For those who feel liberated by small apartment living but are having trouble strategically organizing in a way that makes your place feel tidy, this article is for you. Whether you just leased a Seattle apartment or are looking at apartments for rent in Naples, Florida, expert organizers offer their best insights to help you keep your belongings in order and readily accessible.
While the task may initially feel tricky, Barbara Metzel with Professional Organizing Plus says a small apartment requires “creativity and smart organization” influenced by a “minimalist approach.” Now, let’s get started.
1. Begin by decluttering
Initiate your organization journey by decluttering. Streamline possessions and keep only what is essential. This foundational step sets the stage for an efficient and visually pleasing living environment.
Founder of Selma Organizer, Mariselma Goncalves, shares how “a great way to achieve serenity, especially in a small apartment where every inch counts, is by organizing and decluttering.”
The act of decluttering, however, isn’t done once and then forgotten about until the stacks pile up. In her blog, Tacoma, Washington’s professional organizer and owner of Clear Spaces Organizing Co., Ashley Nariman, shares how “the most valuable thing you can do is to develop a regular habit of decluttering.” She recommends “adding a purge session to your calendar every 4-6 months to keep clutter in check.”
By decluttering and “reducing the number of items in a space,” Aaron Traub, owner and lead organizer of My Professional Organizer Dallas, shares that a space can be “more functional and serene.”
2. Utilize clear containers
Opt for transparent storage solutions to quickly identify contents. Clear containers provide a visual inventory and lend a sleek and uniform appearance to your storage areas, maintaining a sense of order and simplicity.
Professional organizer Bethany Van Dyke shares how clear containers can be utilized in spaces such as kitchens or bathrooms “to house perishable food or bathroom items” that were previously in bulky packaging that took up unnecessary space.
Mary Beth Bartlett and Megan McDowell with Rooms to Breathe recommend “transferring board games and puzzles into zippered mesh pouches and filing in a large open bin” to save space. Additionally, the duo suggests to those with craft stations “unboxing markers, crayons, glue sticks, and other art supplies and putting them into a divided turntable.”
3. Vertical space
Unlock valuable vertical real estate by installing shelves and organizers on walls. Embracing verticality optimizes space utilization, freeing up floor space and allowing a visually striking display of your belongings.
Creative consultant and designer for Organize Create Design, Tracy Broeckel, shares how “floating shelves and pegboard paired with hooks and baskets can free up valuable floor space.” With Half Full Organizing, Stacy Stevens adds that implementing these items can “offer function and double as décor.”
Sarah Kary, certified professional organizer with From Mess to Blessed, shares how command hooks can be versatile in what they are used for. She adds that they are “renter friendly” and great for “hats, jewelry, kitchen utensils, stringing lights, dog leash, and art and décor.”
When organizing vertically, Taylor Miller, founder of Orderly Interiors, recommends investing in “behind-the-door storage shelves to neatly house laundry supplies, tools, bathroom essentials, or pantry items.” Heather Cocozza, organizing and productivity consultant for Cocozza Organizing and Design, recommends renter-friendly products such as Elfa Back of the Door Solution or iDesign Affixx Adhesive Organizer Bin for back-of-door storage.
4. Fold clothes
Master the art of efficient clothing storage by adopting the KonMari folding method. Neatly folded clothes save space, reduce wrinkles, and create an appealing wardrobe. This technique proves particularly beneficial in confined closets.
Certified professional organizer Katie McAllister with Susquehanna Closet and Garage Design shares how “jeans, athletic clothing, sweaters, scrubs, and t-shirts all do very well folded.” She also adds how the ideal spacing between shelves is 8-10 inches. This allows you to “stack a few items without creating your own Leaning Tower of Pisa.”
5. Under-the-bed storage
Transform the underutilized space beneath your bed into a storage powerhouse. Invest in under-bed storage bins or drawers that can be readily accessible but offer an organized space to stow away underused items.
Deena McNichol, owner of One Thing at a Time Professional Organizing, shares how under-bed storage is great for items such as “shoes, linens, or sweaters.”
6. Integrate multifunctional furniture
Select furniture pieces with dual purposes to make the most of limited space. From ottomans with hidden storage to convertible sofa beds, multifunctional furniture adds versatility without sacrificing style, catering to both form and function in your compact abode.
Designer sales representative for Save Our Space, Cory Viereck, recommends that those limited in closet space add wardrobes that can fit their belongings.
Picture this: You wake up in the morning, filled with energy and excitement for the day ahead. But as you open your closet door, instead of being greeted by a neatly organized array of clothing, you’re met with a chaotic jumble of garments piled haphazardly on top of each other. Sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone.
Many of us – from Miami, FL to Seattle, WA and anywhere in between – struggle with closet clutter, but fear not – organizing and simplifying your closet is easier than you think. In this guide, ApartmentGuide explores some expert tips and tricks for maximizing your closet space, streamlining your style, and simplifying your life in the process.
1. Declutter like a pro
The first step in maximizing your closet space is to declutter your space ruthlessly. Set aside some time to go through each item in your wardrobe and ask yourself: Do I love it? Do I wear it? If the answer is no, it’s time to say goodbye. Donate or sell items that no longer serve you, and watch as your closet breathes a sigh of relief.
Brenda Scott, professional home organizer and owner of Tidy My Space, weighs in on this topic. “Start by sorting through your outgoing seasonal items and weed out anything you didn’t wear or use; chances are you won’t next time either. Then, inspect all incoming spring items. Do they still fit well and make you feel confident? If not, consider selling or donating them, as others may be looking for new spring pieces.”
2. Start fresh
According to personal stylist Deni Kiro, spring is the perfect time to revitalize your wardrobe and embrace new trends. “Start by reviewing the latest fashion trends and selecting ones that resonate with your personal style. Decluttering your closet is essential for rediscovering forgotten treasures and making space for new additions.
Consider refreshing old pieces with tailoring to breathe new life into your wardrobe sustainably. As you cleanse your closet, focus on identifying your favorite pieces and exploring fresh styling ideas. Take inspiration from fashion runways to discover innovative ways to combine colors and styles, igniting your creativity for the season ahead.”
3. Invest in smart storage solutions
“I firmly believe that spring presents the ideal opportunity to organize and declutter home wardrobe closets,” asserts Lisa Ann S. Santin, proprietor of LASS Wardrobe. “As we transition between seasons, decluttering our spring and summer closets and adopting a highly organized approach sets the stage for seamlessly integrating seasonal trends while also revitalizing forgotten pieces.”
Once you’ve cleared out the clutter, it’s time to invest in some smart storage solutions to make the most of your closet space. Consider adding shelves, drawers, or cubbies to maximize vertical storage. Utilize hanging organizers for shoes, bags, and accessories, and invest in slimline hangers to save space and keep your clothes wrinkle-free.
4. Get creative with clothing arrangement
Think outside the box when it comes to arranging your clothing. Rather than exclusively hanging garments, try folding bulkier items such as sweaters and jeans to maximize hanging space availability. Employ dividers or bins to categorize various types of clothing, facilitating quick and easy access to your wardrobe essentials. Additionally, make the most of the available space by utilizing the back of the door for supplementary storage options. Consider installing an over-the-door shoe organizer or hooks to optimize storage capacity, especially in compact or limited spaces.
5. Incorporate a seasonal rotation
With spring approaching, now is the perfect time to freshen up and organize your home,” advises Efa, professional organizer and founder of Neat It. “Begin by sorting through your summer wardrobe. If you find items that no longer fit or are worn out, consider parting ways with them. Clearing out unnecessary belongings not only creates space but also contributes to a renewed and orderly living environment, promoting a sense of well-being and anticipation for the season ahead.”
To prevent your closet from becoming overcrowded, consider implementing a seasonal rotation system. Store off-season clothing in bins or under-bed storage containers, and swap them out as the seasons change. Not only will this free up space in your closet, but it will also make getting dressed each morning a breeze.
6. Maximize every inch
Finally, don’t overlook any potential storage opportunities in your closet. Take advantage of high shelves for storing out-of-season items or infrequently used items like luggage or keepsakes. Make use of the floor space for shoe racks or storage bins, and don’t forget to utilize the space above the closet door for additional shelving or hanging space.
“Store your winter garments at the top or towards the back of your closet, or even pack them away if possible,” suggests stylist Suzie Gaffney. “Keep your spring and summer attire visible and within easy reach. Consider arranging your clothing by color to give your wardrobe a fresh perspective and ensure organization by grouping similar types of clothing together within each color category, such as white tanks followed by white short sleeves and then white long sleeves. This color-based system facilitates quick and efficient access to your wardrobe essentials.”
Maximizing your closet space this spring
With these straightforward strategies, you can turn your chaotic closet into a well-ordered space you’ll love. With just a bit of time and creativity, you’ll maximize your closet’s potential and make getting dressed each day a pleasure. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your bins and hangers, and get ready to conquer your closet clutter once and for all.
Our surroundings hold significant sway over our mood and well-being, often shaping our experiences more than we realize. The activities we engage in within these walls mold our emotional state, productivity, and overall perspective. So, if you find yourself feeling low without a clear cause, your home may be to blame.
No matter if you call Des Moines, IA, Boise, ID, or any place in between home, with spring on the horizon, there’s no better time to implement simple yet transformative changes within our living spaces. To help set the stage to boost happiness and cultivate a sense of fulfillment that extends beyond the confines of our homes, here are 20 ways to boost happiness at home this spring.
Uplift your mood with plants and flowers
Incorporating elements of nature indoors is a simple yet rejuvenating method to revitalize your living space and elevate your mood. Beyond enhancing visual charm, this natural infusion instills a feeling of energy, rejuvenation, and joy, fostering a renewed sense of vitality within your home.
1. Refresh your space with blooming branches
Spring is the best season for bringing fresh elements into your home, and according to florist Jill Mason of Portland-based plant shop Starflower Passion, blooming branches are her top recommendation. “I adore seasonal blooming branches like dogwood, forsythia, cherry, and quince, with quince being my favorite. Just five to 10 stems in your favorite vase can transform your space with modern simplicity. These branches last for weeks, offering lasting beauty. For another stunning option, consider tulips. With 10 to 30 stems, they bring drama and changing shapes that captivate.”
2. Breathe life into your home with locally grown flowers
“Contact local flower farmers for 100% locally grown blooms; many offer fantastic subscriptions and CSA programs for a variety of stunning arrangements every week,” suggests Lynsea Coy, owner of Coy & Co., a sustainable florist in Portland, OR. “Avoid using floral foam or flowers treated with harmful chemicals like dyes, paints, bleaches, or preservatives, as they are detrimental to the environment and your health. The best way to keep your space alive is to pay tribute to the land you’re occupying by celebrating those that honor and steward it carefully and sustainably.”
3. Create a lush indoor oasis
“Group a few houseplants together in well-lit spaces of your home to create a lush green vibe,” says Hailey Dekle, owner of plant shop Cactus + Co. on Camano Island, WA. “For darker spaces, consider adding greenery that is tolerant of less light like snake plants, ZZ plants, pothos, and aglaonema varieties. We recommend adding at least one plant that blooms in the spring like an Easter cactus, jasmine, or hoya.”
Dekle goes on to share, “As your plants grow, you’ll be able to take cuttings to propagate and add more greenery throughout your space. Repurpose your empty baskets or containers and then check your local plant shop for planters, baskets, and macrame to style your plants.”
4. Choose a variety of plants to add visual interest
Marian Packer, owner of Packer Plant Company, a plant nursery in Klamath Falls, OR, offers insights for the ideal plant placements to enhance visual appeal within your home.
“Snake plants are extremely low-maintenance and look beautiful sitting in a corner in a basket,” shares Packer. “Pothos are a great choice for the top of a cabinet or shelf where the vines can drape down. A peperomia is a pet-safe plant for higher-traffic areas like side tables or entryways. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different varieties of plants until you find exactly what you like.”
5. Start with beginner-friendly plants
For beginners, experimenting with different plants and learning their care needs gradually builds confidence and expertise in nurturing indoor greenery.
“If you’re new to house plants, varieties like philodendron or pothos are great starters, as they thrive with minimal attention and can enhance any room’s ambiance,” explains Cameron Perrin of Shop Pothos, offering house plants delivered to your door. “Plant stands offer a great way to showcase some natural beauty but we also recommend hanging planters or shelves to add a vertical dimension to your space. Incorporating house plants into your home or office does more than just enhance its aesthetic appeal; it also improves air quality, making your home feel fresher and more inviting.”
Elevate your interior design with a touch of springtime freshness
Infuse your space with vibrant energy and rejuvenation to create a more uplifting and inspiring atmosphere. Incorporating elements like bright colors, floral patterns, and natural accents can evoke feelings of joy and renewal, enhancing your overall sense of happiness and well-being within your home.
