Navigating the complexities of procuring the best wholesale home decor supplies can occasionally prove to be a daunting task.
As a business, you strive to stock high-quality, distinctive and engaging items that pique the interest of your clientele. However, finding such unique and captivating products isn’t always a straightforward journey.
The quest for the right wholesale products necessitates a considerable amount of research, with a focus on sourcing high-quality items that don’t compromise on aesthetic appeal.
As challenging as this process might be, it is an essential step in ensuring your stock stands out in the competitive home decor market.
In this article, we aim to shed light on the process of finding top-tier home decor supplies. We will delve into the specifics of locating the right suppliers, who can provide a diverse range of intriguing home decor items.
Additionally, we’ll explore and highlight some of the leading home decor suppliers available in the industry today.
Small Business Deals
Whether you are a novice in the industry or a seasoned veteran looking to refresh your inventory, this guide promises to be a valuable resource in your business growth journey.
How to Find Home Decor Suppliers
In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of home decor, locating the ideal suppliers is a crucial task that requires a strategic approach and comprehensive consideration. Here, we delve into some pivotal tips that can serve as a guide in your quest for the perfect home decor suppliers.
Here are some tips:
Develop a strategy considering various sourcing channels to find home decor suppliers.
Look for suppliers that provide a broad array of product styles and regularly update their catalogs.
Consider working with multiple suppliers to diversify your offerings.
Begin your search using Google and explore other online marketplaces.
Assess potential suppliers based on the variety of products, pricing structure, and shipping options to your location.
Determine if the chosen supplier is the best fit for your business needs.
Review shipping policies: most suppliers offer free or discounted shipping based on order size, but always verify before finalizing the order.
12 Best Wholesale Home Décor Suppliers Selling Quality Products for Your Business
In order to assist with your search, we’ve compiled a list of some of the premier home decor suppliers in the market.
These suppliers stand out by providing extraordinary wholesale products, ranging from everyday home accessories to unique, statement decor pieces.
These handpicked items, chosen for their quality and uniqueness, are guaranteed to resonate with your customers, helping them transform their living spaces into a true reflection of their personal style and taste.
If you are starting a home staging business or already have one, these are great resources.
1. Faire
Faire is one of the best online marketplaces if you’re looking for wholesale farmhouse suppliers made by small businesses and companies. They have a huge selection of products, including wooden signs, table linens, tea towels, throw pillows, candles, coasters, collectibles, and other gift items. If you’re looking for truly unique products for your shop with a wide range of prices, Faire should be your first stop. It’s one of the best sites to find home decor items from all over the world, designed with love and integrity.
2. CTW Home Collection
CTW Home Collection sells farmhouse decor gifts and includes a large selection of new products to choose from. CTW Home Collection is also one of the best furniture wholesale suppliers as well, so you find a lot of different items to choose from. You’ll find fun products like lanterns, candle holders, tabletop items, and more in many different styles with cost-effective shipping options available.
3. Creative Co-Op
Perhaps a little less traditional than some of the other options on this list, Creative Co-Op is a one-stop shop if you’re looking for wholesale furniture suppliers and farmhouse wholesale suppliers. Their website has amazing products for resale, including stylish items and decorative accessories that have the potential to be a hit with customers.
4. Roux Brands
Roux Brands is known for its timeless and elegant wholesale selection. Their product selection includes gift items, wooden signs, home accessories, and much more. As a farmhouse wholesale supplier, Roux Brands offers a wide variety to choose from for retailers, such as fun decor items and party gifts.
5. KaemingK
If you’re seeking seasonal decor items for your shop or website, KaemingK might be the right choice for you. All their wholesale products are designed for the holiday season as decor items for the home. You’ll find Christmas decorations, Easter decorations, and general home decor on their website, with over 10,000 items to choose from.
6. ITEM International
For wholesale home decor such as wall decorations, throw pillows, tabletop decor, gifts, and a vast array of items you can sell, ITEM International has it all. They are both a farmhouse wholesale supplier and a wholesale furniture supplier, so there is plenty of variety to choose from for every kind of occasion to stock in your shop.
7. Benzara
Benzara is another wholesale product supplier with high-quality products for retailers. Benzara is also a wholesale furniture supplier alongside a farmhouse wholesale supplier, so there are a lot of new products to choose from. Shop many different styles all in one place, including unique decor items and a. variety of home decor items that will appeal to a wide demographic of shoppers.
8. Hill Interiors
Hill Interiors has a vast array of fab items perfect for home decor and suits every kind of style. You’ll find decor items for resale, including pillows, gifts, wooden signs, and many other items in their inventory. There are over 2,500 products that retailers can choose from, all designed with the latest trends in mind.
9. Light and Living
If you’re looking for both farmhouse decor and wholesale furniture suppliers, take a look at Light and Living. With a wide selection, quality products, and stylish home accessories, Light and Living has a lot of great options for resale. You can find items for your shop, including general home decor, statement pieces, and other accessories such as pillows, gift options, signs, and many more types of accessories.
10. Globe Imports
A Florida-based wholesale home decor supplier, Globe Imports, has a lot of great options on their site for a home decor store. Their inventory includes items ranging from furniture to garden accessories, gift items, and more. They also do themed collections such as coastal/beach, pirates, new age, and more, which can be a fun option to stock.
11. Kole Imports
If you’re looking for diverse product collections that are designed to be fun and interesting, Kole Imports is a very good choice. Their product catalog will get you excited for what you can stock in your store, ranging from smaller gift options to larger home decor accessories. There is a complete balance for retailers to select from, with a balance between functional home decor and more funny gift ideas.
12. Strade.Global
With Strade, sellers have a lot of options. You can choose to shop from their marketplace to find unique home decor items to sell, including rustic gifts, farmhouse decor, and more. If you are a manufacturer, you can join Strade.Global to have products found by other retailers. Additionally, Strade.Global also offers management services to online and brick-and-retailer shops to help boost profits and reduce some of the retailers’ workloads.
Supplier Name
Specialities
Notable Products/Services
Faire
Farmhouse decor from small businesses
Extensive product range
CTW Home Collection
Farmhouse decor and furniture
Wide product selection, cost-effective shipping
Creative Co-Op
Furniture and farmhouse decor
Stylish decorative accessories
Roux Brands
Elegant wholesale selection
Gift items, wooden signs, home accessories
KaemingK
Seasonal decor
Over 10,000 holiday decor items
ITEM International
Diverse decor and gifts
Farmhouse and furniture wholesale supplier
Benzara
Quality products for retailers
Diverse decor styles, wide product range
Hill Interiors
Diverse home decor
Over 2,500 products available
Light and Living
Farmhouse decor and furniture
Quality, stylish home accessories
Globe Imports
Themed collections
Furniture, garden accessories, gift items
Kole Imports
Diverse, fun product collections
Balance of small gift options and larger decor items
Strade.Global
Marketplace and management services
Options for sellers and manufacturers, management services for retailers
Wholesale Home Decor Market Trends
The home decor market is constantly evolving, with trends shifting from season to season. Staying abreast of these trends is crucial for businesses looking to captivate customers.
Current trends include sustainable and eco-friendly products, minimalist designs, and bold, statement pieces that reflect personal style. Keeping an eye on these trends helps in selecting products that resonate with contemporary consumer preferences.
Evaluating Quality and Sustainability
Quality and sustainability are key factors in the home decor industry. When choosing suppliers, consider the materials used, the craftsmanship, and the environmental impact of the products.
Suppliers committed to sustainable practices not only add value to your inventory but also appeal to eco-conscious consumers, a growing demographic in the home decor market.
Building Relationships with Suppliers
Fostering strong relationships with your suppliers can lead to better pricing, understanding of inventory cycles, and exclusive access to new products. Regular communication, timely payments, and clear contract terms are essential in building and maintaining these relationships.
A reliable partnership with your suppliers ensures a steady flow of quality products and can provide you with a competitive edge.
Importance of a Unique and Diverse Product Selection
A diverse product selection caters to a wider customer base and sets your business apart from competitors. Look for suppliers offering unique items that reflect various styles and tastes. A mix of traditional, modern, and eclectic decor pieces can attract different customer segments, enhancing the appeal of your inventory.
Tips for Effective Inventory Management
Effective inventory management is crucial when dealing with multiple suppliers. Utilize inventory management software to track stock levels, sales patterns, and reorder times. This helps in maintaining an optimal inventory level, reducing the risk of overstocking, and ensuring a fresh and varied product range for your customers.
Implement a Just-in-Time (JIT) Inventory System: Aim to order stock close to when it’s actually needed to reduce holding costs and avoid overstocking.
Regularly Review Stock Levels: Conduct frequent audits of your inventory to identify fast-moving items and adjust order quantities accordingly.
Utilize Inventory Management Software: Invest in software that provides real-time tracking and analysis of inventory levels, sales trends, and reorder points.
