirements, you may have options to sell to companies like Peddle and NerdWallet Automotive Marketplace that accept older and damaged vehicles.
Sell to a traditional car dealership
Selling your car to a nearby used car lot may be convenient, but it’s usually where you’ll get the least amount of money. Brick-and-mortar dealerships have overhead business expenses that individuals and online retailers don’t, so dealer offers are commonly the least competitive.
Occasionally a dealer might beat other offers, especially if you’re selling an in-demand car that the dealer needs in inventory, but that isn’t the norm. And, it’s up to you to provide other, higher offers for the dealer to beat.
One way to do this is to get offers from online-only retailers, then ask the traditional dealership if it can do better. Another option is to get and compare offers from many dealers through companies like Cars.com, CarGurus and TrueCar, where you can request bids from local dealers or a network of dealerships.
🤓Nerdy Tip
If you’re buying a car from a dealer and trading in your old one, expect the trade-in value to be less than what you could get selling the car yourself. But you may pay less in taxes, since most states charge sales tax on the difference between the trade-in value and new-car price.
Getting more offers can mean more money
Whether you decide to sell your car privately, through an online retailer or at a local dealership — or in some combination of the three — it’s a good idea to cast a wide net. Unless you’re paying to list on a private sale site, it won’t cost you anything to seek offers from multiple sources.
For example, offers from sites like CarMax and Carvana can vary by thousands of dollars, and one doesn’t consistently pay more than the other. So why not get offers from both, along with several other sites? It’s a small investment of time to find the highest offer and make the most possible when selling your car.
Clothing is an often overlooked expense when planning a budget, but pretty much everyone has to spend some money on clothes for work, off hours, and social occasions. Whether you are a trial attorney who needs a wardrobe full of quality suits or a landscaper who gets good and muddy, there are ways to buy clothing without spending a fortune.
Here, learn what factors go into retail pricing, where to buy quality clothes, and how to snag some bargains.
Understand What Goes Into Retail Pricing
Fashion brands establish pricing on a cost-per-unit basis. The final retail price is set by factoring in various expenses and business strategies, such as manufacturing and material costs and marketing and branding expenses.
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Manufacturing Costs
The cost of raw materials, labor, packaging, and shipping are obvious factors that determine the price of clothing. But pricing is more nuanced than that. Popular brands or high-end brand names will set higher prices for their products on the assumption that they offer higher quality and better designs. There are also marketing costs to consider.
Brand Reputation
Whether a brand is perceived as a luxury brand, like Versace, or a value brand, like those sold at big box stores, will play a large part in pricing. For example, LuluLemon is a popular, in-demand brand that can price its clothing at the higher end of the scale. Sometimes a popular in-demand brand will have to slash its prices because it no longer holds the prestige it once did.
Supply and Demand
Supply and demand is a huge factor affecting the final price of a product. If a style, product, or brand is in demand, retailers can mark up the prices substantially. The fact that there is not enough to go around means people will likely pay more. (Inflation can be part of this equation, too.)
However, if the supply exceeds demand, retailers will have to drop the price to try to encourage sales so they are not left with inventory they cannot sell.
The Distribution Chain
Another factor in the price of clothing is the distribution chain. Some brands manufacture their own clothing and sell exclusively through their own retail outlets, which can help them keep the price lower. Warby Parker is an example of a retail brand that sells exclusively through their own retail outlets and website.
This business model means fewer add-on costs for the consumer. However, most brands sell through selected independent retailers who add on their own margin. Retailers set the final price by implementing their own desired markups, as well as any subsequent promotions and discounts to ensure they aren’t left with inventory. 💡 Quick Tip: Online tools make tracking your spending a breeze: You can easily set up budgets, then get instant updates on your progress, spot upcoming bills, analyze your spending habits, and more.
Seasonality
Some fashions are in demand for a season only and can be priced high until they lose their popularity. At that point, the price will drop or clothes are sold in a clearance sale as retailers try to get rid of old inventory.
You can save money by buying clothes in the off-season or when they are sold on clearance. There are also other ways to make sure you’re not blowing all of your budget on clothes.
Make Use of Coupons
Coupons are a sales strategy for retailers, but they also benefit the consumer. Consumers can shop online for less using coupons and other sales discounts. The buyer inputs a coupon code when they check out, and that code initiates a discount on the price.
Coupons can be found on many websites such as Saving Says, RetailMeNot, and SlickDeals. Also, many brands offer a discount if you sign up for their email list.