6. Opt for pastels of vibrant spring hues
Ria Urs, Principal Lead Designer at Interiors By Ria, a luxury interior design firm in Addison, TX, emphasizes the importance of infusing your home with the freshness of the outdoors as spring approaches.
“A simple yet impactful tip is to incorporate greenery and floral arrangements that bring the vibrancy of spring indoors, instantly uplifting any room’s mood,” says Urs. “Swap out those heavy, dark textiles like changing thick, dark-colored winter drapes to sheer, light curtains that let in more sunlight, replacing heavy wool throw blankets with light cotton or linen options in pastel or vibrant spring hues, and switching out dark, dense area rugs with lighter, brighter, or even floral-patterned rugs to add a fresh pop of color and texture to your living spaces.”
7. Choose thoughtful design choices
Life coach Michele Attias discusses how spring presents an ideal moment for mindful rejuvenation of your living space. “Ask yourself, ‘How can I create more happiness in my home?’ Consider rearranging furniture in one room to embrace a fresh layout, pushing the boundaries of comfort and authenticity.
Attias also recommends delving deeper by asking, “‘What is my goal here, and what do I want to open up to in the spring season?’ Embrace the spirit of renewal by designating a wellness area in your home, adorned with plush cushions, a journal, framed inspirational quotes, and scented candles – your sanctuary to connect, meditate and reflect at the end of a busy day.”
8. Consider your surroundings for your home’s interior
“When refreshing your space, think about what’s going on outside and let that inform what you bring into your spaces,” Says Amanda Arcone, owner and designer at New England Home & Interiors. “For a nature-filled environment, maintain serenity by avoiding busy colors and patterns. In urban areas, opt for contemporary elements like glass, bold colors, and interesting lines and curves. In mountainous regions, complement the landscape with nature-inspired hues, such as blues, browns, and whites. Near water, blues, greens, and soft grays are all wonderful palettes. Pay attention to light direction and color preference, aiming to create a mood that fosters peace and joy in your home.”
9. Focus on soft whites and natural elements to create a serene and airy space
Home staging company Gema Designs recommends the following blend of soft hues and natural textures for a sense of tranquility and freshness in your home, perfectly capturing the essence of spring.
“Paint colors such as ‘White Dove’ by Benjamin Moore for walls can instantly brighten a room, while accents in ‘Black Iron’ by Sherwin Williams add depth and contrast,” says Gema Designs. Adding touches of ‘Cottage Grove’ by Magnolia Paint introduces a subtle, earthy tone, complementing the natural beauty of wood finishes and indoor plants. This blend of soft hues and natural textures brings a sense of tranquility and freshness to your home, perfectly capturing the essence of spring.”
10. Less is more when decorating
Heather Krout, interior stylist and decorator of Home with Heather advocates for the art of un-decorating.
“Falling into the common decorating mistake of overcrowding with numerous small items is easy, especially with beloved bunnies and tiny accessories,” says Krout. “However, the key lies in the art of un-decorating, where simplifying reigns supreme. As spring arrives, it’s the ideal time to clear away extra clutter and begin anew. Start by adding one larger scale item as a focal point, introducing a touch of greenery in a vase, and incorporating just one small accessory decor item.”
11. Bring spring indoors with colors, patterns, and florals
Bringing the essence of spring indoors is effortlessly achieved by infusing your décor with its vibrant colors, lively patterns, and delicate florals.
“I like to update my pillows with seasonal colors and patterns, often opting for nature-inspired hues like blues and greens, occasionally adding floral motifs for extra charm,” shares Cristina Lehman, founder and principal designer of C. Lehman Home. “I also enjoy incorporating fresh flowers or greenery from my backyard or the local grocery store to infuse the house with organic vibrancy and color.”
12. Brighten your home with clean windows and greenery
“Before it’s warm enough to start living an indoor-outdoor lifestyle, bring the spring air and light inside your home by giving your windows, screens, and window coverings a good cleaning,” advises principal and CEO Anne Michaelsen Yahn. “Enhance your indoor space with an indoor garden featuring a diverse selection of houseplants. Opt for at least three containers of varying sizes in coordinating colors, each filled with your favorite greenery selections.”
13. Freshen up with decor and accents
“Revitalize your space by thoroughly cleaning and decluttering, removing any items that are no longer essential. This will immediately create a brighter and more spacious atmosphere,” shares Francine Park, owner and designer at interior design studio in Seattle, WA, Freshen Design.
“Update your beddings, decorative pillow covers, curtains, and lampshades with lighter fabrics and colors to infuse the room with a fresh spring vibe. Consider adding a whimsical and colorful polyester area rug to add personality to the space. Bring the outdoors in by incorporating fresh flowers, and consider swapping out a large artwork for a statement moss wall art to embrace the season’s natural elements. Finally, add small Easter decorative items to further enhance the festive ambiance.”
Create a space made for prioritizing inner peace and happiness
Your home should be the space you can escape to amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. By curating an environment tailored to promote emotional well-being, you invite moments of serenity and contentment into your home.
13. Designate a corner for meditation
“Spring is the perfect time to create or refresh an area in your home dedicated to meditation, a calm down corner (for both grown-ups and kids), or a peaceful respite,” shares stress and anxiety coach Sandra Woznicki. “Even a quiet corner with a few cozy cushions, soft lighting, a small plant, and perhaps some soothing aromatherapy or inspiring artwork can serve as an inviting sanctuary. Cultivating such a space not only makes intentional relaxation more appealing but can also condition your nervous system to relax instinctively upon entering.”
Adding to this perspective, mindfulness coaches Jen and Katie, founders of Awareness of Mind, emphasize the importance of carving out time for meditation. “While many of us aspire to meditate regularly, the busyness of life often gets in the way. By designating a specific area in your home for meditation — whether it’s a corner or a dedicated spot on the sofa — you create a tangible invitation to practice mindfulness daily. Enhance the ambiance with inspirational quotes, calming sounds, and greenery to encourage moments of stillness and connection with your breath.”
15. Embrace the practice of sauca
“Sauca, a fundamental principle in yoga, emphasizes purity, cleanliness, and tidiness in both body and mind,” explains yoga instructor, Christine Chen. “By clearing clutter, eliminating toxins, and shedding bad habits, we pave the way for a healthier, clearer, and more awakened life. This principle extends beyond the self to our living spaces. By purifying our homes through decluttering and thorough cleaning, we create an environment conducive to spiritual practice. Recognizing and addressing habits that contribute to an untidy home can ultimately transform our living spaces to create a dedicated space for spiritual practice – it’s life-changing.”
16. Simplify your space
“Often, our environment is a reflection of the state of our mind so ensuring that we are making time to simplify and create order in our space, we can positively impact our mental health,” states Onnie Michalsky, MA, LCPC Life Coach at Moms Without Capes.
“A cluttered room may contribute to feelings of stress, where we lack a sense of control and put our mind into overdrive. Start small by focusing on a single drawer or filling one small box with items to donate. As you make even the slightest progress, be sure to savor how it feels to let go of that which no longer serves you and know that you are engaging in self-care as you rid yourself of excess stuff, improving your home and your mind.”
17. Create an energy flow for new opportunities
“Clearing clutter from your home initiates a flow of energy, paving the way for new opportunities,” explains Shannon Shine, founder of Shine Time Studios and Wellness. “Take small steps each day to redirect energy to different areas, avoiding the pressure of an overnight transformation. Embrace the gradual renewal of spring by focusing on refreshing one corner at a time, allowing space for relaxation and a stress-free approach. Remember, the process may unfold continuously, symbolizing the evolving journey towards embracing your renewed self.”
Declutter and deep clean for a brighter home
Clearing out clutter and giving your home a deep clean not only creates a brighter, more spacious environment but also lifts your mood and energizes your space.
18. The 3 magic questions to ask yourself
“The first step to revitalizing your wardrobe involves decluttering, which can feel daunting at times,” shares Lili Henry Stylist based in San Francisco, CA. “When assisting clients with wardrobe edits, I introduce three essential questions: Does it fit? If not, it goes. Is it worn out? If yes, it’s out. When was the last time you wore it? If over a year ago, it’s time to bid farewell. By the end of this process, we pinpoint missing pieces to avoid unnecessary purchases and conduct a color analysis to determine their best-suited hues, ensuring they shine in their wardrobe selections.”
21. Start with your entryway
“Begin by refreshing your entryway: replace heavy winter coats with lighter jackets, introduce a colorful doormat, and designate areas for sunglasses and umbrellas,” advises Heather Aiello, founder of The Organized You. “Taking on one zone at a time allows for a smooth and manageable shift, bringing the revitalizing essence of the season into your home.”
19. Conquer the clutter in your closet
“Spring is the perfect time to overhaul your wardrobe but it can be tricky to know where to begin,” acknowledges Jennifer Jones Styling. “Begin by evaluating each item in your wardrobe, assessing how it aligns with your preferences, confidence level, color palette, body shape, and lifestyle. If any pieces fall short of these criteria, consider donating them or selling them to make room for items you truly love. Additionally, take into account the seasonality of each piece; if it’s not suitable for spring and summer, set it aside for future use. This approach ensures that revisiting your wardrobe feels like uncovering a fresh collection when the time is right.”
20. Utilize the hanger hack
Kristi Brooks Pennington, a stylist based in San Diego, CA, and Los Angeles, CA, shares a clever closet decluttering tip. “Align all your hangers in the same direction. Each time you wear an item, rotate the hanger. If a hanger remains unchanged for 12 months, it’s a sign you’re not wearing that piece and it’s ready for donation.”
The ultimate home reset this spring: Final thoughts
By incorporating these strategies to elevate our living spaces, from decluttering and simplifying to infusing nature and prioritizing wellness, we set the stage for a season of joy, contentment, and renewal. Here’s to a spring filled with happiness, harmony, and endless possibilities.
As the world awakens from its winter slumber and the air fills with a sense of renewal, there’s no better time to embark on the ultimate spring reset for your home. And with this sense of renewal comes an energetic craving to tidy up our homes and welcome the spring season. After a long winter season, where’s the best place to begin refreshing the home?
From decluttering and organizing to deep cleaning rituals and nature-inspired decor, this ApartmentGuide article is your guide for tips and techniques for crafting a sanctuary for the spring season ahead. Whether you live in an apartment in Des Moines, IA or a rental home in Portland, OR, and are looking to incorporate fresh florals, declutter your space, or embrace a new color palette, we’ve got you covered.
Step 1: Get a fresh start by decluttering and organizing
Decluttering your home is not just about tidying up; it’s about creating a sense of space, clarity, and peace within your home. By eliminating excess belongings, you can reduce stress, increase productivity, and improve overall well-being. Start by breaking down decluttering tasks into manageable chunks, focusing on one area at a time to avoid overwhelm. Sort items into categories such as keep, donate, sell, or discard, and be ruthless in your decision-making process. Ask yourself if each item serves a purpose or brings joy, and if not, let it go.
Organizing also plays a vital role in maintaining a functional living space, promoting efficiency, clarity, and well-being. Assess your needs, devise a plan, and utilize storage solutions to categorize items effectively. Regularly declutter and reassess to maintain efficiency.
Seek permission and compromise
If you live with one or more people, it’s important to seek permission and compromise when decluttering. Professional organizer Nassim Secci of The Happy Space Co. emphasizes, “Overcoming the hurdle can be challenging, especially when a spouse is hesitant to let go. Start by gaining permission to organize items without discarding any initially, ensuring they consent to any discarding. The act of categorizing and rearranging possessions can often spark a positive shift, and even without discarding, an organized space can bring a sense of order and freshness to your home.”
Store winter gear
With spring on its way and summer just around the corner, Sarit Weiss, founder of Neat and Orderly home organizing company, recommends walking through the house collecting all winter accessories, gear, and clothing. “Place them in clearly labeled bins or using transparent bins for easy visibility, and find a place to store them for the season. Think under beds, on a high shelf in a closet, or consider investing in a small storage unit if necessary. With this system, you’ll free up space for the current season’s essentials. Bring the beach chairs, summer accessories, and sports equipment to the front of your closets or mudroom for easy access.”
Aim for progress, not perfection
“Spring heralds abundance, possibility, new life, and growth — a sense of everything falling into place,” shares holistic life coach, Carmen Ohling. “This spring, our aim is progress, not perfection, recognizing the link between mental clutter and physical disorder. Clean out your sock and underwear drawer, discarding stained, hole-ridden, or overly stretched items.
Select one task from the list—organize the kitchen utensil drawer, back half of the clothes closet, desk drawer, makeup bag and skincare drawer, or junk drawer — completing it fully. Often, we hoard due to scarcity mentality or comfort in the past. Assess each item’s alignment with your present self; if unused in six months, discard. Embrace Marie Kondo’s principle: If it doesn’t spark joy, let it go.”