Categorize Inventory: Classify your inventory into categories based on sales velocity, value, and seasonality to prioritize and manage stock more efficiently.
Set Par Levels: Establish minimum stock levels for each product to simplify reordering decisions and prevent stockouts.
Optimize Warehouse Layout: Arrange your warehouse in a way that maximizes efficiency in storing and retrieving items, and reduces handling time.
Train Staff on Inventory Practices: Ensure your team understands the importance of inventory management and is trained in best practices.
Leverage Supplier Relationships: Collaborate with suppliers for bulk discounts, better payment terms, or consignment options to optimize inventory costs.
Track Sales and Forecast Demand: Analyze sales data and seasonal trends to accurately forecast demand and adjust inventory levels accordingly.
Implement a Returns Management System: Efficiently handle returned goods to ensure they are quickly restocked or disposed of, keeping your inventory accurate.
Use Barcode or RFID Systems: Implement barcode or RFID scanning to improve accuracy in tracking inventory movements and reduce manual errors.
Consider Dropshipping for Certain Products: For items that are rarely sold, consider a dropshipping arrangement to eliminate the need to hold these items in stock.
Leveraging Technology in Wholesale Purchasing
Technology can significantly streamline the wholesale purchasing process. From online ordering systems to real-time inventory management tools, technological solutions can save time and reduce errors. Embracing these tools can lead to more efficient operations, better customer service, and improved profitability.
Marketing Strategies for Home Decor Retailers
Effective marketing is key to the success of a home decor business. Utilize social media platforms, email marketing, and an engaging online presence to showcase your products. In-store displays, seasonal promotions, and collaborations with interior designers can also enhance visibility and attract customers.
Navigating Shipping and Handling Challenges
Shipping and handling large or fragile home decor items can be challenging. Work closely with your suppliers to understand their packaging methods and shipping policies. Consider offering shipping insurance and ensure that your logistics partners are equipped to handle delicate items safely.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Be aware of the legal and regulatory considerations in your region, such as safety standards, import regulations, and consumer protection laws. Compliance with these regulations is crucial to avoid legal complications and ensure customer safety.
Exploring Global vs. Local Suppliers
Consider the pros and cons of sourcing from global versus local suppliers. While global suppliers may offer a wider range of products at competitive prices, local suppliers can provide faster shipping, lower freight costs, and opportunities for supporting the local economy.
The Future Outlook of Wholesale Home Decor
In conclusion, finding the right wholesale home decor suppliers involves a blend of trend awareness, quality evaluation, and strategic relationship building. As the market continues to evolve, staying informed about future trends and consumer preferences will be key to the success and growth of your home decor business.
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Home » Make Money » What is Stan Store?
Written By:
Edited By:
Updated: January 9, 2024
6 Min Read
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Initially, when my wife introduced me to Stan Store, I wasn’t impressed.
It seemed illogical to pay $30 a month for software that just offered a basic sales page, especially without any integrated email service provider.
This was a stark contrast to my experience with platforms like ConvertKit, where I started with a free account until my subscriber count grew large enough where I had to pay.
As I spent more time with Stan Store, my perspective began to shift. I realized that for someone completely new to online marketing, who might be overwhelmed by the complexities of building and creating a landing or sales page, Stan Store could actually make a lot of sense.
It’s tailored for beginners, offering them a straightforward entry point into the world of digital marketing.
Who is Stan Store For?
So, who’s going to love Stan Store? Pretty much anyone aiming to make a buck online through digital products or services. If you’re like me, trying to turn those ‘link in bio’ clicks into actual sales, then Stan Store is your go-to.
Let me break it down for you. Stan Store is a hit with a wide range of creators and businesses, but from my experience, it’s a total game-changer for:
Content Creators, Influencers, Micro-influencers, and UGC Creators
Instagrammers, TikTokers, YouTubers, X’rs
Online Coaches, Mentors, and Teachers
Digital Product Creators (Etsy, you’ve got competition)
Social Media Managers and Content Managers
Designers, Freelancers, and Small Digital Businesses
And hey, even if you’re in the business of selling physical goods, Stan Store can be a killer tool for growing your email list or hosting online events.
Just a heads up though – selling physical products directly through Stan Store isn’t on the table just yet.
How Does Stan Store Work?
Picture this: I’m on TikTok or Instagram Stories, chatting about my latest digital product – let’s say it’s an eBook or a PDF.
In the past, I’d direct my followers to the ‘link in my bio’, which would then send them off to another site, like my website. There, they’d have to play detective to find the product I was talking about, or sit through endless page loads.
But with Stan Store, things get a whole lot smoother. The ‘link in my bio’ is now the store itself. Followers can hit that link, buy what they want right there and then, without being shunted off to a different site.
The best part? They can hop right back to Instagram or TikTok without feeling like they ever left. It’s all about keeping it simple and seamless – and that’s what Stan Store nails perfectly.
Here’s a screenshot of my wife’s personal Stan Store:
We’re still not a big fan of their email signup process so for now our opt-in page (squeeze page) is hosted on Kajabi.
But my wife is selling our Digital Product Quickstart Guide on Stan Store. Here’s how the sales page looks:
Behind the scenes of our sales page is a payment processor and the ability to deliver the digital product with ease. That’s what makes Stan Store so attractive. You can literally start selling your very own digital product in a matter of minutes.
Why Stan Store Stands Out
What truly sets Stan Store apart is its efficiency – you can begin selling your own digital products in just a matter of minutes.
Stan Store Features Overview
Stan Store is packed with features designed to make the life of a digital creator easier and more profitable. Whether you’re a coach, influencer, or digital product creator, here’s what Stan Store brings to the table:
Mobile & Desktop Optimized Store: Your store looks great and works seamlessly on any device, ensuring a smooth shopping experience for your audience.
Calendar Invites & Bookings Product: Easily manage appointments and bookings directly through your store.
Analytics: Get insights into your store’s performance to make data-driven decisions.
Unlimited Course Products: Offer as many courses as you like, with no restrictions.
1-Tap Checkout: A streamlined checkout process that makes purchasing a breeze for your customers.
Recurring Subscription Products: Ideal for memberships and ongoing services, this feature allows for regular income.
Audience/Newsletter Builder: Grow your audience and keep them engaged with integrated newsletter tools.
Stan Store Plans: Creator vs. Creator Pro
Creator Plan
The Creator plan, priced at $29 per month (or $300 per year with a 20% discount), is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to jumpstart their online business. It includes all the essential tools you need:
Mobile & Desktop Optimized Store
Calendar Invites & Bookings Product
Analytics
Unlimited Course Products
1-Tap Checkout
Recurring Subscription Products
Audience/Newsletter Builder
This plan is perfect for creators who are just beginning to monetize their online presence and need a comprehensive, yet straightforward set of tools to get started.
Creator Pro Plan
For those ready to take their business to the next level, the Creator Pro plan is available at $99 per month (or $948 per year with a 20% discount). It includes everything in the Creator plan, plus advanced features for optimizing conversions and offering more to your customers:
Advanced Pricing & Payment Plans
Discount Codes
Limit Quantity
Payment Plans
Order Bumps & Upsells
Funnel Builder
Affiliate Share Feature
Email Marketing
The Creator Pro plan is tailored for creators who are looking to expand their offerings, optimize their sales process, and engage more deeply with their audience.
Benefits of Using Stan Store
Convenience and Accessibility
The convenience and accessibility of Stan Store are what eventually changed my initial skepticism. The platform allows anyone, regardless of their technical skill, to quickly set up a landing or sales page.
This ease of use is a crucial factor for many users, especially those who lack the time or technical expertise to navigate more complex systems.
Competitive Pricing and Deals
The initial pricing, though seemingly high, is justified by the platform’s simplicity and effectiveness, particularly for its target audience – the absolute beginner in online marketing. The recent addition of an email service provider at a higher tier adds more value, making it a more comprehensive tool.
Drawbacks of Stan Store
Limitations in Product Availability
One of the criticisms I had of Stan Store was its limited range of features. While its simplicity is its strength, it also means that users looking for more advanced features might find Stan Store lacking. This limitation can be a significant drawback for users as their businesses and marketing skills evolve.
Stan Store Alternatives
In the journey of online entrepreneurship, it’s crucial to explore various platforms to see what aligns best with your business needs. While Stan Store has been a solid choice for me, I’ve also had experiences with other platforms worth mentioning:
Shopify: Shopify is a robust platform for creating online stores. It’s feature-rich and offers a lot of flexibility for those looking to build a detailed and extensive online shop.
WooCommerce: Ideal for WordPress users, WooCommerce seamlessly integrates with your existing site, transforming it into a fully functional e-commerce platform. It’s versatile but can be a bit complex, especially for beginners.
Etsy: Etsy is the go-to marketplace for unique, handmade, or vintage items. It’s less about building your own store and more about joining a vibrant, existing marketplace.