Buy Clothing from Consignment Stores and Thrift Shops
Buying second-hand clothes is one way to find quality clothes while sticking to a budget. Thrift shops and websites that sell pre-owned clothing are growing in popularity, particularly because of consumer interest in sustainable practices and brands that support the environment.
ThredUp is a popular online consignment and thrift store where consumers can buy and sell high-quality secondhand clothes. Other ideas for where to buy good quality clothes for less include ASOS Marketplace, Buffalo Exchange, Depop, Etsy, Poshmark, and Vinted.
Recommended: Guide to Selling Used Items
Buy During the Off-Season
Avoid buying on impulse by purchasing clothing in the off-season when you can find quality items on sale. Retailers want to get rid of stock when products are not in season. For example, few people are looking to buy ski gear in the height of spring or summer. Because there may be more supply than demand for ski gear at that time, retailers will reduce the price and sell the clothing at a discount. 💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.
Look for Clearance Sales
Fashion trends typically last one season, and then new styles and products appear on the market. Retailers may find themselves with too much inventory going into a new season. To sell the inventory and not lose too much money, they will sell items in clearance sales, often with slashed prices.
Also, certain retailers are known for having regular sales cycles, such as the Gap and Old Navy. These can be good resources for where to buy good quality clothes on sale.
Consider Alternative Fabrics and Materials
Why does one t-shirt cost $50 and another $15? It could be because the $50 t-shirt has better quality fabric. Similarly, a pair of boots made of leather will be more expensive than a pair made of synthetic leather. In some cases, you might pay more for an item of clothing made of more durable or breathable materials. Investment pieces may be made of finer materials and crafted with more care to last longer.
However, if an item is serving a short-term fashion need, the quality of materials may be less important.
Also, less pricey synthetic materials may get a bad rap. For example, faux leather may be considered an unsuitable material for a shoe because it is unbreathable and less durable. Polyester is often compared to silk and is lambasted for not being “natural.” However, faux leather footwear may appeal to vegans, and polyester blouses last a lot longer than their silk counterparts. So, don’t discount alternatives.
Recommended: High-Paying Vocational Trade Jobs
See Before You Buy
If you do opt for the less expensive option, you might want to see the item before you buy it. If the item is too cheap and flimsy, it won’t last long. Check the seams and the hems to see if the stitching is acceptable, and check that the zip works. Buying a reasonably priced item of clothing is one thing, but there is such a thing as too cheap.”
Buy Less, Buy Better
Buying fewer clothes will save you money, so you might think about items to save up for, perhaps one or two quality pieces that will last the test of time. You can pair those quality and timeless pieces with other less expensive items. For example, a couple of quality suits for work can be paired with a number of blouses or shirts that come from a mid-range retailer. You can also build a wardrobe based on a basic color, like black or blue, so that all of your clothes can be mixed and matched.
Note: Also remember to note care labels when purchasing clothes. Those that say “Dry clean only” mean they will cost you more over their life in cleaning than those that can go in the washer or be hand-laundered at home.
Recommended Brands
Some mid-price quality fashion brands recommended by experts are COS, Everlane, H&M, Land’s End, LL Bean, and Uniqlo.
The Takeaway
Dressing well does not have to be a wallet-busting affair if you know where to buy quality clothes and which strategies to follow. In some cases, it is better to pay more for an item that will be durable and serve its purpose rather than to buy something cheap and experience frustration when it doesn’t wear well. However, even then, you can find discounts by using coupons, searching for clearance sales, buying second hand, or buying off season.
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FAQ
Where to buy cheap good quality clothes?
Consignment stores and thrift stores are good places to buy good quality clothes for cheap. If you want to buy new, popular mid-range fashion brands are COS, Everlane, H&M, Land’s End, LL Bean, and Uniqlo.
How do I not spend all my money on clothes?
Avoid spending too much money on clothes by setting a budget and sticking to it. Also, don’t buy on impulse and focus on buying a few classic, high-quality pieces to match with less expensive tops and accessories. Build your wardrobe around a color so that you can mix and match and get more wear out of your clothes.
How can I be fashionable on a low budget?
The trick to being fashionable on a low budget is to choose a few quality items that you can pair with inexpensive, trendier items.
Photo credit: iStock/pixelfit
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Have you been wondering, “Should I move to Baltimore, MD?” Located along the Chesapeake Bay, Baltimore offers a blend of historic charm and urban experiences. Yet, like any city, it comes with its share of complexities. In this article, we’ll dive into the pros and cons to consider before making the move to Baltimore, helping you weigh its unique offerings against potential challenges to make an informed decision about your future home. Let’s get started.