Step 2: Tidy up your living space
Deep cleaning your home not only restores a sense of freshness but also promotes a healthier living environment. Prioritize areas that accumulate dust and grime, such as baseboards, ceiling fans, and vents. Use a microfiber cloth and all-purpose cleaner to wipe down surfaces, paying attention to neglected spots like light switches and doorknobs. Don’t forget to vacuum carpets and upholstery thoroughly, and mop hard floors with a disinfectant solution. Finally, tackle overlooked areas like behind appliances, inside cabinets, and beneath furniture to ensure a thorough cleaning.
When it comes to refreshing your space for the spring season, lifestyle blogger Kimberly Samantha from Brunch and Gloss advises, “Edit, edit, edit.” According to Samantha, “Right after the holiday season, spring cleaning is the best time to go through what you have and make a whole household edit. Everything should have a home; if something doesn’t have a home, then chances are you don’t need it. Take time to organize your space in a way that’s functional and achievable for your lifestyle.”
Step 3: Refresh your wardrobe
Refreshing your wardrobe in spring is a chance to not only update your style with fresh colors and patterns but also clean out your closet and maximize your space.
Practice the one in, one out rule
“Consider adopting the ‘one in, one out’ rule,” suggests personal stylist Beth Divine, MA, AICI-CIC based in Indianapolis, IN. “For every new item you bring into your wardrobe, donate one to a charitable organization. Embrace a new trend by trying out sling-back shoes, particularly in trendy styles like two-tone spectators or vibrant colors like blue, pink, or green. You might be surprised by how often you reach for them. Or, add a pair of straight, dark rinse or cream color jeans to your wardrobe that’s easy to pair with anything. Finally, work with a professional to learn your best colors; build your wardrobe or clean out your closet.”
Shop your closet
“Take inventory, mix and match pieces, and integrate items from your winter wardrobe for new outfits, saving money and keeping your closet clutter-free,” explains certified wardrobe stylist Lisa Samsom of Vermont Wardrobe Styling. “Be sure to use a steamer to remove wrinkles and freshen up clothing after bringing them out of storage. Explore your winter wardrobe for burgundy, a hot spring color, and pair it with tans and creams. Create a ‘most wanted list for winter’ to guide future purchases and prevent unnecessary buys. Embrace pre-loved items at thrift stores and vintage shops. To declutter effectively, adopt an ‘outfit mindset’ by assessing each item’s versatility and styling potential, helping you differentiate between essential pieces and unnecessary clutter.”
Add a splash of color or pattern
“Embrace the spring season by incorporating pastel shades and floral prints into your outfits, which can easily be mixed and matched with neutral pieces you already own,” shares Nancy Queen, wardrobe stylist at Shopping on Champagne. “Consider layering lightweight fabrics to navigate the unpredictable spring weather stylishly. This approach not only refreshes your look but also allows you to experiment with different combinations without a complete wardrobe overhaul.”
Step 4: Integrate spring into your interior design
Bring a refreshing burst of color into your home, infusing spaces with the vibrant energy of the season. By incorporating spring decor elements like light pastel colors, natural textures, and floral accents, you can create an uplifting and rejuvenating atmosphere within the home.
Evoke the essence of spring
“As we transition into the warm embrace of spring, the longer days and pleasant, soft sunlight often inspire us to change,” shares Debora Interiors, a virtual interior design service and 3D renderings to create customized designs. “Evoke the bloom of nature into your home by introducing floral touches and soft pastels through fabrics, wall tapestries, décor, and wall paint. Opt for lightweight, natural fabrics such as cotton and linen for your textiles to allow your space to breathe and let the warm sunlight in. Fresh, colorful flowers will be your best friend as they are the finishing touch to any inviting home.”
“I love infusing my living space with lighter colors and vibrant energy,” says Gretchen Reese, lifestyle blogger at Monochrome Minimalist. “Whether it’s introducing a fresh pillow cover or a lighter throw, placing a new plant by the window, or indulging in a scent that evokes the essence of the changing season, each touch revitalizes my space, breathing new life into it for the springtime.”
Embrace the power of simplicity
Melissa Vera, blogger at Adventures of Frugal Mom says, “Clear away winter remnants, opt for lighter and brighter hues, and strategically place mirrors to amplify natural light. Introduce floral accents, be it through fresh blooms or botanical-themed decor, for an instant burst of springtime charm. Embrace a minimalist approach, allowing your space to breathe and embody the refreshing essence of the season.”
Display one-of-a-kind items that have a deep connection to your roots
Erica Shepard, NCIDQ, IIDA, LEED AP ID+C, Owner + Principal Designer at Shepard Design Studio, explains that a home should have a timeless foundation that can seamlessly adapt to the evolving trends while allowing a canvas for personal expression.
“Think bold accent walls, statement furniture, or playful accessories that can thoughtfully incorporate meaningful pieces. This could mean uncovering treasures from your closet or storage spaces – cherished family heirlooms could take center stage on your gallery wall or you could feature vintage furniture pieces awaiting to be refreshed. Your local frame shop or services like Framebridge are great DIY resources for displaying beloved objects or nostalgic photos in your home,” suggests Shephard.
Bring nature in
Our homes offer us the perfect excuse to embrace the changing season. According to Heather Calder, owner of Heather Interior Design, you can refresh your space with something as simple as a new paint color to freshen and liven up the space.
“Try something new and be bold,” suggests Calder. “Adorn your front door with a welcoming floral wreath and infuse the air with the scent of spring using candles. Incorporating nature into our living spaces offers countless benefits.”
Infuse your space with cheer
“With spring’s arrival, now is the ideal time for a home refresh,” states Cemre Yurdakul, interior designer and property stylist at Cinnamon & Vanilla Interior Design. “Consider replacing those heavy winter blankets with light and airy throws in vibrant spring hues like sunny yellows or soft pastels. Incorporating a few potted plants or fresh flowers can infuse your home with the rejuvenating essence of spring. Let’s aim to create living spaces that radiate the brightness and cheerfulness of the season itself.”
Step 5: Brighten up your space with flowers
By incorporating flowers, you can instantly add a vibrant burst of color and a delightful fragrance, lifting spirits and bringing a touch of nature indoors.
Use blooming branches for a touch of spring
“Cutting branches from trees and shrubs in the early spring is an easy way to bring some drama into your home,” shares Megan, owner of Field Floral Studio, a fine art florist in Portland, ME. “Given fresh water and warmth, bare branches will start to leaf out or flower depending on which variety you choose. Cut each branch on a slant, place it in a large vase, and watch the magic unfold.”
Portland, OR-based flower delivery By the Bunch Floral Alchemy also recommends decorating with branches. Celebrate spring by bringing blooming branches indoors — dogwood, quince, forsythia, tulip, star magnolia, cherry, and plum blossom create stunning displays. The trick with these is to cut them early as soon as the buds start to show, splitting stems for better water absorption, and be sure to change the water every couple of days to get them to last longer. The warm interior temperatures will speed up their blooming process, and depending on how early you cut them, you might get as much as a week or two out of them. Local flower farms typically offer CSA subscriptions for seasonal blooms, with some providing delivery. Consider researching nearby options to support local.”
Choose seasonal and local blooms first
“Choose seasonal and local blooms first,” advises Bianca Sparta, owner of Colibri Flowers in Portland, OR. “This ensures that your flowers are as fresh as possible and will give you the longest vase life. Flowers should spark joy so choose and arrange however pleases you the most.”
Step 6: Incorporate principles of personal growth
This spring, prioritize fostering a nurturing environment that supports individual development and well-being. By surrounding oneself with reminders of personal goals, affirmations, and inspirational quotes, one can cultivate a mindset of growth and self-improvement in their daily life.
Focus on what you desire to maintain
“Your environment can support you in creating your ideal habits and routines,” explains Jessica Malone, life coach at Nacho Average Fro. “First, before you declutter, identify how you want to use the space, then identify what items can assist you. For example, if you want to spend more time journaling, consider where to place your journal and what additional items you need to support that habit.
Once you’ve selected the space, remove the items currently in that place and ask yourself ‘Do any of these items support my desired habits and routines?’ Whatever does not support you should be let go. After you’ve dedicated space to the things that support the life you desire, you’ll build new habits with ease.”
Create a space where you feel like you belong
Life coach Nisha Mody shares, “Spring is a great time to plant seeds for new growth within ourselves and in our environments. I love to think of ways to resource myself in different environments, and I encourage my clients to do the same. Resourcing ourselves is about finding something we can attune to that makes our bodies feel safe and like we belong. In terms of living spaces, this can mean having a photo of a loved one near a workspace, putting a plant near a window to witness its growth, or thinking of color palettes that soothe your body and soul.”
Establish tech-free zones in your home
“By designating specific areas as tech-free, you can create a space that fosters mindfulness, clarity, creativity, and real connections,” explains Abbey Sangmeister, life coach and therapist at Evolving Whole in New Jersey and Philadelphia, PA. “Make this a space you will want to go to; one with great lighting, candles, plants, and a journal in that area. Keep journal prompts, affirmations, or a card deck in the area to help you focus on personal growth, especially if you are feeling stuck with prompts. Personally, I am not a minimalist, so I like having trinkets, photos, art, and little reminders from travels and challenges I’ve accomplished surrounding me.”
Unlock motivation with the fresh start effect
Aileen Axtmayer, career coach at Aspire with Aileen based out of Boston, MA, discusses the ‘fresh start effect.’ “Our brains are more inclined to take action when they perceive the start of a new time period, such as the onset of a new year or season. With the arrival of spring, a new season commences, providing an opportune moment to refresh our environments and reinvigorate our pursuit of goals.”
Step 7: Focus on your emotional well-being with meditation
Meditation cultivates inner calm, resilience, and a greater sense of clarity amid life’s challenges. Integrating meditation into your life this spring can foster a harmonious environment conducive to self-reflection, renewal, and embracing the transformative energy of the season.
Create a dedicated space
“It’s true you can meditate anywhere; however, creating a dedicated space for meditation can help you support and maintain your practice,” says Claire E. Parsons, lawyer, meditation teacher, author, and founder of the Brilliant Legal Mind blog. “First, consider what kind of energy best supports your practice. Do you need calm and quiet, a cozy container, or light and space? Next, identify a small space that suits these needs and fits functionally with your lifestyle. Then, simply add supportive elements, including cushions, a bench, blankets, candles, and any decorative or spiritual items, and your space is ready for sitting in comfort.”
Lauren Schuivens, founder and CEO of Samavira Meditation, meditation training that helps you adapt traditional techniques to how your mind works best, explains that the area you choose to dedicate to your practice can be as simple as a corner in your room. “Add cozy seating, plants, soft lighting, and soothing colors. Personalize it with items like candles and crystals to enhance relaxation. Having a dedicated meditation space not only allows you to rejuvenate and find inner peace amidst the changing seasons, but can also help you drop into your practice more easily and deeply as your body begins to associate the space with a sense of tranquility.”
Invite tranquility and renewal in
Brennan, founder of meditation company Mindkee, dedicated to helping you relax and breathe, weighs in on this topic. “Elevate your ambiance by incorporating a cozy meditation pillow or cushion, gently nudging you towards moments of mindful reprieve. Infuse the air with calming aromas from incense or scented candles, or enliven the space with air-purifying plants for a serene atmosphere.
Surround yourself with imagery that inspires peace and positivity, whether it’s pictures of sages or loved ones who bring solace to your spirit. Above all, commit to a daily meditation practice to foster mental well-being and embrace the transformative power of consistent mindfulness in your life. Stay blessed, stay positive, and don’t forget to relax and breathe because your mind is key.”
Step 8: Bring the outdoors in with plants
Plants not only add aesthetic beauty but also enhance indoor air quality and boost mood and productivity. Incorporating greenery into your living space connects you with nature, fostering a sense of tranquility amid the changing season.
Begin fertilizing in early spring
Plant nursery Potted in Portland says spring is the perfect time to have a plant check-in. “We suggest starting spring plant care with fertilizing in March and assessing the soil to see if it needs a refresh or repotting. Prune away unwanted growth and remove any crispy or discolored leaves. Don’t forget, with increased sunlight, watering needs will likely increase as well.”
Consider your space and lifestyle
Tailored houseplant subscription service Plant in the Box, recommends plant parents to think about placement, care needs, and aesthetics to refresh their home. “Consider aloe vera or snake plants for bright sunlit spots. Fill slightly shaded or indirectly lit areas with philodendrons and ferns. If you lead a busy lifestyle or travel frequently, low-maintenance options like spider plants or pothos are ideal, requiring less frequent care. For aesthetics, decide if you prefer a plant that grows large, like the monstera, to fill a space, or something more compact, like a peace lily, to enhance your home’s look and feel.”