Teachable and Thinkific: Both are excellent for creating and selling online courses. They offer a range of tools tailored for educators and coaches, focusing on course creation and student engagement.
Gumroad: Simple and straightforward, Gumroad is perfect for independent creators selling digital products like books, music, or art directly to their audience.
Kajabi: Kajabi is an all-in-one platform offering tools for online courses, marketing, and website building. It’s ideal for those offering educational content and looking for a comprehensive solution.
Comparison Table: Stan Store vs. Alternatives
Feature/Platform
Stan Store
Shopify
WooCommerce
Etsy
Teachable/Thinkific
Gumroad
Kajabi
Customization
Moderate
High
High
Low
Moderate
Low
High
Ease of Use
High
Moderate
Moderate
High
High
High
Moderate
Target Audience
Creators
General Retail
WordPress Users
Artisans
Educators
Independent Creators
Educators/Marketers
Product Type
Digital
All Types
All Types
Handmade/Vintage
Courses
Digital Products
Courses/Marketing
Pricing Model
Subscription
Subscription
Free (Plugin)
Transaction Fees
Subscription
Transaction Fees
Subscription
This table gives a quick overview of how Stan Store compares with its alternatives in terms of customization, ease of use, target audience, product type, and pricing model. Each platform has its strengths, and the best choice depends on your specific business needs and goals.
Is Stan Store Worth it?
After diving deep into Stan Store and comparing it with its alternatives, the big question remains: Is Stan Store worth it? Based on my experience and the insights I’ve gathered, my answer leans towards a yes, especially for a specific audience.
Stan Store stands out for its sheer simplicity and focus on digital content creators. If you’re just starting out or find yourself overwhelmed by the complexities of more advanced platforms, Stan Store offers a welcoming and straightforward path. The ease of setting up a sales or landing page, combined with the platform’s focus on digital products, makes it an attractive option for creators who want to monetize their content without the hassle.
The pricing, initially a point of skepticism for me, actually makes sense when you consider the target audience and the features offered. For beginners and those not ready to navigate the complexities of platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce, Stan Store’s $29 monthly fee for the Creator plan is a reasonable investment.
And for those looking to scale up, the Creator Pro plan, despite its higher price, brings in advanced features that could justify the cost as your business grows. If you’re not sure Stan Store is a good fit, the 14-day free trial might be exactly what you need.
Bottom Line – Stan Store Honest Review
In conclusion, while Stan Store might not be the one-size-fits-all solution for every online entrepreneur, it certainly has carved out its niche. It’s a platform that understands and caters to the needs of digital content creators, making it a worthwhile consideration for those in its target demographic.
As with any tool, it’s about finding the right fit for your specific needs, and for many creators, Stan Store could be just that.
To try Stan Store for free, click here for a 14-day trial.
FAQ – FAQs- Stan Store Review
Stan Store is best suited for digital content creators, including online coaches, influencers, micro-influencers, UGC creators, and digital product creators. It’s also a great fit for anyone looking to streamline their ‘link in bio’ to convert followers into customers.
Stan Store seamlessly integrates with social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. The integration allows creators to direct their social media audience straight to their Stan Store via a ‘link in bio’, facilitating immediate purchases without leaving the social media app.
Stan Store is designed with simplicity in mind, making it extremely user-friendly for beginners. The platform’s intuitive interface allows for easy navigation and quick setup, even for those with little to no technical background.
Stan Store has two pricing plans: the Creator Plan at $29 per month or $300 annually, and the Creator Pro Plan at $99 per month or $948 annually, with each plan catering to different levels of business needs.
About the Author
Jeff Rose, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner™, founder of Good Financial Cents, and author of the personal finance book Soldier of Finance. He was a financial planner for 16+ years having founded, Alliance Wealth Management, a SEC Registered Investment Advisory firm, before selling it to focus on his passion – educating the masses on the importance of financial freedom through this blog, his podcast, and YouTube channel.
Jeff holds a Bachelors in Science in Finance and minor in Accounting from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. In addition to his CFP® designation, he also earned the marks of AAMS® – Accredited Asset Management Specialist – and CRPC® – Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor.
While a practicing financial advisor, Jeff was named to Investopedia’s distinguished list of Top 100 advisors (as high as #6) multiple times and CNBC’s Digital Advisory Council.
Jeff is an Iraqi combat veteran and served 9 years in the Army National Guard. His work is regularly featured in Forbes, Business Insider, Inc.com and Entrepreneur.
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Home » Make Money » Systeme.io Review
Written By:
Updated: January 8, 2024
5 Min Read
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GoodFinancialCents® partners with outside experts to ensure we are providing accurate financial content.
These reviewers are industry leaders and professional writers who regularly contribute to reputable publications such as the Wall Street Journal and The New York Times.
Our expert reviewers review our articles and recommend changes to ensure we are upholding our high standards for accuracy and professionalism.
Our expert reviewers hold advanced degrees and certifications and have years of experience with personal finances, retirement planning and investments.
Why You Can Trust GoodFinancialCents®
GoodFinancialCents® partners with outside experts to ensure we are providing accurate financial content.
These reviewers are industry leaders and professional writers who regularly contribute to reputable publications such as the Wall Street Journal and The New York Times.
Our expert reviewers review our articles and recommend changes to ensure we are upholding our high standards for accuracy and professionalism.
Our expert reviewers hold advanced degrees and certifications and have years of experience with personal finances, retirement planning and investments.
Systeme.io has emerged as a versatile tool in the digital marketing landscape, often met with initial skepticism due to its bold claim of being an all-encompassing, free platform. This skepticism is not uncommon; many assume that a free, all-in-one software solution might compromise on quality.
However, as experienced firsthand, Systeme.io defies these expectations, offering robust functionality that genuinely surprises new users.
The platform serves a multifaceted purpose, aiming to simplify the digital marketing process. It’s designed for entrepreneurs and businesses seeking an integrated solution for email marketing, sales funnels, website building, and more. The importance of such a tool lies in its ability to streamline various marketing tasks, which are often scattered across different platforms, into one cohesive system.
How Systeme.io Works
The user interface of Systeme.io is a standout feature, characterized by its user-friendly design. This ease of use is particularly appealing to those who are new to digital marketing tools. The interface is intuitive, making navigation and operation straightforward, which is a stark contrast to the often complex dashboards of similar tools.
At the core of Systeme.io are several key features that make it a comprehensive digital marketing solution. These include email marketing capabilities, sales funnel creation tools, a website builder, options for hosting membership sites, and affiliate program management.
Each of these features is designed to work seamlessly with the others, providing a unified experience. For instance, the email marketing service is notably efficient, rivaling established providers like ConvertKit, AWeber, and MailChimp, especially with its free subscription model that remains functional up to a certain point.
Features of Systeme.io
Email Marketing: Systeme.io’s email marketing tool is not just about sending emails. It allows you to segment your audience, create personalized email campaigns, and track the performance with detailed analytics. For instance, you can segment your audience based on their behavior, like those who clicked a specific link in your last email. This level of customization ensures that your messages are targeted and effective.
Sales Funnel Builder: The sales funnel builder is a standout feature. It’s not just about creating a sequence of pages; it’s about guiding your potential customers on a journey. You can set up a funnel that starts with a landing page, leads to a product page, and ends with a thank you page, all while tracking user behavior. The drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to design each step, and you can add elements like pop-ups or forms to capture leads.
Blogging and SEO: Systeme.io’s blogging platform is straightforward yet powerful. You can create SEO-friendly blog posts with ease, thanks to features like customizable URLs, meta tags, and integration with Google Analytics. This ensures that your content is not only engaging but also ranks well in search engine results.
Automation and Workflow: Automation in Systeme.io is about saving time and creating efficient processes. For example, you can set up an automation rule to send a welcome email to new subscribers or trigger a specific action when someone purchases a product. This feature simplifies complex marketing tasks, making it easier to manage large-scale campaigns.
Affiliate Program Management: With Systeme.io, you can run your own affiliate program. This means you can recruit affiliates, track their performance, and manage payouts all within the same platform. It’s an excellent way for businesses to expand their reach without a significant increase in marketing spend.
One of the most significant benefits of Systeme.io is its cost-effectiveness. The platform offers a surprising amount of functionality without any initial investment, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs and small businesses with limited budgets. This aspect was particularly striking, as it’s rare to find a platform that provides such a wide range of features for free.
Another major advantage is the all-in-one nature of Systeme.io. It eliminates the need for multiple subscriptions to different services, consolidating essential marketing tools into one platform. This not only simplifies the management of digital marketing activities but also ensures better integration and efficiency. The platform’s ease of use is a testament to its well-thought-out design, catering to users who may not have extensive experience in digital marketing.
Drawbacks of Systeme.io
Despite its many strengths, Systeme.io is not without its limitations. One notable drawback is the limited customization options. While it offers a range of templates and a user-friendly interface, users who desire more advanced customization may find the platform somewhat restrictive compared to more specialized software.