Baltimore at a Glance
Walk Score: 64 | Bike Score: 53 | Transit Score: 53
Median Sale Price: $200,000 | Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,400
Baltimore neighborhoods | Houses for rent in Baltimore | Apartments for rent in Baltimore | Homes for sale in Baltimore
Pro: Great historical significance
From the cobblestone streets of Fells Point to the historic ships in the Inner Harbor, Baltimore offers a unique glimpse into America’s past. For example, the city is home to the Fort McHenry National Monument. This monument is renowned for its role in the War of 1812 and was the inspiration for the writing of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Additionally, the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Museum preserves the legacy of America’s first common-carrier railroad. The museum showcases historic locomotives, rolling stock, and artifacts that tell the story of railroading in America. Whether exploring historic neighborhoods or visiting museums and monuments, you’re sure to find a historical treasure in this city.
Con: Concerns over infrastructure
Baltimore faces challenges with aging infrastructure, from roads and bridges to public buildings and utilities. This can lead to frequent disruptions in services and necessitates ongoing maintenance and upgrades. The impact on daily life, including potential delays and increased commuting times, is a significant concern for some residents.
Pro: Dynamic arts and culture scene
The city is a haven for art lovers and culture enthusiasts. The Baltimore Museum of Art and the American Visionary Art Museum showcase vast collections that celebrate both classical and contemporary art. Annual events like Artscape, the country’s largest free arts festival, highlight the city’s commitment to the arts. This vibrant cultural scene fosters a strong sense of community and provides endless entertainment and inspiration.
Con: High property taxes
One of the financial challenges of living in Baltimore is the high property tax rate, which is among the highest in Maryland. This can significantly increase the cost of homeownership, affecting affordability for residents. The high taxes can also deter potential homebuyers and investors which could impact the city’s housing market and overall economic growth.
Pro: Exceptional educational institutions
Baltimore is home to world-renowned institutions such as Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore. These institutions not only contribute to the city’s prestige but also attract a diverse population of people from around the globe. The presence of these educational giants fosters a vibrant intellectual community and drives innovation in various fields, including health and science.
Con: Limited green spaces
Compared to other cities, Baltimore struggles with providing ample green spaces for its residents. While there are notable exceptions like Patterson Park and Druid Hill Park, the city’s urban planning has not prioritized green areas. This scarcity affects people’s ability to easily access outdoor recreational activities and contributes to the urban heat island effect, making the city warmer during the hot summer months.
Pro: Foodie’s paradise
Baltimore’s culinary scene is a delightful exploration of flavors, with an emphasis on seafood that reflects its Chesapeake Bay location. The city’s signature dish, Maryland blue crabs seasoned with Old Bay, is a must-try. Neighborhoods like Little Italy and the emerging culinary hotspot in Hampden offer diverse dining experiences.
Con: Occasional flooding issues
Parts of Baltimore, especially those close to the water, are prone to flooding. Heavy rains can overwhelm the city’s drainage system, leading to waterlogged streets and basements. This issue not only causes immediate inconvenience but also raises concerns about long-term property damage and the costs associated with flood mitigation and insurance. It’s a significant consideration for anyone looking to live or invest in certain areas of the city.
Baltimore is known for its strong sense of community and active engagement in social and environmental issues. Neighborhood associations, community groups, and activists work tirelessly to address challenges and improve the city for all its residents. One example of this is the annual “Mayor’s Spring Cleanup,” where locals come together to clean up litter and spruce up their neighborhoods. The strong community spirit in Baltimore not only enhances the quality of life for everyone, but also contributes to the city’s resilience and sense of collective identity.
Con: Varied housing market
While Baltimore offers a diverse range of housing options, from historic row houses to modern apartments, navigating the market can be daunting. The disparity in housing quality and prices across different neighborhoods can make finding the right home challenging. This variance requires thorough research and consideration, especially for those unfamiliar with the city’s geography and real estate landscape.
Pro: Thriving nightlife and entertainment
The city’s nightlife and entertainment scene is vibrant and diverse, catering to a wide range of tastes. From live music venues in the arts district to bustling bars and clubs in the Inner Harbor, there’s always something happening after dark. This thriving nightlife enhances the city’s cultural appeal and contributes to the local economy, making Baltimore a lively place to live and visit.
Jenna is a Midwest native who enjoys writing about home improvement projects and local insights. When she’s not working, you can find her cooking, crocheting, or backpacking with her fiancé.