Mix textures and heights
“Opt for a mix of textures and heights when styling houseplants – consider combining trailing vines with tall, sculptural plants for a dynamic effect,” suggests Cultivated Creations, offering a unique collection of plants and local art in Baltimore, MD. “To boost your plant care routine, consider repurposing kitchen waste into homemade fertilizer using banana peels. Simply place banana peels in a mason jar, cover them with water, and let them soak for a week. After removing the peels, use the nutrient-rich water to nourish your plants, providing them with natural and beneficial hydration.”
Perfect picks for beginners
Mishele Freeman, founder of Emerald & Ivy Plant Boutique in San Diego, CA recommends a few beginner-friendly plants. “Golden pothos, ZZ plants, dracaenas, and snake plants are great beginner plants because they can tolerate any level of light, don’t need to be watered often, and are overall very low maintenance. These plants also have a neutral look to them, so pairing any of these with a fun pot (or even neutral, if that’s your aesthetic) makes it so easy to adapt them into your lifestyle. Keeping a pot neutral when paired with a more fun, detailed plant helps those intricacies stand out, and vice versa.”
Step 9: Find spring-inspired recipes that embody freshness
Spring brings an abundance of fresh produce, making it the perfect time to incorporate vibrant and nutritious recipes into your diet. From crisp salads bursting with seasonal greens and colorful vegetables to light and refreshing fruit-based desserts, there’s no shortage of delicious options to enjoy.
Embrace green foods
Monique Costello, functional medicine wellness coach and chef at Happy Eats Healthy weighs in on this topic. “As spring arrives, our bodies naturally crave fresh, light, and nutritious foods, signaling a desire to cleanse after the heavier winter fare. Incorporate greens generously by adding them to pasta sauces and soups, blending them into dressings, crafting wraps with leafy greens, or pulsing veggies into rice. For added nutritional benefits, consider topping dishes with sprouts, which boast a nutrient density 10 to 30 times higher than their mature counterparts.”
Eat your fruits and veggies
Salads are ideal for springtime as they incorporate fresh, seasonal produce, providing a light and refreshing option in warmer weather while offering a nutritious and satisfying meal. A great way to get your fruits and veggies in all at once is by simply combining the two.
Nina Cherie Franklin, recipe blogger at That Salad Lady recommends a berry spinach salad. “It’s a quick, delightful fusion of spring’s finest – fresh strawberries, blueberries and spinach, ready in under 15 minutes. Creamy avocado adds richness and heart-healthy fats, capturing the essence of spring with its fresh, buttery taste. Tossed in a homemade strawberry vinaigrette crafted from apple cider vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, and honey, this salad strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory flavors. This bowl is bursting with fresh flavors, textures, and nutritional goodness.”
Refreshing your home this spring
By decluttering, organizing, and infusing your space with the vibrant energy of the season, you can create a home that truly embodies the essence of spring. Whether it’s adding touches of greenery, embracing light and airy decor, or simply opening your windows to let in the fresh air, every small change can make a big difference.
As you breathe new life into your surroundings, embrace the beauty of simplicity, the joy of fresh beginnings, and the promise of growth as you embark on this transformative journey. Here’s to a season of growth, positivity, and endless possibilities in your beautifully refreshed space.
Sterling ‘Steelo’ Brim, the charismatic co-host and producer of MTV’s hit show Ridiculousness, known for his quick wit and infectious laughter, has found his slice of paradise in L.A.’s family-friendly Encino neighborhood.
Dropping a cool $4.150 million back in 2020 for the then-newly built manse, Brim’s move into the celeb-favored enclave added another star to Encino’s glittering firmament.
Fast forward two years and Brim proudly showcased his stunning home on a segment of the revamped MTV Cribs, giving fans a personal tour of his lavish lifestyle and impeccable taste. And we’re here to fill you in on all the details that didn’t make their way into the video tour.
Especially since we’re intimately familiar with the Encino residence, which we covered extensively when it first came to market back in November 2019. Maya Librush at The Agency held the listing.
He paid $4,150,000 for the stylish new build
Ridiculousness host Steelo Brim lives in a 6,000-square-foot home that was built just two years before he purchased it in October 2020 for $4,150,000.
The modern farmhouse-inspired abode has five bedrooms, seven baths, and an array of jaw-dropping amenities that blend seamlessly with the California lifestyle.
Fun fact: Brim’s Encino house sits on the same street as Cher’s house in ‘Clueless’ (that’s right, while said to be in Beverly Hills, the 1995 cult movie featured a San Fernando Valley house as the Horowitz residence).
Key numbers & facts
Location: Encino, Los Angeles CA
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 7
Square footage: 6,000
Year built: 2018
Lot size: 0.27 acres
Amenities: a recreation/billiards room, wet bar and kitchenette, a walk-in wine room, a home gym, home theater, a basketball court, putting green, and a backyard with a resort-style swim-up bar in the grand pool
Other structures: pool house
Purchase price: $4,150,000 (October 2020)
Seeing that Brim purchased the home at the height of the pandemic house-buying craze, well before interest rates shot up, he had to pay a little over the asking price to land the property, which was listed for $3,985,000.
But he definitely got his money’s worth, as we’re about to see.
A look inside Steelo Brim’s house & its many amenities
Walking past the short white wall and through the gates of Brim’s transitional-style abode, you’re greeted by a sleek exterior of smooth white stucco accented with jet-black trim—an early hint at the elegance that lies within.
Boasting a modern farmhouse-inspired design — a common architectural style for the area, which has proven to attract star power to the neighborhood, as Michael B. Jordan’s stylish farmhouse shows — Steelo Brim’s house blends modern architecture with classic elegance.
Step through the pivoting wooden door, and you enter a world where contemporary design meets homely warmth. You’re welcomed by a grand entryway with unique water features, a floating walkway, and vaulted ceilings.
The great room—a harmonious blend of the living room, dining area, and kitchen—sets the tone with its vaulted ceilings, pale hardwood floors, and a linear fireplace that demands attention, all basking in the glow of natural light.
The kitchen, a marvel in its own right, boasts Calacatta marble countertops that echo the home’s refined aesthetic, complemented by a contemporary chandelier in the dining area that adds a touch of modern sophistication.
It also has state-of-the-art Thermador appliances and an oversized island.
Ascend to the master bedroom, and you’re met with a cozy fireplace, a vast window flooding the space with light, and a private patio that offers a serene overlook of the backyard oasis.
The en-suite bathroom, with its clawfoot soaking tub, vanity area, and walk-in steam shower, is a spa-like retreat promising relaxation and luxury.
Additionally, there’s also a huge walk-in closet and dressing room, masterfully designed bathrooms, and stunning fireplaces in the living room, the master bedroom, and the outdoor lounging area.
The backyard is an entertainer’s dream, featuring a large rectangular pool and spa, a sunken BBQ area, and an ultra-luxe pool house—ensuring that every day feels like a vacation.
More outdoor amenities that add to the charm (and fun) are a basketball court, a putting green, and a resort-style swim-up bar in the grand pool.
There’s also a sanctuary seating area with serene views, an oversized steam shower, and an 18K gold applique fireplace, just for opulence’s sake.
And for those rare chilly L.A. evenings, the estate’s indoor perks like a movie theater, a wine cellar with a tasting area, and a game room with a wet bar ensure the entertainment never ends.
It’s clear that this Ridiculousness star, who reportedly rakes in around $140,000 per episode, has invested not just in a property, but in creating a haven that reflects his success and personality. And we couldn’t be happier for him, especially knowing that he made his fortunes by making us laugh.
If you want to see more or tour the house alongside Steelo Brim himself, here’s the full MTV Cribs episode, which will also take you through Macy Gray’s LA home and pro snowboarder Nick Baumgartner’s Michigan space.
More stories
Danny McBride’s sleek penthouse at The Broadway Hollywood is up for grabs
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s house is a striking $27.8M mansion
Pete Davidson lives in a penthouse loft in Brooklyn, is no longer ‘The King of Staten Island’
Looking for a real estate side hustle? Whether you are looking for passive income ideas or if you are looking for a part-time job (or more!), there are many different real estate side hustles. I have done a few different real estate side gigs, and I know many people who have side hustles in this…
Looking for a real estate side hustle?
Whether you are looking for passive income ideas or if you are looking for a part-time job (or more!), there are many different real estate side hustles.
I have done a few different real estate side gigs, and I know many people who have side hustles in this area as well. To get started in real estate, you don’t have to spend a lot of money – there are several real estate side gigs that can be started even if you are brand new or are on a budget.
Key Takeaways
Real estate side hustles have a range of options from income generating assets to freelance opportunities to office jobs.
You can supplement your income with both short-term and long-term real estate strategies.
Finding the right fit depends on your availability, investment capacity, and financial goals.
Best Real Estate Side Hustles
Here’s a quick summary of some of the different best real estate side hustles:
House hacking: Buy a property, live in one unit, and rent out the rest.
REIT investing: An easy way to start investing in real estate with less capital.
Airbnb rentals: Rent out a spare room or an entire property on a short-term basis.
Property management: If you’re organized and good with people, managing properties for others could be a perfect fit.
Long-term rentals: Becoming a landlord can generate steady cash flow.
Fix and flip: Buy properties that need work, renovate them, and sell them for a profit.
Below, you will read the full list and learn more about each one.
1. House flipping
Flipping houses can be a good real estate side hustle if you like real estate and enjoy fixing things up.
When you flip houses, you’re basically buying homes, making them better with repairs and upgrades, and then selling them to make more money.
The first thing to do for a successful house flip is to find a property that can be made better, such as by looking for homes in neighborhoods that are getting better or have room to grow. Think about things like where it is, what the market is like, and the condition of the property.
Before putting money into anything, it’s important to carefully look at the finances. You’ll want to figure out how much it will cost to buy, fix, and keep the property, and think about things like the cost of materials, paying workers, getting a loan, and the costs while you’re fixing things.
To flip a house well, you need to make smart changes that make the property better, without spending too much, by concentrating on important areas like the kitchen and bathrooms, and fixing any big problems with the structure or safety.
Recommended reading: 10 Best Books on Flipping Houses To Make Money
2. Investing in REITs
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are companies that own, operate, or finance income-generating real estate. They are a way for you to invest in real estate without directly managing or owning properties.
An REIT is like a company that owns and takes care of real estate that makes money. They sell shares of this company to people, kind of like how stocks work.
When you invest in REITs, you can earn money from the real estate world without actually owning any property. So, if you don’t want to deal with being a landlord, this could be a good option. It’s way less work than owning property and handling it yourself.
You can even spread out your money and invest in different kinds of properties with REITs, like houses, offices, factories, and stores.
3. Getting a roommate
Getting a roommate in your home, whether that be a full-time roommate or renting out an extra room in your home short-term on Airbnb, can be a great real estate side hustle that doesn’t require very much work from you.
The earnings you can make from having a roommate depend on things like:
Where your home is (an expensive area? rural?)
The space you are renting to a roommate (for example, do they get their own bathroom? private entrance available?)
To find a roommate, you can share about it on your own Facebook page, put up an ad on sites like Craigslist, or make a rental listing on Airbnb. There are lots of places where you can let people know you’re looking for a roommate.
I have had many roommates in the past when I was younger and had a home with spare bedrooms. I would rent them out to long-term renters and people that we personally knew (such as friends and my sister).
Recommended reading: Tips For Renting A Room In Your House.
4. Airbnbs and vacation rentals
Turning your property into an Airbnb or other short-term rental can be a way to generate extra income. This is when you rent out your space, whether a full house, an apartment, or just a room, to travelers for short stays.
Before starting your Airbnb side hustle, be sure to:
Check local laws: Make sure short-term rentals are permitted in your area. There are many areas nowadays that are more strict when it comes to short-term rentals.
Understand the financials: Calculate potential earnings against expenses like mortgage, utilities, and maintenance.
Set up your space: Furnish and decorate to create a welcoming environment.
Market your rental: Use high-quality photos and create listings on rental platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo.
The amount you can earn can vary, with some hosts making around $5,000 to $10,000 a month or more, but this depends on factors such as location, rental type, and occupancy rates. Always plan for occupancy ebbs and flows – it’s part of the short-term rental business.
5. Real estate photography
If you’ve ever looked at a house listing and thought that the pictures looked awful, then this may be the real estate side hustle for you.
Real estate agents many times hire out for the photography side of selling a house, as they know and understand how important good pictures are.
Real estate photography is all about taking pictures of houses and spaces to grab the attention of people who might want to buy them. Real estate photographers might take pictures of the outside of a house, the backyard, the living room, attic, bathroom, and more.
You can start with the equipment you likely already have, like your smartphone, which can work well because phones these days have great cameras.