Scalability can also be a concern with Systeme.io. As businesses grow, their needs become more complex, and the platform may not be able to keep pace with these evolving requirements. This is particularly relevant for larger businesses or those with highly specialized needs. Additionally, while Systeme.io integrates well within its ecosystem, it may have limitations when it comes to integrating with external tools and services.
Systeme.io Pricing Structure
The pricing structure of Systeme.io is one of its most appealing aspects. The platform operates on a freemium model, offering significant functionality without any cost for up to 2000 contacts or email subscribers and three sales funnels. This approach allows users to thoroughly test and experience the platform before committing financially.
When compared to competitors, Systeme.io’s pricing is highly competitive. For instance, platforms like ClickFunnels offer powerful functionality but at a higher cost, typically starting at around $100 per month after a free trial. This can be a significant investment, especially for new entrepreneurs or small businesses. In contrast, Systeme.io’s paid plans, which provide access to a broader range of features, are more affordable, starting at less than $30 a month.
Comparative Analysis with Other Tools
To provide a broader perspective, let’s compare Systeme.io with other popular tools in the market:
Feature/System
Systeme.io
ClickFunnels
HubSpot
Kartra
Email Marketing
Advanced segmentation and automation
Basic email functionalities
Comprehensive email tools with CRM integration
Advanced automation and lead scoring
Sales Funnel Builder
Intuitive drag-and-drop builder
Highly customizable funnels
More focused on inbound marketing
Similar to ClickFunnels with added features
Blogging and SEO
Basic but effective SEO tools
Not a primary feature
Advanced SEO and content strategy tools
Limited blogging capabilities
Automation and Workflow
Simple automation rules
Complex automation capabilities
Extensive automation with CRM integration
Advanced automation but steeper learning curve
Affiliate Program Management
Integrated affiliate management
Available but less intuitive
Not a core feature
Robust affiliate management system
Pricing (Starting Plan)
Free plan available
$97/month
$45/month
$99/month
This comparison shows that while Systeme.io offers a comprehensive suite of tools at an affordable price, platforms like HubSpot and Kartra provide more advanced features in certain areas but at a higher cost. ClickFunnels, on the other hand, is more expensive but offers highly customizable funnel-building capabilities.
User Reviews and Testimonials
User reviews and testimonials play a crucial role in understanding the real-world effectiveness of Systeme.io. Many users have shared success stories, highlighting how the platform has helped them streamline their marketing efforts and grow their businesses. These positive experiences often emphasize the platform’s ease of use, comprehensive feature set, and excellent value for money.
However, it’s also important to consider critiques and common issues raised by users. Some have pointed out the limitations in customization and scalability, as mentioned earlier. These critiques are valuable for potential users to set realistic expectations and for the platform’s developers to identify areas for improvement.
Systeme.io for Different Business Sizes
Systeme.io’s suitability for small businesses is one of its key strengths. Its simple interface, combined with a comprehensive set of tools, makes it an ideal choice for small enterprises looking to establish or expand their online presence without a significant investment in multiple tools or platforms.
For medium to large enterprises, the relevance of Systeme.io can vary. While it offers a solid foundation for digital marketing, larger businesses with more complex needs might find the platform somewhat limiting. However, for businesses at the cusp of growth, Systeme.io can be an excellent tool to start with, providing a cost-effective solution for scaling up their marketing efforts.
Final Verdict on Systeme.io
The overall assessment of Systeme.io is overwhelmingly positive, especially when considering its target audience of small businesses and entrepreneurs. The platform offers a remarkable range of features at an unbeatable price point, making it an excellent choice for those starting their digital marketing journey or looking to consolidate their marketing tools.
The recommendation for specific user groups would vary based on their size, needs, and experience in digital marketing. For beginners and small businesses, Systeme.io is an excellent choice, offering everything needed to get started with digital marketing. For more established businesses or those with very specific needs, it might serve as a stepping stone before moving on to more specialized or advanced platforms.
About the Author
Jeff Rose, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner™, founder of Good Financial Cents, and author of the personal finance book Soldier of Finance. He was a financial planner for 16+ years having founded, Alliance Wealth Management, a SEC Registered Investment Advisory firm, before selling it to focus on his passion – educating the masses on the importance of financial freedom through this blog, his podcast, and YouTube channel.
Jeff holds a Bachelors in Science in Finance and minor in Accounting from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. In addition to his CFP® designation, he also earned the marks of AAMS® – Accredited Asset Management Specialist – and CRPC® – Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor.
While a practicing financial advisor, Jeff was named to Investopedia’s distinguished list of Top 100 advisors (as high as #6) multiple times and CNBC’s Digital Advisory Council.
Jeff is an Iraqi combat veteran and served 9 years in the Army National Guard. His work is regularly featured in Forbes, Business Insider, Inc.com and Entrepreneur.
All written content on this site is for information purposes only. Opinions expressed herein are solely those of AWM, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources and no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation.
All third party trademarks, including logos and icons, referenced in this website, are the property of their respective owners. Unless otherwise indicated, the use of third party trademarks herein does not imply or indicate any relationship, sponsorship, or endorsement between Good Financial Cents® and the owners of those trademarks. Any reference in this website to third party trademarks is to identify the corresponding third party goods and/or services.
Is it worth it to start a blog in 2024? Is it profitable to have a blog? If you’re thinking about starting a blog, then I think it’s a great time. Whether you want to start a blog or create a social media account and make money on there (such as TikTok), a blog of…
Is it worth it to start a blog in 2024? Is it profitable to have a blog?
If you’re thinking about starting a blog, then I think it’s a great time.
Whether you want to start a blog or create a social media account and make money on there (such as TikTok), a blog of your own is something that I always recommend. This is because you own your blog and you are in control!
Perhaps you’ve been thinking about starting a blog for some time, but you’re afraid that you have waited too long.
Every year I get the same questions from people who are thinking about starting a blog but are worried that it’s too late.
I also have friends who have started blogs in the past year or two and were told the same thing.
I still remember the early days from when I first started my blog.
I was so clueless when I first started my blog. And, it seemed like a very random thing when I first heard about blogging, but I decided to go ahead and create a blog of my own.
Making Sense of Cents was started simply as a way to keep track of my own personal finance journey. Most people in my life didn’t even know I had a blog.
It’s so funny to think back to when I first started my blog, but I’m so glad I gave blogging a chance. I can’t imagine how different my life would be if I had listened to the people who said it was too late to start a blog.
Because of how blogging changed my life, I love telling others about it. That’s exactly what I’m doing today if you are on the fence about starting a blog.
Blogging helped me pay off my debt, quit my regular job, travel full-time, and more. The best part is that I love what I do. And, as you can tell from my business income reports, I now earn a great living from my blog.
Related content on blogging:
Is it worth it to start a blog in 2024?
1. Yes, you can still start a blog
2024 is not too late to start a blog, but you will want to get started! I hear from so many bloggers who have delayed launching their blogs because they are afraid.
Well, you won’t know how blogging will go for you unless you start a blog.
Yes, blogging has changed over the years, but it is constantly changing and always will be. You will have to do things differently than when I first started blogging, but that’s normal with any online business, job, and so on.
Related content: The Best Blogging Courses & Resources That Helped Me Make $5,000,000
2. There is space for new bloggers
I often hear, “But there’s so many blogs out there now.” Yes, there are many blogs, but there is still space. It’s all about finding your own voice and attracting your own audience.
I am still finding brand new blogs that I love, and it’s exciting watching them grow.
Everyone is different, and everyone has their own point of view.
Of course, just like with any time, you will have to find ways to make your story stand out, grow your audience, and more. But, that is completely normal.
Plus, there are so many social media platforms that you can grow on as well, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and more.
3. Blogs can make money in 2024 (and into the future)
Companies and brands are still putting money toward investing in blogs and social media accounts.
Companies are increasing their marketing budgets, specifically to grow their market and audience through blogs.
And, that’s where you and I come in!
Before, companies usually would advertise and promote their products through celebrities, TV shows, movies and more. However, these days, so many people are buying products from things that they see from their favorite bloggers and social media accounts, and companies are definitely noticing this and are putting more of their marketing budget toward it.
Related tip: Sign up for Making Sense of Affiliate Marketing and learn how I’ve earned over $1,000,000 through affiliate marketing with my blog.
4. Starting a blog can be quite enjoyable
Okay, so not everyone will love having a blog. That is completely normal! After all, not everyone likes every single job out there either.
But, for me, I absolutely love blogging. And, I know many others who do as well.
I enjoy helping others improve their financial situation, reading blog posts from other bloggers, finding new people to talk to, working on my blog, and especially writing.
I love waking up each morning to work, and I no longer dread work like I did when I had my day job.
Blogging is both challenging and rewarding, as there is always something new to learn. And, it’s a lot of fun to reach and connect with new people through your blog.