How you show a property can really impact a client’s chance of selling it. Your photos are not just pictures; they’re an important part of how the property gets advertised.
As you continue with this real estate side hustle, you might think about getting better equipment (like a real camera!), but for now, practice paying attention to details and getting better at taking pictures.
If you’re thinking about doing something extra to earn money in real estate, photography could be a great choice.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
6. Real estate drone photography
Drone pilots sell real estate photography services to help real estate agents showcase the properties they are selling.
When property listings include pictures from various angles and heights, it gives a different perspective compared to regular photos. This helps show aspects of real estate that traditional pictures might miss.
When you sell property photography services using your drone, you’re providing a valuable service to real estate companies that want to stand out in a crowded housing market.
Homes are increasingly being sold using drone photos, and it’s understandable because they can showcase the surroundings of a home. Also, potential home buyers can see the entire property and house through a drone picture, giving them a better understanding of what the home includes.
Recommended reading: How To Make Money With A Drone
7. Long-term rentals
A long-term rental is when you rent out a property for a long amount of time, usually six months to a year or even longer. An example would be renting out an apartment or house to a family to live in full-time.
Long-term rentals are different from short-term rentals like vacation homes or Airbnb listings. They are meant for people or families looking for a longer place to live.
A benefit of long-term rentals is the reliable and steady income they can give you. When you rent your property to tenants for an extended period, you set up a regular cash flow of rental payments. This stability can be especially nice for people who are looking for a dependable source of passive income.
Plus, it’s usually less work than a short-term rental, because you don’t have to clean the home every few days or find new people to rent out to.
Recommended reading: How This 34 Year Old Owns 7 Rental Homes
8. Buy and hold for long-term wealth
If you want to grow wealth through real estate, the buy-and-hold strategy is a way to achieve lasting growth. This means buying a property and keeping it for an extended period, benefiting from both its increasing value over time and the rental income it makes you over the years.
Some positives to think about with a buy-and-hold real estate side hustle include:
Appreciation: Over time, real estate often increases in value.
Rental income: It can provide a steady cash flow each month.
Tax advantages: Possible deductions can reduce your taxable income.
The buy-and-hold strategy requires patience and a willingness to handle market changes. It’s a long-term approach, not a quick one, but if you stay persistent, you can create an investment portfolio for future financial stability.
9. Notary services for real estate
If you want to get more into the real estate world without becoming an agent or broker, becoming a notary public can be a way to make extra money.
Many documents, including deeds, mortgages, and power of attorney, require notarization to be legally binding.
With a notarization license, you can provide an important service required for different real estate transactions.
Notaries are important because they help make sure that the people signing documents are who they claim to be to prevent fraud.
10. Rental arbitrage
Rental arbitrage is a way to make extra money in real estate without owning a property. You rent a place for a long time and then sublease it as a short-term rental using platforms like Airbnb.
Here’s how to get started:
Check local laws: You’ll want to make sure your city or state allows for short-term rentals.
Make sure the rental allows for you to do this: Not every rental will be okay with you renting it out. You will want to read your rental contract carefully.
Do market research: Understand the demand for short-term rentals in your target area, such as by looking for locations with high tourist traffic or business conferences.
Potential Benefits
Considerations
+ Strong cash flow potential
– Initial setup and furnishing cost
+ Low startup costs compared to buying
– Dependence on short-term rental market stability
Making money in rental arbitrage comes from the difference between the cost of the long-term lease and the income from short-term rentals. The bigger the gap, the more potential for profit. But remember to factor in the expenses of running the rentals, like cleaning and maintenance costs.
11. House hacking
House hacking is a strategic approach to real estate where you purchase a property with multiple units and live in one unit while renting out the others. This is a side hustle because it can help offset your living expenses through the rental income.
House hacking can be an easy starting point if you want to dip your toes into real estate investing with the added perk of reducing your personal living expenses.
Back when we were living in a traditional house, we house hacked for a little while and had a few different roommates live with us. The monthly rent we collected allowed us to lower our house payments and put more money in savings.
We house hacked with our first house, and it was really great for us. Being able to set more money aside even helped me get ready to quit my job to become a full-time blogger.
If you are looking for a good book on the subject of house hacking, then I recommend reading The House Hacking Strategy: How to Use Your Home to Achieve Financial Freedom by Craig Curelop.
Recommended reading: What Is House Hacking & How To Live For Free
12. Real estate agent
A real estate agent is a person who helps people, like you and me, find real estate to buy or sell. They usually earn their income through a commission, which is a percentage of the property’s sale price.
To become a real estate agent and start this real estate career, you only need a high school diploma and a professional license. As of 2021, the median pay, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, is $23.45 per hour, or $48,770 per year.
And, there are tons of real estate agents who make a lot more money than this.
13. Crowdfunding and peer-to-peer lending
If you want to learn how to make extra money in real estate, then crowdfunding and peer-to-peer lending are areas to look into.
Crowdfunding platforms allow you to invest in real estate deals with a smaller amount of money compared to purchasing property outright. This can provide you with passive income through rental returns or potential property value appreciation.
Peer-to-peer lending platforms enable you to lend money directly to borrowers. You can potentially earn higher returns compared to traditional savings accounts, but there is always the risk of a borrower not repaying the loan.
Both crowdfunding and peer-to-peer lending utilize technology to connect investors with individuals seeking funding.
14. Bird dogging
Bird dogging in real estate can be a side hustle where you help find potentially profitable properties for investors. Your skill in spotting undervalued or distressed properties is important.
Here’s what you usually need to do:
Conduct market research to locate properties that are flying under the radar.
Build a network with local real estate investors who are looking for deals.
Learn to use the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) to spot opportunities.
Typically, you’ll be on the lookout for foreclosures, bank-owned properties, and distressed homes due for a quick sale.
As a bird dog, your compensation usually comes from a referral fee after the investor decides to move forward with your find. Importantly, to perform this role, you don’t necessarily need any initial capital, just the time and skill to identify promising investment opportunities.
15. General contractor
General contractors handle the day-to-day activities on construction sites, overseeing tasks from residential remodels to constructing new homes.
This is typically more of a full-time job, but this can sometimes be done as a real estate side hustle.
As a general contractor, you can choose projects that match your schedule and interests, providing flexibility. Despite the responsibilities, this role allows you to play a central role in turning plans into actual buildings, giving you the potential to make extra money.
16. Flip raw land
Getting involved in raw land flipping is when a person finds and buys undeveloped land to sell later at a profit.
The main benefits include a lower initial investment and less complexity compared to traditional real estate investments, as it doesn’t involve renovation or improvements. There are no buildings, instead it may be a lot or acres of land.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to start:
Find raw land – Research areas with potential growth or upcoming developments that could boost land value.
Due diligence – Perform thorough checks on land titles, zoning laws, and road access to avoid legal issues.
Pricing strategy – Your selling price should be attractive enough for buyers yet ensure you make a reasonable profit margin.
Sell and negotiate – Use online platforms to reach potential buyers and negotiate the best deal.
17. Rent out your storage space
If you have unused land or space in your home, renting it out for storage space can be an easy way to make passive income.
People have a lot of stuff, and they will pay you to store their stuff in your unused spaces.
You can sell storage solutions for vehicles, boats, personal belongings, and more. You can rent out your parking space, closet, basement, attic storage, and more.
A site where you can list your storage space is called Neighbor and you can earn $100 to $400+ each month. This depends on the demand in your area and the type of storage space you are renting out.
Recommended reading: Neighbor Review: Make Money Renting Your Storage Space
18. Property manager
A property manager side hustle can be a great way to make extra money.
A property manager is a real estate professional who finds and oversees tenants, collects rent, and handles repairs and maintenance activities. It’s a side hustle that property owners pay for because they may not have the time or skills to effectively manage their own property.
Property managers can manage long-term rentals like apartments, short-term rentals like Airbnbs, and even commercial spaces as well.
I have a friend who is a property manager on the side of his full-time construction job – he manages many different types of properties, from second homes to vacation rentals to someone simply being out of town. He checks on their properties to make sure that everything is running smoothly.
19. Home stager
If you’re passionate about real estate and design, starting a side hustle as a home stager could be profitable for you. As a home stager, your job is to improve the appearance of a home before it’s listed for sale.
This often results in faster sales and higher prices, making your service valuable to sellers.
You can start by staging homes for friends or family, if possible, to build a portfolio. Before and after photos are powerful tools to showcase your work.
You can even provide consultations to homeowners who prefer to do the actual staging themselves. In such cases, your design style can be a more budget-friendly option for a do-it-yourself homeowner.
20. Home inspector
We recently bought a house, and our home inspector was actually a home inspector on the side – this was his real estate side hustle! I think he was a city inspector (or something similar) full-time, so he was very knowledgeable in the area.
Home inspection as a side job can be a strategic move if you’re interested in real estate. This job allows for flexibility since you can set your hours, such as by completing home inspections on the weekends or before or after your day job.
You’ll need to invest in proper training and get licensed, which is a process that can be completed relatively quickly.
The responsibilities of a home inspector include:
Inspecting homes for possible problems, like a leak or bad wiring.
Creating and delivering reports based on what you find during the inspection.
21. Real estate appraiser
Real estate appraisers determine the fair market value of a property, and this process is important in transactions, such as home sales and refinances.
Appraisers assess property values by taking notes on unique characteristics and comparing them with similar properties that have sold recently.
They then prepare reports, detailing findings and providing a valuation that banks and other institutions depend on for loans.
22. Real estate wholesaler
Real estate wholesalers are middlemen who find properties under market value, contract them with the seller, and then sell the contract to a buyer, often an investor. Their profit comes from the difference between the contracted price with the seller and the amount the buyer pays.
Here is a quick summary of what a wholesale real estate side hustle is:
Find a distressed property – Search for properties that can be bought below market value.
Evaluate the property – Determine the After Repair Value (ARV) and estimate repair costs.
Secure under contract – Enter into a contract with the seller, giving you the right to purchase.
Find a buyer – Locate an investor interested in buying the contract.
Assign the contract – Transfer your purchasing rights to the investor for a fee.
By becoming skilled at finding good deals and building connections with trustworthy investors, real estate wholesaling can become a profitable real estate side hustle.
23. Start a real estate blog
Starting a real estate blog (or even a real estate YouTube channel or social media account!) can be a good way to make extra money without having to spend a lot of money.
With a real estate blog, you can write about local market insights, home buying and home selling tips, property investment strategies, home improvement and DIY projects, and more.
I have been a blogger for years, and I really love it. I am able to create my own schedule, decide how I make money online, travel whenever I want, and more. And, it all started on the side of my day job – so I definitely think that a real estate blog can be started as a side hustle.
Learn more at How To Start A Blog FREE Course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about real estate side hustles.
Can real estate be a side hustle? Is real estate a good side hustle?
Yes, real estate can be a lucrative side hustle. Many people do real estate activities on a part-time basis, which can include short-term rentals, getting a roommate, and more, with lower time commitments.
Is real estate worth it as a side hustle?
Real estate as a side hustle can be worth it if you are looking for more income streams and have an interest in the housing market or real estate. As you probably noticed above, there are many different kinds of side hustles, so the amount of money you can earn or the amount of time you will spend will just depend on the gig you choose.
How can realtors make extra money?
Realtors can make extra money by managing rental properties, taking part in real estate crowdfunding, selling real estate photography services, and more.
Is real estate a good side hustle for teachers?
Yes, real estate can be a good side hustle for teachers. There are many options that may work for a teacher.
For example, some teachers work as real estate agents on the side. This is possible because you can handle listing and selling homes during weekends, breaks, evenings, and over the summer. However, keep in mind that selling homes might pose challenges, as clients may require your full attention during the day, which could clash with your teaching commitments.
You can find more ideas at 36 Best Side Jobs for Teachers To Make Extra Money.
Which licenses might be required to pursue a side hustle in the real estate field?
Depending on the side hustle, certain licenses like a real estate license may be required. For example, to become a real estate agent or home inspector, you’ll need a specific license. However, if you’re looking into just getting a roommate, then you may not need a license. It all just depends on the real estate side gig you are interested in.
How to make money in real estate without ever buying any property?
As you learned above, you don’t need to personally buy or own real estate in order to make money in real estate. You can invest in REITs, become a notary for real estate transactions, include affiliate marketing for real estate products on a blog, and more.
Real Estate Side Hustles – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article about real estate side hustles.
Picking the right side hustle gig in real estate might feel overwhelming because there are many choices.
Some people might like jobs where you have to do more, like fixing up houses or taking care of Airbnb rentals. Others might prefer making money without doing much, like through REITs or renting out a spare room.
Whatever you’re into or however much money you have to invest, there are probably real estate side business ideas that fit with what you have and what you want to achieve.
What do you think is the best real estate side hustle?
Looking for the best summer jobs for teachers? Teachers, just like students, really enjoy the summer break. It’s a great time for them to relax and feel refreshed. But, this break can also be a chance for teachers to make extra money and even start a new business. I know many, many teachers who have…
Looking for the best summer jobs for teachers?
Teachers, just like students, really enjoy the summer break. It’s a great time for them to relax and feel refreshed. But, this break can also be a chance for teachers to make extra money and even start a new business.
I know many, many teachers who have side hustles in the summer. From part-time gigs to full-time summer businesses, there are many side jobs for teachers that you may want to try out.
Best Summer Jobs for Teachers
There are many summer jobs for teachers listed below. If you want to skip the list, here are some jobs that you may want to start learning more about first:
Flexible way to freelance – Proofreading
Side job for teachers from home – Blogging
How to make passive income as a teacher – Sell printables
Work as much or as little as you want – Flea market flipping
Creative job idea – Dog treat baker
Side job for teachers in summer – Grocery shopper
Camp counselor – If you love the outdoors, being a camp educator can be both rewarding and enjoyable, combining teaching with adventure activities.
Summer school teacher – Many schools have summer classes where you can continue teaching.
1. Teach summer school
One clear way for teachers to earn extra money in the summer is by teaching summer school.
It’s a good way to use your teaching abilities and make some additional income. The best part is that summer school happens during your summer break (big surprise, right?!), so it fits well with your schedule when you’re already off from regular school.
To start, check with your local school districts. A lot of them have summer school programs, and they usually share job opportunities on their websites or local education job boards.
2. Sell educational printables
Selling educational printables is a way for teachers to earn extra money. It’s especially good for those who want to make passive income as a teacher.
Your materials, like worksheets, lesson plans, and activities, are helpful to other teachers and parents looking for high-quality educational content.
Some places to sell your educational printables include:
Teachers Pay Teachers(TPT) – This is a popular site where millions of teachers buy and sell original educational resources.
Etsy – This site is known for handmade items, but also is a great place for selling educational materials and printables.
Educational printables include things like math problems, vocabulary cards, and science experiments. They’re useful for different grades, age groups, and learning goals, making it simple to improve regular teaching or homeschooling. You can share these resources online or print them for in-person classes too.
Recommended reading: How I Make $400,000 Per Year Selling Educational Printables.
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.
3. Flip used items for resale
Trying your hand at flipping items from flea markets and thrift shops can be a fun and money-making summer job for you as a teacher.
Flippers are people who find items at flea markets, yard sales, and thrift stores that are priced lower than their actual value. They then sell these items for a profit.
The summer is a great time to do this because there are typically a lot of yard sales, flea markets, and people just in general decluttering more (so you may find more things that people are giving away), where you can find items to resell.
Some items that you can buy and resell include clothing, antique furniture, collectible toys, sports equipment, electronics, rare books, jewelry, and more.
10
This free workshop will teach you how to get into the flipping business. It will teach you how to resell furniture, electronics, appliances, and anything else you can find.
4. Tutor
During the summer, your teaching skills are still needed. Tutoring can be a flexible and fulfilling summer job that lets you work with students one-on-one either online or in person.
You may be able to tutor on subjects like math, foreign language, science, and more. You also may be tutoring kids, teenagers, or even adults.
To begin, you can look for tutoring jobs on online tutoring sites like Tutor.com. You can also sell in-person local tutoring sessions by reaching out to tutoring companies nearby or advertising your services on social media or in local Facebook parent groups for your area.
5. Camp counselor
Becoming a camp counselor could be a rewarding experience for you in the summer. In this job, you’d guide groups of children through indoor and outdoor activities, as well as educational programs at summer camps.
Your daily tasks would include keeping campers safe, organizing games, and giving both educational and emotional support.
Summer camps come in different types, ranging from general adventure camps to specialized ones focusing on sports, arts, or science.
6. Freelance bookkeeping gigs
If you like numbers and you’re a teacher, online bookkeeping can be a way to spend your summer.
A bookkeeper is someone who assists in managing and tracking the financial aspects of a business. They usually keep records of sales, track expenses, and generate financial reports.
People with virtual bookkeeping jobs work from home, handling their responsibilities remotely. Virtual bookkeeping is a great choice for remote work as all tasks can be completed online or with computer software, eliminating the need to go into an office physically.
Recommended reading: How To Find Online Bookkeeping Jobs
10
This free training will teach you what you need to know to become a virtual bookkeeper and make money from home.
7. Swim instructor
If you’re a teacher who loves the water, becoming a swim instructor for the summer could be the perfect seasonal job for you. Your educational background gives you the ability to communicate and manage classes, which are important skills for teaching swimming.
To find swim instructor jobs:
Look on websites like Craigslist or Facebook for listings, including summer-specific roles.
Check out local community centers, pools, and summer camps.
Networking can help, so let friends and professional contacts know you’re looking.
Another job similar to this would be to become a lifeguard at a local pool.
8. Tour guide for local attractions
As a teacher, your ability to tell stories and lead can be very useful for a summer job as a tour guide. Your skill in explaining things well makes you a great choice to share history and local stories with visitors.
Check out jobs at museums, historical places, or become an ambassador for your city by guiding people to discover hidden treasures.
9. Pet care jobs
If you’re a teacher who loves animals, you may want to look into summer jobs in pet care, like being a dog walker or pet sitter. Your caring skills can easily transition to taking good care of furry friends while students are on break.
Rover is a website that connects pet owners with pet sitters and dog walkers. You can choose to do this job on weekends throughout the year or only open your schedule during the summer months – it’s your choice.
Starting on Rover is simple – you create a profile sharing your experience with pets and the services you can offer, such as dog walking, pet sitting, and house sitting.
After that, customers will send you requests, and you can discuss pricing. Rover handles the payment process, and you’ll get paid directly into your account.
Recommended reading: 7 Best Dog Walking Apps To Make Extra Money
10. Test prep instructor
As a teacher, your knowledge of academic subjects is very helpful, especially in the summer. Becoming a test prep instructor can be a great chance to help students in getting ready for their exams and earn extra money.
Test prep instructor jobs include subjects like math and English, and they cater to different education levels, from elementary school to college.
11. Sell your lesson plans
Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) is a website made just for educators to buy and sell educational items, and it’s a well-liked side hustle for teachers. If you’ve created lesson plans, worksheets, or other teaching tools for your class, you can share them on TPT and make some extra income.
The school year may be over for you, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t create and sell lesson plans – these are bought year-round!
You can sell:
Lesson plans and unit studies
Worksheets and printable activities
PowerPoint presentations and interactive notebooks
Posters, charts, and visual aids
On Teachers Pay Teachers, the typical teacher can earn around an extra $300 to $500. However, some teachers make hundreds of thousands of dollars extra each year.
12. Coach a school sport
If you love sports and you’re a teacher, coaching a school sport during the summer might be a great match for your skills and interests.
Coaching a school sport is a great option within your own school district, as many schools need help with their sports teams. You can try coaching sports like soccer, basketball, volleyball, and track and field. Additionally, there are opportunities with after-school clubs such as yearbook, chess, choir, and more that can be a teacher’s side hustle.
13. Run a dog bakery
Beginning a dog bakery can be an enjoyable side job for teachers who adore both dogs and baking. By creating treats for dogs such as cupcakes, cookies, cakes, and more, you can earn an additional $500 to $1,000, or even more, each month.
Recommended reading: How I Make $4,000 Per Month Baking Dog Treats (With Zero Baking Experience!).
14. Sell handmade goods on Etsy
Etsy is a popular online marketplace that connects makers and shoppers looking for unique handmade goods. If you’re a teacher with a creative side, this could be a great site for you to showcase and sell your crafts during the summer months.
Some examples of what you can sell on Etsy that are related to school include:
Educational games and activities
Educational materials like lesson planners and printable worksheets
Handcrafted classroom decorations or educational games
Personalized items such as bookmarks, nameplates, or tote bags
But, you don’t have to only sell teaching-related items. You can sell many other things such as furniture, clothing, jewelry, soap, home decor, and more.
15. Work at a restaurant
Many teachers work part-time or full-time at a restaurant during the summer as servers, hosts, bartenders, and kitchen staff.
Working in restaurants can fit teachers well since they have flexible hours that can match your open summer schedule, and you can leave the job easily once school resumes in the fall.
I know many, many people who have done this, and I would say this is one of the top summer jobs for teachers.
16. Proofread
As a teacher, you likely excel at proofreading and can easily catch mistakes. Using these skills, proofreading can be a fantastic side job. By proofreading, you can help authors, website owners, students, and others in their writing while earning extra income.
Even the best writers can overlook errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. That’s why having a proofreader can be helpful for nearly everyone.
You can usually set your own hours, which is perfect for the irregular schedules you might have.
10
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.
17. House sit
House sitting is a good option for teachers looking to make extra income during the summer months because a lot of people take vacations in the summer. As a house sitter, you are typically responsible for maintaining someone’s home while they are away. This can include watering plants, collecting mail, and making sure the house remains secure.
People hire house sitters to make sure their homes aren’t left empty, as a visible presence can discourage potential thefts.
To begin house sitting, you can join house-sitting websites to find gigs in your area or ask for referrals from friends and family. Starting with people you know for house-sitting and then using their references can expand your job search.
18. Blog
Blogging can be an enjoyable way for you, as a teacher, to earn extra money from home. Many teachers run blogs, and it makes sense – you can blog when you have free time, without sticking to a strict schedule.
To start your blog, first, pick a topic you’re passionate about, maybe something related to your teaching field or a hobby you enjoy. There are plenty of different niche ideas such as personal finance, travel, food, home, pets, and so much more.
You can earn money as a blogger through ways like:
Affiliate marketing – Share links to products or services related to your blog topic and earn a commission for sales made through your referral links.
Advertising – Add display ads or sponsored posts on your blog.
Courses and ebooks – Create courses or ebooks in your expertise area and sell them through your blog.
Learn more at How To Start A Blog FREE Course.
10
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.
19. Freelance writing
If you’re looking for remote summer jobs for teachers, then becoming a freelance writer can be a great option.
Freelance writers create content for blogs, websites, magazines, newspapers, advertising companies, and more. You can find writing jobs on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. Also, you can find clients independently by reaching out to websites you are interested in writing for.
I have been a freelance writer for years, and it all started as a side hustle. This is a great side hustle because you can choose to work as much or as little as you want, such as if you are only looking to do freelance writing in the summer months when you are not teaching at a school.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Beginner Freelance Writing Jobs
20. Transcribe
An online transcriptionist’s role involves listening to video or audio files and typing out the content they hear. Various types of transcriptionists exist, including legal, general, and medical transcriptionists.
This job demands solid typing and listening skills, and the flexibility to work from home on your schedule. Transcriptionists typically earn an average of $15 to $30 per hour.
This is another great side hustle because you can choose to work as much or as little as you want, such as if you are only looking to make extra money during the summer months.
I recommend signing up for FREE Workshop: Is a Career in Transcription Right for You? You’ll learn how to get started as a transcriptionist, how you can find transcription work, and more.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Beginner Online Transcription Jobs To Make $2,000 Monthly
10
In this free training, you will learn what transcription is, why it’s a highly in-demand skill, who hires transcriptionists, how to become a transcriptionist, and more.
21. Rent out an unused room in your home
If you have a spare room in your house, you might want to try renting it out over the summer. Platforms such as Airbnb or Vrbo make it easy for you.
I have rented out rooms to others in the past, and it has been a great way to make extra money. If you live in a touristy area, this could even be a gig that you only do in the summers and earn enough to cover your bills or at least pay for some of them.
22. Rent your garage space
If you have available storage space like a garage, driveway, closet, basement, or attic, you might consider renting it out to make extra money. This can be a profitable side hustle without requiring much of your spare time.
Neighbor is a platform where you can list your extra space for rent and potentially earn up to $15,000 per year.
This is a gig that may take up more than just your summer because typically people may store their stuff more long-term. But, you may find some people who only need to store things a few months at a time or perhaps you can also try to turn this into a year-round side hustle.
Recommended reading: Neighbor Review: Make Money Renting Your Storage Space
10
You can use this website to list your unused space for rent and make up to $15,000 per year by doing so. With Neighbor, you can rent out your garage, driveway, basement, parking lot, shed, warehouse, carport, attic, street parking, or even a closet.
23. Teach English as a second language
If you’re a teacher looking for a seasonal opportunity, teaching English as a second language (ESL) during the summer can be a rewarding experience.
Many institutions are looking to hire for ESL teaching jobs, ranging from local schools to international language camps and online platforms. Here’s how you can get started and what you might expect:
Typically, ESL teachers need a bachelor’s degree and a teaching credential like TEFL (teaching English as a foreign language) certification. Some positions abroad might have additional requirements.