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Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog?
In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
5. You can start a blog for cheap
A blog is very affordable to create.
I spent less than $100 total for the whole first year of Making Sense of Cents.
If you are interested in taking the steps to learn how to create a blog, I have a tutorial that will help you create a blog of your own for cheap, starting at only $2.75 per month for blog hosting (this low price is only through my link). In addition to the low pricing, you will receive a free website domain (a $15 value) through my referral link if you purchase at least 12 months of blog hosting.
This means you can learn how to start a blog in 2024 and make money for less than $50 a year.
I started my blog with super cheap blog hosting, and I designed it myself (even though I had no experience ever doing something like that).
I did pretty much everything myself so that I could save money, and while it was a learning experience, it was well worth it.
This is great because you can start a blog, test it out, and not spend a lot of money.
6. You are in control
Do you want a flexible schedule? What about controlling how you make an income? Want to work from home?
By starting a blog, these are all things that you can be in control of. You get to be the decision-maker when it comes to deciding on what type of business you’ll run, your schedule, your goals, the topic you write about, and more.
I love being in complete control of what I do, and becoming self-employed may allow you to feel that way as well. I enjoy deciding what I will do each day, creating my own schedule, determining my business goals, handling everything behind the scenes, and more.
7. You don’t need to be a tech wizard to start a blog
I get asked this all the time, “Do I need to be good at social media or know how to code in order to start a blog?”
No!
You definitely do not.
In order to become a blogger in 2024, you don’t need previous experience. You don’t need to have a computer degree (I don’t think I know any bloggers who do, haha), previously be active on social media, or know how to design a website.
These are all things that you will learn as you go, or you may even hire some tasks out.
Nearly every single blogger was brand new at some point, and they had no idea what they were doing.
I’m proof of that. I had just learned that blogs existed when I started Making Sense of Cents, and I definitely didn’t know that bloggers could make money. I learned how to create a blog from the bottom up and have worked my way to where I am today.
Now, that doesn’t mean that blogging is easy. It will require hard work and the beginning can be tough. But it is something that you can learn.
8. You can still learn how to start a blog
One of the great things about starting a blog in 2024 is that there are many free resources that can help you get started.
In fact, I didn’t spend any money in the beginning in order to learn how to blog – instead, I signed up for free workshops, free resources, and more. Since I didn’t know what I was doing, I knew that I didn’t want to spend a lot of money.
Here are some free resources to help you learn how to start a blog.
I recommend starting off with my free blogging course How To Start A Blog FREE Course.
Affiliate Marketing Tips For Bloggers – Free eBook – This is a free 36-page ebook that will teach you what affiliate marketing is, how you can get started with affiliate links, the best affiliate marketing programs for bloggers, how bloggers get paid, and more.
8 Easy Tips To Make Money From Sponsored Posts On Your Blog – Sponsorships on your blog are a great way of earning a living online. Learn how I made my first blogging income, and how I’m now making $10,000 to $20,000 a month with sponsored partnerships!
The SEO Starter Pack (FREE Video Training) – Level up your SEO knowledge in just 60 minutes with this FREE 6-day video training.
The Free Blogging Planner – The Blogging Planner is a free workbook that I created just for you! In this free workbook, you’ll receive printables for starting your blog, creating a blog post, a daily/weekly blog planner, goals, and more.
How Anyone Can Create an Online Course That Sells – In this free training, you will learn the 7-step process to create, market, and launch a profitable online course.
Pinterest Image Guide – This guide will teach you how to create the best pins for your blog posts.
ConvertKit – A great email marketing company to check out is ConvertKit. They have great customer service and a free trial for new customers. They also hold a lot of free workshops that you can sign up for. I personally use ConvertKit for my email list and I highly recommend them.
How can I start a successful blog in 2024?
Here are some things to keep in mind in order to create a successful blog:
Brainstorm a good blog niche. Some do better than others, and this is something to keep in mind
Be self-hosted and create an easy-to-navigate blog design
Brainstorm and write content for your blog
Create an email list
Start social media accounts
Find ways to grow your blog
Learn how to make money blogging
You can learn more at How To Start A Successful Blog In 10 Steps.
Is it still profitable to start a blog? Is it worth it to start a blog and make money?
Yes, blogs can still make money in 2024. I think starting a blog can definitely be worth it and valuable. You can turn your hobbies, expertise, and/or creativity to start a profitable blog. And, even if you don’t have strong writing skills, that is something that you can learn as you go.
Luckily, you don’t need much to start a blog either. An internet connection, computer, and a domain name are the best ways to start!
If blogging is so wonderful, then why doesn’t everyone start one?
Not everyone starts a blog because it isn’t for everyone.
That would be like saying that becoming a zoologist or an astronaut is for everyone.
Everyone has different skills, different passions, and more.
So, not everyone will want to be a blogger. That is completely fine.
Learning how to earn money blogging is work, and just like with all jobs – not everyone wants what you want.
And, for every successful blog out there, there are probably hundreds of bloggers who will never earn money blogging. While you can earn money blogging, not all bloggers will.
It would be like saying that 100% of people who start a business will see success. That is just never going to happen – businesses fail, business owners have a change of heart, and others just don’t find it enjoyable.
I know I am always talking about the positives of blogging, but I also like to mention how it’s not the easiest.
After all, if blogging was easy, then everyone would do it and everyone would make thousands of dollars a month.
But as you know, that’s not the case.
Not everyone is going to earn money blogging because it can be a lot of work! Most new bloggers quit just a few months in. A few months is not enough time to see if your blog will be successful. It took me six months before I started to earn money blogging, and I only earned $100.
It’s funny and weird to think about what life would be like if I would have quit back then.
I’m constantly learning something new when it comes to blogging, and that is why I enjoy it so much.
If you are interested in starting a blog, I do recommend giving it a shot.
How To Start A Blog FREE Course
With this free course, I show you how to grow a blog from scratch, from the technical side (it’s easier than you think – trust me!) all the way to earning your first income and attracting followers.
Each day for seven days, you will receive an email in your inbox that will help you from the beginning, and I will teach you how to start a blog in 2024 and make money.
Below is a quick summary of what you will learn in this free 7-day course:
Day 1: Why you should start a blog.
Day 2: How to decide what to write about.
Day 3: How to create your own blog. This lesson focuses on creating a blog with WordPress. My tutorial makes it very easy to start your blog.
Day 4: How to make money with your blog.
Day 5: My tips for earning passive income.
Day 6: How to grow your page views on your blog.
Day 7: My other blogging tips to help you see success.
Please sign up for my How To Start a Blog FREE Course by clicking here or signing up below.
What do you think: Should you start a blog in 2024? Do you want to learn how to start a blog and get paid?
How To Start A Blog Free Email Course
Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog?
In this free course, I show you how to create a blog easily, from the technical side all the way to earning your first income and attracting readers. Join now!
Wholesaler Wanted; PPE, DSCR, Marketing, AVM Products; FHA, Ginnie News; Listings on the Rise!
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Wholesaler Wanted; PPE, DSCR, Marketing, AVM Products; FHA, Ginnie News; Listings on the Rise!
By: Rob Chrisman
Tue, Nov 14 2023, 10:32 AM
This morning I head to Kansas, greeted by the news that Southwest is raising drink fees for the holidays. Has the “Let’s circle back after the holidays” season officially begun in your office or in your meetings with vendors? Chortles aside, one of the discussion topics in KC will certainly be the impending move in credit prices as lenders everywhere move toward charging borrowers up front. Whether the cost change is driven by Fair Isacc or the credit bureaus, and then being passed along by the CRAs, it doesn’t matter. It’s coming, and the jungle drums are saying the price changes will impact soft credit pulls, which (or course) many lenders implemented to reduce their costs with the amount of credit reports run as it’s cheaper than the full hard credit pull. Some lenders may use Freddie or Fannie AUS. (Today’s podcast can be found here, sponsored by LoanCare, the mortgage subservicer known for delivering superior customer experience through personalization and convenience. Its award-winning portfolio management tool, LoanCare Analytics, supports MSR investors with a focus on customer engagement, liquidity, and credit risk. Hear an interview with Polunsky Beitel Green’s Peter Idziak on the direction of mortgage interest rates in the months and year ahead, and what to make of the NAR case verdict’s impact on the home buying process.)
Lender and Broker Software, Products, and Services
Housing authorities rolled out 54 down payment assistance (DPA) programs in Q3 and are funding buydowns, and certain loan fees to offset the home affordability crisis. That’s according to Down Payment Resource’s (DPR) Q3 2023 HPI Report. In fact, 50 new agencies began offering programs last quarter alone. Prospective homebuyers are being hammered with news about affordability being in the dumps, but what they aren’t hearing is that there are thousands of DPA programs to help. With DPR, you can be the bearer of good news, while using DPA to salvage DTI ratios as interest rates go up. As the industry authority on DPA solutions, DPR tracks the eligibility, benefit, and guideline data of the nation’s 2,200+ assistance programs. Learn how DPR’s integrated toolset makes it easy to operationalize DPA across departments and geographies. Schedule a demo today.