24. Answer online surveys
If you’re looking for a flexible way to earn extra cash during the summer, answering online surveys could be a great fit. Companies are always in search of genuine feedback to improve their products or services, and your opinions are valuable.
Now, this won’t be a full-time job, but you share your thoughts and can make extra money or free gift cards on your own schedule.
The survey companies I recommend are:
Swagbucks
User Interviews – These are the highest paying surveys with the average being around $60 for an hour of your time.
Branded Surveys
American Consumer Opinion
Pinecone Research
PrizeRebel
InboxDollars
Recommended reading: 18 Best Paid Survey Sites To Make $100+ Per Month
10
User Interviews pays very well for market research studies and these are some of the highest paying online surveys, with each paying $50 to $100 or more. The average pays over $60.
25. Mystery shop
Companies hire mystery shoppers to gain insights into their customers’ experiences. They seek genuine opinions on products, feedback on customer treatment, evaluations of phone call interactions, and more. Mystery shoppers play a key role in providing valuable feedback to companies.
This is a great summer side hustle for teachers because you can simply pick up mystery shopping jobs when you need them. So, it’s completely okay and normal to only accept jobs during the summer.
Here’s what mystery shoppers do:
Visit businesses anonymously.
Complete specific tasks, such as purchasing a product or asking questions.
Record your observations.
Provide a detailed report on your experience.
I have done many secret shopping jobs over the years, and I often got mystery shops that provided me with $100 to cover a free dinner.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Mystery Shopper
26. Find gigs on Craigslist
Craigslist can be a goldmine for finding great summer jobs for teachers. It’s a site where individuals and businesses post quick jobs to make extra money.
You can find these gigs by going to the Craigslist website for your city or area. Right on the home page, you’ll spot a section labeled “Gigs.” This is where short-term job offers are posted, ranging from labor-intensive tasks to more skill-specific roles.
Here are some jobs I have found in the past on Craigslist:
Moving boxes to a new house
Deep cleaning a home
Putting together new furniture out of a box
Taking down a shed in a backyard
Handyman
Movie extra
Event parking help
27. Deliver groceries with Instacart
If you’re a teacher looking for flexible summer jobs for teachers, try delivering groceries with Instacart.
Grocery delivery services, like Instacart, are in demand as more people prefer having someone else do their grocery shopping.
Becoming a personal grocery shopper with services like Instacart can earn you an average of $15 to $20 per hour for delivering groceries. You’re paid per order, and you get to keep 100% of your tips. The flexibility allows teachers to choose their schedules, working in the evenings, on weekends, or even exclusively during the summer.
Recommended reading: Instacart Shopper Review: How much do Instacart Shoppers earn?
9
Instacart is a popular website for people looking to earn extra money shopping for and delivering groceries. Instacart gives you the option to turn your free time into a chance to make some extra money.
28. Real estate agent
If you’re a teacher looking for a productive way to spend your summer months, you may consider becoming a real estate agent.
Some teachers work as real estate agents alongside their full-time teaching jobs. This is possible because you can list and sell homes during weekends, breaks, evenings, and over the summer.
However, selling homes may have some challenges, as clients may occasionally require your full attention during the day, and you might be occupied with teaching. This is something to consider before getting into real estate as a side job.
29. Virtual assistant
If you’re a teacher looking for a flexible summer job that pays well, becoming a virtual assistant (VA) could be a perfect fit. As a VA, you can use your organizational skills and attention to detail to help businesses and entrepreneurs from the comfort of your home.
Some examples of what a VA does include:
Email management – Keep inboxes organized and respond to emails on behalf of your clients.
Scheduling – Manage calendars, arrange meetings, and send reminders.
File organization – Keep digital files in order using online tools like Google Drive or Dropbox.
Recommended reading: Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs
30. Drive for Uber or Lyft
Driving for Uber or Lyft can give you a flexible way to earn money during your summer break.
You get to set your own hours and work as much or as little as you desire, meaning you can align this job with your summer plans.
31. Library assistant
As a teacher, your skills are a natural fit for a summer position as a library assistant. Libraries often seek additional staff during the summer months, providing a great opportunity for you to engage in a role that supports literacy and learning in a calm environment.
Your job may include doing things such as:
Organizing books – Keeping the library orderly and materials easy to access
Circulation desk duties – Checking books in and out for people
Helping library users – Helping visitors find books and resources, and answering inquiries
You can simply contact libraries near you to see if they are hiring.
32. Driver’s ed teacher
Teaching driving lessons to teenagers and adults is a popular side hustle for teachers. If you’re interested, you can check if the high school near you needs a teacher for this subject. Alternatively, reach out to a local driving school to inquire about potential teaching opportunities.
Driving instructors make around $20 an hour more or less, depending on where you live.
Back when I was in high school, I actually took my driver’s ed course at my high school in the summer. It was an easy summer credit, and I also got a discount on my car insurance. One of the teachers taught this course and it seemed fairly easy (other than having to deal with a bunch of us high school students over the summer who were wanting to learn how to drive, ha!).
33. Babysitting
Babysitting can be a side job for teachers, and depending on your location, you might earn around $15 to $25 per hour. Parents tend to prefer hiring teachers as babysitters due to their extensive experience with children.
Becoming a babysitter can be a great way to make extra money in the summer as well, as you can choose to sign up for babysitting jobs that are only during this time.
Plus, many families need extra help during the summer because school is not in session, but the parents still have to work. That is where you come in!
Another job similar to this would be elderly companion care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about finding summer jobs for teachers.
Do teachers still make money during the summer?
Yes, many teachers do receive income during the summer, especially if their annual salary is distributed over 12 months. However, if you’re paid only for the months you work, looking for summer employment can supplement your income during this period. Not all teachers have summer gigs, but those who want to make income in addition to their teacher salaries may try to find something in the summer.
What is the best summer job for a teacher?
The best summer job for a teacher often capitalizes on their skill set. Positions like tutoring, educational program coordination, or teaching summer school are highly relevant options. Teachers might also consider roles in curriculum development or educational content creation.
What jobs exist for substitute teachers looking for summer employment?
Substitute teachers can find summer jobs in other educational roles, such as tutoring, mentoring, or working in summer camps. Many community centers and educational institutions also look for qualified professionals to lead summer workshops or help with childcare programs.
What are some summer jobs for teachers from home?
Teachers looking for summer jobs from home can find opportunities such as online tutoring or virtual summer school teaching. Other side gig ideas include writing content for websites, blogging, transcribing, and more.
Best Summer Jobs for Teachers – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best summer jobs for teachers.
As you can see, there are many ways to make extra money over your summer vacation.
Teachers have lots of options during the summer. They can stick with education by teaching summer school or tutoring. Or, they can try something new like being a camp counselor or giving local tours.
Teachers who like trying out new things might sell educational printables, sell things for profit, or sell services like pet care or freelance writing.
What do you think are the best jobs for teachers in the summer?
In AD PRO’s monthly Having a Moment column, AD senior design editor Hannah Martin reports as a weathervane for fads big and small, documenting the patterns and home decor trends she’s clocked in the pages of AD and beyond. Here, enjoy a look back at 2023’s most defining moments.
From nostalgic styles making a comeback to innovative responses to how we live today, there were many stand-out moments in the world of interior design this year. Reviewing them retrospectively, the selections sum up the past year’s tentpole memories—from the design fair debuts we’re still thinking about to the interiors that will inspire well into the new year. Before diving into the design forecasts and color predictions for 2024, take a minute to reflect on the home decor trends that ruled interiors this year.
Forget the subtlety of travertine (last year’s surface du jour) or the always-in elegance of snow-white Carrara. This year was all about an eye-popping specimen—strong veining, unusual colors, and (for the ultra-daring) perhaps a graphic mix of both. Surfaces need not blend into the background; they can say something too. Let’s call it personality marble—that essential dose of pattern that can make any interior pop. Take, for instance, the freestanding onyx bar Roman and Williams turned into a showstopping moment in Gwyneth Paltrow’s Montecito living room, or the all-over marble bathroom of Tinder founder Sean Rad and his wife, Lizzie Grover Rad, conjured by designer Jane Hallworth. Consider it a new kind of conversation piece for the home.
Jaxx Red Marble Side Table
“With a rise in midcentury-modern home remodels and an increased nostalgia for retro furnishings, we’re seeing more customers favoring color,” says Alyssa Wilterdink, senior marketing manager at Kohler, which relaunched a duo of vintage hues for its plumbing fixtures in honor of the American manufacturer’s 150th anniversary this year. Designers are indeed leaning in: Virginia Tupker recently ordered custom colored Water Monopoly sinks in pale pink and blue for a family home in Connecticut; color fiend Frances Merrill installed a cobalt blue sink in the powder room of a Cape Ann, Massachusetts, home; and designer Oliver M. Furth opted for a vintage pink toilet from Kohler for artist Mary Wetherford’s midcentury-modern abode in LA.
Lookin’ Good Shower Set
This year, we witnessed a surge in designers adding color, pattern, and artistic flair to their projects with hand-painted tile. “I’ll tile just about anything,” says interior designer Jessica Jubelirer, who applied the treatment to the hearth, the bathrooms, the baseboards, and, most memorably, inset in the closet doors in a lakeside Wisconsin family home. Meanwhile, in a historic Connecticut family home designed by Virginia Tupker, Delft and Portuguese tiles create a sort of wainscoting in the entryway and bathrooms, as well as fireplace surrounds. In the kitchen of that project, hand-painted tile adds a splash of pattern (drawn from a William Morris motif) as a backsplash. Practical and durable with an artisan flair, hand-painted tile adds visual interest wherever needed. Adds Jubilerer: “Kitchens, bathrooms, and fireplaces can all benefit from its practicality and beauty.”
São Dinis 88 Portuguese Tile
This spring’s design fair circuit hinted at a return to the industrial minimalism, high-tech style of the ’70s and ’80s—an industrial revolution of the interior, if you will. In April we returned from Milan with notes about a minimalism resurgence, with a particular emphasis on industrial materials. Knoll had reissued some of high-tech star Joe D’Urso’s super-adaptable and sleek low tables from the ’80s. Ledongil Workshop’s experimental lighting and furnishings, on display at Ordet gallery, felt like an elevated take on track lighting. And at Drop City, designer Daisuke Yamamoto showcased a collection of clean-lined chairs made of the most frequently trashed construction material: lightweight gauge steel. Indeed, industrial materials and minimalist silhouettes were the protagonists of this year’s debuts.
Hector Small Dome Clip Light
“We’re blowing the dust off moire,” says Raffaele Fabrizio, creative director of Dedar, while showing off the Italian fabric house’s newly expanded Amoir Libre textile. Cue the ripple effect. As of late, a handful of brands and interior designers have redirected their gaze to the historic textile that oozes opulence, repackaging it for today’s quiet luxury. Interior designer Sophie Ashby, who recently wrapped a dressing room in a pale pink Dedar moire, praises the home decor trend for its ability to expand space: “When used in the right way it can really enhance a space, enveloping the interior with tactility whilst also subtly playing with light to make smaller spaces—such as dressing rooms or hidden nooks—appear larger.”
Quadratic Rug in Burgundy by Objects of Common Interest for CC-Tapis
Before there was photography, botanists—or anyone wishing to document flora—created detailed illustrations, known as botanical studies, intended to convey the plant’s physical appearance and other qualities. Unsurprisingly, such botanical studies have long been used to decorate. Lately, the botanical studies trend—a longtime hallmark of traditional, even preppy interiors—is blooming anew. In Lauren Dupont’s Connecticut home, designed by Stephen Sills, a pair of antique botanical prints purchased at auction hang in her dressing room, and in her Palm Beach kitchen, Aerin Lauder mounted a grid of floral prints in the service pantry. Sure, there’s nothing innately groundbreaking about florals when it comes to home decor trends, but perhaps that’s just what gives them eternal life.
Nasturtium Wall Tray
In the bedroom, gone are the piles of decorative pillows and fussy, overstuffed duvets. Back is a simple coverlet that is perfectly happy not to take center stage. You know this super-simple look: a flat coverlet is laid across the bed, folded down a little at the top, and then back over a pair of standard pillows. “It always felt a bit traditional and almost religious,” says Colin King, the stylist and longtime AD contributor, who favors the minimalist bed. “It’s clean and tidy, simple but elegant. It gives the room the feeling you want your bedroom to have—serenity.” The back-to-basics look has been spotted in a restored Brooklyn Heights apartment by Augusta Hoffman, John Legend and Chrissy Teigen’s California bedroom designed by Jake Arnold, and Andre Mellone’s Manhattan sleeping quarters too.
Repose Heavyweight Bedcover
In Germany and Austria between 1815 and 1850, when the Napoleonic wars had ended and a burgeoning middle class emerged, a new style of furniture was created to suit their needs: streamlined versions of more opulent Empire furniture, characterized by strong lines, warm local woods, and simplified shapes—though, notably, not totally stripped of ornament. Biedermeier furniture, as it would later be named, has regained appeal in contemporary interiors for its chameleon qualities. It brings a calculated hit of classicism to a cool, minimalist interior, but it can deliver streamlined modernity to one that is layered and super decorated. These days, says Campbell-Rey’s Charlotte Rey, it’s all about the mix: “It is important to not be afraid to mix them with color and other periods. Perhaps you place a Memphis Milano lamp on top of a Biedermeier sideboard? Being too respectful can make it feel overly polite.”
Now that we’ve been working from home for a while, everyone has more or less figured out what works. But there are still a few basic pieces of Zoom etiquette that people need to master.
Whether you’re hosting a video call or attending one, here are some Zoom etiquette tips to keep you from being “that guy” on your calls.
1. Mind the background noise
Be mindful of the background noise on your end. Things you might have grown accustomed to and don’t notice are noisy and distracting for those on a Zoom call with you.
Think about appliances that are running, like the dishwasher, washing machine and dryer, and fans and HVAC units can make noticeable noise. Consider either turning them off or moving well away from them during your call.
And one of the most obvious, yet overlooked, pieces of advice is to close the door while on a call. If you’re working where other people live or work, a closed door is a respectful signal to not bother you and keep noises from outside the room from being heard.
2. Clean up your background
What’s going on behind you during calls? Can others see cars passing by the street through your front window or the sink full of dirty dishes in your kitchen? Your visible background can say a lot about you and leaves an impression on Zoom calls. Try to keep a neutral background when possible and keep it clean so you don’t show off your messes.
Zoom does offer virtual background options, but unless you’re desperate, try not to use it all the time. Virtual backgrounds are fun and quirky at times, but they can create distrust or seem improper if overused. It’s alright to use them in an emergency when you’ve got a couch full of laundry behind you, but if it’s not necessary, it’s best to let everyone see you in your work environment at home.
As a word of warning, it’s appropriate to show everyone where you’re working in your home, but do it with caution! Yes, your bed is comfortable, but do you really want people seeing your bedroom? Instead, try setting up your camera in such a way that it doesn’t look like you’re lounging in your bedroom, like positioning yourself so only a wall is visible.
3. Check the lighting
Especially when working in a small space, lighting is challenging. An overhead light can create harsh or awkward shadows on your face. Natural light always shows up best through your webcam, but if you don’t have natural light that adequately highlights your face, you might want to consider alternative options like a ring light.
4. Use a dedicated office space
It’s important to have a specific office area in your home in general, but it’s especially helpful for taking calls. It can help you minimize distractions and avoid potential mishaps.
If you’re always taking calls from the same spot, you’ll know what parts of your house show in the background, how to minimize noise and adjust lighting and keep messes and distracting items out of the way. Or, if you have a pet, consider having a bed next to your Zoom location, so they know there’s a place for them and won’t jump into your lap mid-call.
5. Dress to impress
When you’re at home and have your closet only steps away, it’s tempting to change into comfortable clothes for work. When on camera, it’s best to have slightly more professional attire. This doesn’t mean you need to wear a suit and tie or a dress, but it’s best to put on something other than your sweats and an old hoodie. Try setting timers a few minutes before calls so you know when to change.
And just because people are only seeing the top half of your body doesn’t mean you should skip the pants — we all know that some Zoomers are flying fast and loose with pants, which is a dangerous game to play. If for some reason you do need to stand up or move during your meeting, you don’t want everyone seeing your unmentionables in a professional environment.
6. Watch the chat
Zoom’s chat function is a great tool for sending comments while other people are speaking and for sharing links. Sometimes, these comments are important or someone is sharing a link to a document you need to view. Check the chat throughout your meeting so you aren’t completely lost and others don’t think you weren’t paying attention.
7. Mute yourself
Even if there’s no background noise where you’re working, mute yourself when you’re not speaking. Unexpected things happen, like a doorbell ringing or noise you’re unaware of.
8. Turn off your camera when appropriate
While it’s nice to show everyone your face, turning off your camera is sometimes appropriate. If you’re getting up from your desk to grab something from another room, turn off your video. Seeing someone get up and leave for a minute may cause others to wonder what’s going on, and it can distract from the actual meeting at hand.
Or, if you’re moving yourself during the call from one room to another, you should also turn off your video. Your coworkers don’t need to feel like they’re on a roller coaster or traveling through hyperspace while you’re walking through your home.
Finally, turn off the camera if you’re eating, even if it’s just a quick snack. It’s poor Zoom etiquette and, frankly, gross to others if you’re eating while on a call.
9. Be careful while screen sharing
We’ve all had someone inadvertently show a confidential or personal message in a Zoom meeting, whether it was via notifications or poor planning when sharing their screen.
If you’re showing your screen to others on a call, make sure the screen you share is free from messaging platforms or other irrelevant windows. It’s also smart to mute your notifications while screen sharing, too. If you have difficulty remembering to turn off your notifications, try installing something like Muzzle that will silence your notifications for you when you share a screen.
10. Look into the camera
Many of us are using more than one monitor and are on a zoom call while viewing other documents on different screens. Even if what you’re viewing on another screen is relevant to the meeting, it’s better to look into the camera so people know you’re actively present in the meeting and not distracted.
11. Test video, microphone beforehand
Do a quick test of your audio and video before your meeting starts. It only takes a minute or two and can help you avoid awkward moments of realizing you have a mess behind you or wasting time at the beginning of the call to figure out why the sound isn’t working.
12. Use reactions
Zoom has a few reactions you can use when you don’t want to unmute yourself or make too much noise. These are emojis that you can click that will show on your video window for a few seconds. It’s much easier when you have a large meeting to show you understand something by giving a visual “thumbs up,” rather than verbally saying “I got it” and everyone wondering who said what.
13. Try multiple windows
In your Zoom settings, you can set it to display on two windows. This is especially helpful for meetings where people are sharing a screen because you can see the gallery view for people’s faces, as well as a screen share. That means no more scrolling through everyone on the top or side of the screen during calls!
14. Ask for permission to record
One of the greatest benefits of using Zoom for meetings is that you can record entire meetings and refer back to them later or send them to people who couldn’t attend. But, before you hit the button to record, make sure you’ve asked those in the meeting if it’s OK. Chances are, everyone will be fine with it, but it’s still good Zoom etiquette to ask so that others are aware.
15. Beware of taking calls from your patio
When the weather is good, it’s nice to take calls from outside. When you’re working from your balcony or patio, be aware of your noise level as neighbors might have opened windows to let fresh air in and they can hear you. This is bothersome to the neighbors who are trying to work or take calls themselves, and it could give away information about your company that shouldn’t be shared.
You should also monitor the noise in your background. It’s relaxing to hear birds chirping or feel a breeze, but it’s annoying to everyone else on your Zoom call.
16. Take precautions with common areas
Whether you’re in a conference room, business center or other shared common space, take precautions and be considerate of those around you. That means practicing social distancing, wearing a mask and being as quiet as possible — including when using the printer and coffee machine. No one wants to be interrupted in their meeting by someone printing out a 100-page document nearby.
Practice good Zoom etiquette
Most of us have had something unexpected happen during a Zoom call — and that’s OK! The great part about this pandemic is that it has shown us we’re all human. Even the CEO of the big company is dealing with pets, unexpected doorbells or visits from their little ones while they’re working. Life happens.
That being said, it’s still a work environment and we want to avoid being too unprofessional. Be conscious of Zoom etiquette and you’ll (hopefully) avoid being the distraction during calls!
While we firmly believe that home is where the heart is, we also know that unnecessary clutter and disjointed decor can encourage chaos rather than comfort in our most treasured spaces. The first step of any home improvement is to declutter your existing collection of items and decor, choose which items deserve a spot in your updated space, and then immediately get rid of the excess stuff.
Once you’ve cleaned out your existing collection, create an attainable mood board of your ideas, colors, decor pieces, and furniture that will best reflect your goals for that space. Once you decide on your home aesthetic, you can begin shopping and then staging your home!
Finding an aesthetic that inspires your best self isn’t as difficult as it may sound! We’ve compiled a list of popular home decor styles that are easily integrated into your home – big or small. If you’re looking for more ideas, check out this article on last year’s major trends.
Let’s get into it!
Evie’s product selections are curated by the editorial team. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love.
Coquette
Love the frills of the coquette aesthetic? We do too! This trending fashion aesthetic is an ultra feminine home decor style that is easy to put together – even if you aren’t an interior decorator. The color scheme of this aesthetic is pink and white, with an emphasis on bows, florals, and simplicity. If you want to fully commit to both the style and home decor aesthetics, your beauty products can double as tabletop decor – display your fragrances and hair accessories as the focal point of the room.
Here are a few of our coquette picks to inspire your decor refresh!
Artfully Walls I Still Read Fairy Tales Wall Art, $158
UO Big Bow Comforter, $200
UO Home Heart Stemmed Bud Vase, $12
Eclectic Grandpa
The eclectic grandpa aesthetic has been trending on TikTok for a while, and the home decor inspo is a perfect combination of colors, patterns, and shapes that encourage the ultimate cozy living space. While you may not want to camp out on another trending aesthetic, this term is quite helpful in defining your search and describing your design goals before you revamp your space!
The eclectic grandpa aesthetic is essentially a muted version of your grandparents’ house, with an emphasis on bookshelves, dark wood, and vintage items. In a sense, the aesthetic is organized clutter with a muted color scheme and lots of greenery. To accomplish this decor look, you’ll need a variety of books (perfect items to thrift) as well as a central coffee table in your living room for eclectic items.
Need to add a few pieces to your home decor? Check out our picks!
Uma Fluted Glass Lamp, $68
UO Vinyl Record Storage Shelf, $119
The Terrain Houseplant Book, $35
Garden Party
Flowers are the original home decor piece, so creating a space that feels natural and inviting requires a floral emphasis. Play with different patterns that include one continuous shade, such as green, so your space reflects your favorite garden space. Shelf decor should include fresh flowers, and your wall decor can feature your favorite blooms in whatever art style you prefer!
Let’s update your garden decor with a few new pieces!
Artfully Walls Blushing Wall Art, $178
Nathalie Lete Embroidered Velvet Pillow, $78
UO Botanical Stemmed Wine Glass, $14
Anthropologie Eden Platter, $68
Modern Farmhouse
While the farmhouse home decor aesthetic has been popular for a while, there are plenty of ways to accomplish this soft, clean decor style without caving to outdated, millennial basics. To keep this decor style fresh, you’ll need to incorporate a variety of different textures into your space, as well as some simple patterns that will cohesively blend with the range of beige and white tones. Patterned wallpapers are a major decor trend this year, which add the perfect final touch to your home!
Ready to update your “sad beige” home into a modern cozy oasis?
Farrow Ball Closet Stripe Wallpaper, $225
Safavieh 24in Flora Seagrass Table Lamp, $60
Anthropologie Carved Wooden Cake Stand with Glass Dome, $38
Coastal Classic
If you’re holding on to the remnants of the coastal grandmother aesthetic, this coastal classic home decor aesthetic is an elevated way to design your space. Light blue will be the primary color focus of your decor, along with bright shades of white and a classic wood finish.
To avoid the instantly outdated components of this aesthetic, stay away from obvious artwork and decor elements that focus on ocean creatures. Shells, starfish, and boat shapes can be used in a classic way, but shouldn’t be the defining feature of your coastal classic home!
Need to add a few new coastal pieces to your living room? Check out these gorgeous items!
UO Toile Duvet Set, $100
Safavieh 26in Nissa Table Lamp, $70
Abrams Hardcover Coastal Blue Coffee Table Book, $40
Terrain Blue Floral Ceramic Vase Tall, $24
Elevated Preppy
Preppy home decor often invites the IG reels of sorority houses and dorm room decor to mind. However, there is an updated version of this bubbly pink and blue decor theme for your post-grad needs! The base of your home decor will be bright white (not beige), and the accents will feature pink and blue illustrations and objects. A white bed frame, bedspread, and bedside table create the perfect canvas for pink pillows, preppy artwork, and related items.
Here are a few fun home decor items to add to your collection!
Anthropologie Candace Mirror, $378
Balta 5X7 Covey Checkered Shag Rug, $70
Alja Horvat Yumi Cherry Tray, $59
Closing Thoughts
Choosing a home decor aesthetic is step one to enjoying your newly furnished place. Decorating your home should spark joy!
Support our cause and help women reclaim their femininity by subscribing today.