Strength, stability, and proven performance are essential in the mortgage space. Flagstar Bank has been checking all the boxes for 35 years, leading the way with more than $111 billion in assets, diverse product offerings, and consistently delivering excellent service. As the nation’s second largest warehouse lender with a team of a dozen dedicated relationship managers, you can count on Flagstar to handle your business with care. They warehouse most loan types, including conventional, non-QM, and construction, with a platform designed for quick and easy funding solutions for their 400 warehouse clients. Flagstar’s expertise also covers MSR, servicer advance, and EBO financing solutions, all of which they can tailor to meet your business needs. Their specialized mortgage banking team can even help streamline your operations and maximize the value of your cash balances. Flagstar is the ultimate one-stop-mortgage shop for lenders of all sizes. Contact Patti Robins or Jeff Neufeld today to learn firsthand why Flagstar should be your top choice.
Don’t let inaccurate home values harm your customer experience! When Hitch, a digital HELOC provider, found that the AVM it used to assess the value of a client’s home and deliver an estimated HELOC limit was off by up to $100,000, it sought a better solution. Hitch upgraded to a lending-grade, industry-leading AVM and boosted valuation accuracy, enhanced customer experience, and approved 30 percent more loans. Discover how Hitch transformed their HELOC lending operation to improve customer experience and internal efficiencies with ClearAVM™. Read the full case study to learn more.
“Maximize your efficiency and lower costs with Richey May’s RM Analyze. Our business intelligence solution will show you where you can make improvements and save money. Stay ahead of the competition by operating leaner and smarter. For the cost of half a full-time employee, you’ll gain access to a team of experts with a wealth of experience in the mortgage industry and a wide range of reports, including up-to-the-minute benchmarking data. With this valuable knowledge, you can make informed decisions that will propel your business forward. Don’t just survive… Thrive by learning how to operate leaner with Richey May.”
Equity is an untapped $18T (yes, trillion!) opportunity for mortgage lenders. That’s because most homeowners aren’t actively monitoring their equity level or making plans for how to use it. And, until now, the challenge for lenders has been identifying equity-rich contacts and engaging them with personalized communications that help them understand their options. Total Expert Customer Intelligence creates enriched contact profiles so loan officers can help homeowners understand their options for leveraging home equity and provide the guidance and support they need to reach their financial goals. Download our Equity Enrichment Guide to learn more.
In mortgage lending, speed matters. Consumers are more likely to buy from the company that responds to their inquiry first. ICE helps lenders answer the demand for instant availability with Surefire℠ CRM and Mortgage Marketing Engine Power Messaging. The feature sets LOs up to win by instantly responding to any lead, from any source, via text message. Here’s another stat for you: text messages enjoy a whopping 97 percent open rate within 15 minutes of being delivered, far surpassing the performance of email marketing. To discover how Surefire automated multichannel marketing campaigns can help you convert more leads to closed loans, schedule a demo with the ICE team today.
“Expiring Soon! Earn Up to 125bps bonus on DSCR loans! LendingOne is offering a Volume Incentive Bonus for Mortgage Brokers available until December 31st, 2023. Join the Preferred Broker Pricing Program and have access to Bronze, Silver, and Gold tiers with volume incentive bonuses based on funded loan production or number of loans funded. Earn 50bps, 100bps, or 125bps at each production level on DSCR Loans. LendingOne’s Third-Party Originations Channel is committed to providing mortgage brokers opportunities to increase their revenue and grow their bottom line in the DSCR market. Call us today to learn more: 866-794-0937 or visit our website.”
Reflecting on her decision to adopt Polly’s cloud-native, high-performance PPE, Kristin Ankeny Bickenbach, SVP of Secondary Marketing at New American Funding, said: “Back in the second half of last year, we knew the mortgage industry was in for a challenging 2023. I was asking myself: ‘How can we maximize our responsiveness? How can we be creative and position ourselves for success in an incredibly challenging market?’ As a sales-focused organization, I knew we needed a sharp PPE to enable us to act decisively and with precision, which is ultimately what led me to Polly.” NAF partnered with Polly as they sought to navigate the complexities of an increasingly dynamic market using a modern and proven engine that would grant access to the most sophisticated data science and machine learning tools available. Click here to read the press release. Looking for even more detail?! Request the NAF case study: [email protected].
Listings!
Want some good news? Altos Research reports that as of November 10th, inventory was at 567,000. Meanwhile, the St. Louis Fed, the source of some great information, pegs the active listing count at 737,000 and it is rising. This is still only about 7 listings for every real estate brokerage firm out there. I am too lazy to figure out the difference between the two stats.
Government Program Updates
FHA Press Release, HUD No. 23-257, describes FHA’s proposal to allow assignment of the HECM when its due and payable status is based on the death of all borrowers and non-borrowing spouses. HECMs that are due and payable are not eligible for assignment to the Secretary unless there is a non-borrowing spouse in a deferral period. FHA posted a draft Mortgagee Letter (ML), Updates to Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) Assignment Eligibility, on its Single-Family Housing Drafting Table (Drafting Table) web page for public feedback.
On October 16, 2023, FHA published Mortgagee Letter (ML) 2023-17, Revisions to Rental Income Policies, Property Eligibility, and Appraisal Protocols for Accessory Dwelling Units, which provided expanded financing options for borrowers seeking to purchase properties with an existing accessory dwelling unit (ADU), rehabilitate existing structures to add ADUs, or construct new homes with ADUs. To support changes announced in the ML, FHA is enhancing its FHA Connection (FHAC) system.
FHA published extensions to its temporary regulatory waiver and related Single Family Housing Policy Handbook 4000.1 (Handbook 4000.1) waiver, which allow mortgagees to utilize alternative methods for conducting meetings with borrowers in accordance with FHA’s early default intervention requirements. These alternatives provide practical and useful methods for conducting non-contact interviews with borrowers while ensuring they still receive needed information directly from their mortgage servicer. FHA initially published temporary partial waivers of these requirements on March 13, 2020, and previously extended them through December 31, 2023. FHA is now extending the waivers through May 31, 2024. For the details, read the temporary regulatory waiver and Handbook 4000.1 waiver.
Ginnie Mae’s APM 23-12 provides information on the December 1, 2023 deadline for the complete transition of all Single Family and Manufactured Housing Program pooling to the new Single Family Pool Delivery Module (SFPDM) and the establishment of SFPDM as the sole application for this type of pooling going forward, As part of this transition and further modernization of the Mortgage-Backed Securities (MBS) programs, the APM also outlines the discontinuation of paper pooling options for Single Family and Manufactured Housing Issuers. The MBS Guide has been revised to incorporate these updated policies and operational requirements.
For the 2023 calendar year to date, Ginnie Mae supported the pooling and securitization of more than 520,000 first-time homebuyer loans. According to Ginnie Mae Press Releases post,
Ginnie Mae Mortgage-Backed Securities Portfolio reached $2.492 Trillion in October. For more information on monthly MBS issuance, Unpaid Principal Balance (UPB), real estate investment conduit (REMIC) monthly issuance, and global market analysis, visit Ginnie Mae Disclosure.
On October 16, 2023, FHA published ML-2023-17, establishing guidelines for consideration of rental income in underwriting and protocols for the Appraiser’s analysis and reporting of Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) market rent on appraisals. Applicability to AmeriHome requirements are posted in AmeriHome Mortgage Announcement Number: 20231101-CL.
Capital Markets
Recall that last week closed with investors digesting “hawkish” rhetoric from Fed Chair Powell, though MBS and Treasuries rebounded on Friday from Thursday’s auction-driven slide. Even with Fed Chair Powell once again dashing investor hopes of the Fed easing policy in the near term, stating that the FOMC would leave the door open for additional rate hikes should economic data show inflation remains elevated, it’s safe to say that the U.S. economy has entered a “wait-and-see” period.
Ahead of today’s highly anticipated October CPI report, the New York Fed’s Survey of Consumer Expectations yesterday showed a decline in one-year and five-year ahead inflation expectations, which conflicted with Friday’s UMich Sentiment Survey showing increasing inflation expectations amongst consumers. Regardless, Treasuries also digested a Moody’s downgrade of the U.S. credit outlook to negative from stable reasonably well. Moody’s on Friday cited the mounting debt and the rising cost of servicing that debt. With several Federal Reserve officials warning investors last week that additional rate hikes may lay ahead, investors opened the week looking ahead to today’s October CPI report, where analysts anticipated that the annualized headline reading would drop to 3.3 percent from 3.7 percent previously.
Today’s economic calendar kicked off with NFIB small business optimism for October before the all-important October CPI report. Headline CPI was flat, up 3.2 percent year over year. The core rate, ex food and energy, was up .2 percent for the month and +4.0 percent year over year. Several Fed speakers are also scheduled, including Vice Chair Jefferson, Vice Chair of Supervision Barr, Cleveland President Mester, and Chicago President Goolsbee. We begin the day with Agency MBS prices better from Friday by .250-.375 and the 10-year yielding 4.49 after closing Friday at 4.63 percent after a stellar CPI number.
Employment
GO Mortgage distinguishes itself in product, technology, and personal touch! GO has the full range of products including single close construction, non-QM, state housing, and more to ensure you capture every loan you can. Get the modern top-tier tech suite you need to build your personal brand, including Total Expert with Customer Intelligence for real-time database insights, online reputation management from Experience.com, and the SOCI platform for automated social media – all without any added costs. Plus, the personal touch of unmatched speed, adaptability, and direct access to underwriting and leadership. Let’s GO! Reach out to us or apply directly here.
Movement Mortgage has experienced a 300 percent year over year growth in reverse mortgage business in 2023! Earlier this year Movement brought in the most experienced reverse mortgage team in the nation who have dedicated their careers to reverse sales and operations. Plus, Movement has set its loan officers up for success with a reverse-eligible borrower dashboard in MORE, Movement’s new sales and marketing platform powered by Salesforce. Movement LOs can now identify reverse-eligible borrowers from their previous and current loans to offer this incredibly powerful product. Click here to learn more about reverse mortgages at Movement.
A veteran group of mortgage bankers is interested in purchasing a small wholesaler in good standing and that has its “tickets” with Fannie, Freddie, and Ginnie. Loan production volume is not a priority. Interested parties should send me a confidential note for forwarding.
Mobility Market Intelligence (MMI) announced Brian McKray has been promoted to Vice President of Product. DepthPR writes, “His efforts in spearheading the development and implementation of MMI’s user insights tool and custom dashboard hub have fueled this promotion. Using these customer insights, MMI is actively building improved in-app onboarding and support tools.”
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Internal Audit, Verification, Broker, Marketing Products; Training and Webinars Next Week
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Internal Audit, Verification, Broker, Marketing Products; Training and Webinars Next Week
By: Rob Chrisman
1 Hour, 17 Min ago
The unofficial Chrisman LLC sarcastic slogan is, “We do this not because it is easy, but because we thought it would be easy.” Hopefully, there are no lenders out there with that slogan, as residential lending, done the right way, is not easy. Sometimes residential lending seems discombobulated. Sometimes things settle down and become more orderly: recombobulated! (Workflow and improved lender efficiency are the topics of today’s Mortgage Collaborative Rundown featuring Donielle Geiser with Thrive Mortgage.) Not only is our biz not easy but it is also unpredictable. 2024 is shaping up to be another tough year for mortgage originations due to the market environment, and every basis point will matter. Capacity still needs to be right sized across the industry, and the market and your competitors will force that to happen. Would you rather have profitability or market share? If you’re losing money what difference does market share make? If you don’t have a HELOC or 2nd program, find one. Even companies like Rithm Capital (parent of New Rez, doing about $4 billion a month and who have done better than expected) are forecasting a dismal Q4 and a challenging 2024. (Today’s podcast can be found here, sponsored by Visio Lending and its top notch broker program. Visio is the nation’s premier lender for buy and hold investors with over 2.5 billion closed loans for single-family rental properties, including vacation rentals. Listen to an interview between Robbie and me on the Commentary’s editorial process and its evolution over the years.)
Lender and Broker Software, Products, and Services
Are you looking for a cost-effective way to build your personal brand and capture demand in this challenging market? Do you want to be top of mind for the prospective home buyers in your market? If so, and you want a simple, easy-to-use suite of marketing tools to position you above your competition, then you need to subscribe to Tabrasa One! Tabrasa One is a brand new, all-in-one marketing platform with first-class marketing capabilities, from email marketing campaigns to impactful social media to leading-edge video to insightful market intelligence from our legendary Mortgage Market Guide, all rooted in a mortgage-specific CRM foundation. Tabrasa One can deliver unparalleled marketing impact for you at an unprecedented low cost. Sign up now: www.tabrasa.io.
In this market, hustle is everything. You can’t afford to waste a single deal… Or a single minute. That’s why ReadyPrice has launched Shop, Lock, Deliver. It’s an innovative platform designed to help independent mortgage brokers and their lenders save time and money. Now you can shop competitive loan offerings from multiple lenders, get rate lock guarantees in real time, receive underwriting findings, and deliver the borrower’s complete loan file to lenders, all on a single platform, at no cost to brokers. It’s already helping brokers around the country thrive and compete in the toughest market. Multiple lenders. One platform. Zero b.s. Come check us out today.
Get ready to energize your teams and learn new insights to win more business! Join Rocket Pro TPO with a live audience of 500 brokers Tuesday (11/7) at 1:30pm ET for their next IGNITE Live meeting, hosted by Executive Vice President, Mike Fawaz! Streaming from its All Access event in Detroit, find out how Rocket Pro TPO offers its partners more certainty, speed and expertise with Crews, the Credit Upgrade Team and the SOS Scenario Team, all dedicated to serve you. Talk to them to optimize your strategies around recent product changes including a Home Equity Loan CLTV/FICO expansion, more available census tracts for Purchase Plus and more LTV flexibility on VA, and up to 100% LTV on loan amounts over $1.5 million! Interested in learning more about a Broker or Non-Delegated Correspondent partnership? Contact Rocket Pro TPO to learn more.
Save $100 on every application with Truv! Orion Lending slashed their annual expenses by $300,000 and boosted their conversion rate by 32% using Truv’s income and employment verification solution. “Truv transformed our verification process, expanding our reach and cutting costs,” asserts Richard Plummer, EVP of Operations at Orion Lending. Stop the financial bleed. ContactTRUV today to discuss how we can help you with your income, employment, insurance, and asset verifications.
What’s an internal audit anyway and do you need one? An internal audit acts as a third line of defense for your mortgage operation. It provides comprehensive assurance based on the highest level of independence and objectivity to evaluate the effectiveness of management’s internal controls. This function should advise your mortgage operation on plans to achieve the company’s strategic, operational, financial and compliance goals. An effective internal audit should go far beyond just checking a compliance box; it should be an integral part of protecting your company. If you want to ensure you’re adhering to regulatory requirements and demonstrating good faith business practices, a Richey May internal audit is a good fit. If you’re looking to be Fannie Mae approved in the future or want to maintain your approved status, it’s required. If you’re unsure whether you need an internal audit, ask one of Richey May’s experts today or learn more here.
Training and Webinars Next Week
A good place for longer term conference planning is to start is here, and click on “events” for conferences in the future.
Today, Friday the 27th is The Mortgage Collaborative’s Rundown covering current events in the mortgage market for 30-45 minutes starting at noon PT, 3PM ET in “The Rundown”. Today’s features Thrive Mortgage’s COO Donielle Geiser.
Tuesday, Halloween, is the next Mortgages with Millennials with Kristin Messerli and Robbie Chrisman. Tune in every Tuesday at 10AM PT to the weekly video show designed to empower mortgage professionals to tap into the millennial market. This show demystifies the psychology of first-time homebuyers and offers strategies to win more market share with a key segment of the market. Sign up for a weekly reminder with the link to join and a sneak peek into the next episode.
A shout out to Lender Toolkit and its 2024 Supercar event in Las Vegas to kick off ICE Experience 2024 on March 18! The company is offering early bird discounts on sponsorships, but only until October 31. Imagine your logo on an exotic car with your clients and prospects behind the wheel. And yours truly will be doing a live podcast! To get the deal on sponsorships reach out to Brent Emler or grab the sponsorship form.
Join the AEI Housing Center for the 12th Annual AEI Housing Conference, Tuesday, Oct. 31st and Wednesday, Nov. 1st, both in-person and online.
Looking for more in-depth commentary on weekly mortgage news? Register here for “Mortgage Matters: The Weekly Roundup” presented by Lenders One. Every Wednesday at 2:00 PM EST/11:00 AM PT is a dive into a range of mortgage-related topics, including market trends, interest rate fluctuations, innovative mortgage products, and industry advancements. Listen to a unique mix of age perspective, expertise, and charisma to the screen, ensuring that the information is not only educational but also entertaining. This Wednesday’s features National MI!
The Knowledge Coop’s new membership platform offers all state and federal Continuing Education courses in an engaging and exciting video format that you’re sure to actually enjoy. Want to give yourself a sharper competitive edge? They also offer in-depth training on specific topics like VA Loans and FHA within their Coop Academy. Get access to industry experts and connect with other mortgage professionals all in one space. Use Code Chrisman10 for 10 percent off your first year of membership here.
Join the Appraisal Subcommittee (ASC) on Wednesday, November 1, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. ET for its third public hearing focused on appraisal bias, the residential appraisal process, and associated regulations. ASC provides federal oversight of state appraiser and appraisal management company (AMC) regulatory programs and monitors and reviews the Appraisal Foundation. The ASC is a subcommittee of the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC).
Join MBA of Florida on November 2nd, 1:00 – 5:30 PM for a Loan Officer Summit at Orlando Museum of Art. Attendees will enjoy an interactive panel of top producing loan officers. This will be a moderated panel with opportunities for Q&A.
On November 2, the Montana Association for Mortgage Professionals is having a dinner at Stockman Bank in Missoula (321 W. Broadway).
Spend Time with the Best… Register for the MBAF LO Summit on November 2, beginning at 1:00pm at the Orlando Museum of Art. Enjoy interactive panel of top producing loan officers, conversation with realtors as they discuss best practices and relationship building in the real estate industry, Speaker Amir Syed of Growth Only Coaching plus networking and happy hour.
Become a Certified Veterans Lending Specialist, CoAMP is partnering with NAMB to bring their exceptional CVLS course to Denver on Friday, November 3rd, 8:30 AM – 5:00 p.m. Mountain Time. The certification training will cover VA lending basics in addition to advanced topics to set yourself apart. You will take the certification exam immediately following the course, upon passing you will be presented with your CVLS certification and marketing materials.
Friday the 3rd is The Mortgage Collaborative’s Rundown covering current events in the mortgage market for 30-45 minutes starting at noon PT in “The Rundown”.
Capital Markets
Higher rates. But rates are already high, and the bond market is doing the Federal Reserve’s rate-setting work for it. U.S. economic growth accelerated in the third quarter to a 4.9 percent seasonally adjusted annualized pace, signaling the economy remains resilient in the face of higher rates and still-elevated prices. That’s not necessarily good news for the Fed, as the central bank pumps the brakes on interest rate hikes in the wake of rising long-term bond yields and geopolitical turmoil. While persistent strength in demand could put the inflation descent in jeopardy, the report doesn’t change much for policymakers and the FOMC is still expected to leave rates unchanged at next week’s meeting while reinforcing the case for restrictive monetary policy near-term.
The overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figure was powered by strong consumer spending, which rose 4 percent, strong government spending, and a sizable build in inventories which bumped up the investment portion. It should also be acknowledged that the core Personal Consumption Expenditure Price Index was up 2.4 percent in the third quarter, slowing significantly from 3.7 percent in Q2 and 4.9 percent in Q1. Across “the pond,” the European Central Bank refrained from raising rates for the first time in ten meetings, noting that underlying inflation has eased and is expected to continue decelerating but ECB President Lagarde refused to say that the peak rate has been reached, adding that it would be premature to discuss rate cuts.
Fed favorite PCE for September kicked off today’s calendar (+.4 percent). The core Personal Consumption Expenditure price index increased .3 versus 0.3 percent month-over-month expected and 3.7 percent year-over-year expectations and 0.1 percent month-over-month and 3.9 year-over-year previously. Personal Income was +.3 percent and Personal Spending was Later this +.7. morning brings final October Michigan sentiment, remarks from Fed Vice Chair of Supervision Barr, and more earnings from Wall Street. We begin the day with Agency MBS prices unchanged from Thursday’s close and the 10-year yielding 4.86 after closing yesterday at 4.85 percent.
Jobs
Mortgage Equity Partners (MEP), a growing IMB headquartered in Massachusetts, continues to build upon its growth strategy. In addition to several recent high-caliber new hires on the sales and management team, MEP has done it again. Rick Dionne has joined the team as Vice President, Sales Business Development. Rick will use his extensive experience to help recruit best-in-class loan officers and branch managers and help them unlock their potential through branch partnerships. Rick has a wide range of industry knowledge obtained over many years in various management and leadership roles, most recently with Supreme Lending. MEP has also scored a big win in the Southeast by bolstering its presence in South Carolina under the leadership of Area Manager Jimmy Atkins. Jimmy is very well respected in the Southeast mortgage market and has held leadership positions at Gateway, Finance of America, and, most recently, Go Mortgage. Rick Dionne and Jimmy Atkins are top-level players in the mortgage space and will be instrumental in the continued growth of MEP. We are honored to have them on the team,” said John Cabral, Executive Vice President of Sales. To learn more about MEP, visit here.
UMortgage is proud to welcome Patton Gade, the nation’s #1 originator of VA loans, per the 2023 Scotsman Guide rankings, as its National Director of Military Lending. In his role, Gade will lead UMortgage’s Division of Military Lending and a team of experienced VA Loan Originators. This team is dedicated to offering the strongest loan products to VA borrowers and education to dispel the common myths surrounding the VA homebuying process. UMortgage is a proud homeownership advocate for our country’s veterans, active service members, and military families. In 2023, nearly 20% of the loans originated by UMortgage LOs were VA loans, well above the national average of 12% per the Congressional Budget Office. Joining an already prestigious team of VA-focused LOs which includes Jay Bunte, Jimmy Hobson, and Tyler Carlston, Gade plans to further increase the service UMortgage offers to our country’s service members. If you want to know why top producers continue to join the UMortgage platform to grow their business and create life-changing opportunities through homeownership, follow this link to connect with some of our standout LOs.
“Stronghill Capital, LLC, a fast-growing Austin, TX-based Wholesale and Correspondent lender, is hiring! We’re looking for experienced Account Executives with an existing book of business who are interested in growing in the Non-QM space. Stronghill specializes in investor residential/DSCR loans, offering unique programs specifically for investor clients. For our 5-10 Unit properties and our 2-8 Unit Mixed Use investment loans, we offer a DSCR ratio of 1.00. For 1-4 Unit properties, your investor clients can qualify using rental cash flow only with a DSCR ratio of 0.75. If you’re interested in being a part of a dynamic company with responsive leadership, sharp price execution, and a commitment to being competitive in the Non-QM space, contact Matt Brammer. As we continue to expand, we are open to discussions in all regions across the country.
Citizens has recently launched a nationwide Private Bank to help facilitate growth in wealth management, improve capabilities in the high-net-worth segment and expand in key markets. Citizens Private Bank will provide holistic, high-touch client service to high-net-worth individuals, families, and businesses, including private family foundations, nonprofit, multifamily and commercial real estate, life sciences, private equity, and venture capital firms. In an effort to better serve Private Bank clients, who often have unique mortgage needs, Citizens has enhanced its relationship lending capabilities to better reward customers for their business and are further evolving our already best-in-class products and services. We’re looking for talented mortgage loan officers who want to join a team who is playing offense and growing our capabilities each and every day. If you are looking to help customers achieve the dream of home ownership and want to learn more about Citizens, contact Sean Reilly or visit us here.
Logan Finance continues to set new Non-QM growth records in Q3! “We continue to see tremendous growth as the industry turns to us as the trusted, reliable partner in Non-QM lending,” says Don Pace, Logan CEO. “In addition to our high-touch service, we continue to expand our Non-QM product suite to encompass a broader set of niche lending needs.” To help support Logan’s tremendous growth, Logan has acquired industry veteran Aaron Samples as Chief Revenue Officer and continues actively hiring superstar account executives. Recent Logan family members include Jesus Gomez, Kelly Stovall, Will Clark, Chris Murphree, and Greg McDonell. If you’re a Non-QM Superstar and want to learn more about Logan’s growth, visit Loganwholesale.com and Logancorrespondent.com or contact Aaron Samples.
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Inside: Are you looking for ways to make money while you’re still in college? This guide has a variety of ideas for side hustles for college students that can help you get started. From online businesses to odd jobs, there’s something for everyone.
Are you a college student searching for ways to increase your income and improve your financial situation while balancing your academic commitments? We’ve got your back!
In this student-friendly guide, we’ll share side hustles for college students, giving you many opportunities to earn extra cash.
You can even learn to get paid to go to school!
Whether you’re tech-savvy, creative, or inclined towards offline work, you’ll find something that suits your preferences.
Let’s jump in and explore how you can transform your free time into a valuable money-making asset!
What is a Side Hustle?
Simply put, a side hustle is like having a little extra adventure on the side while you’re busy with your main gig, which in this case might be college classes.
It’s your chance to boost your finances and gather valuable experience that could pave the way for future career opportunities. It’s like adding a dash of extra flavor to your college life along with extra cash!
What side hustles can I do as a college student?
As a college student, you possess a unique set of skills and resources that can be leveraged to generate income.
Whether you aspire to know how to make quick money in one day or debate what should I do for a living, opportunities await you.
Stay tuned for the second part of this article, where we’ll explore a treasure trove of side hustles perfectly tailored for college students.
What can I do to make extra money as a college student?
As a college student, there are various ways to earn extra money.
Most importantly, you need to find something that works well into your college schedule.
That is why many college students prefer to learn how to make money online for beginners. That gives them the chance to make money on their time from their campus or anywhere else they choose to move.
Now, let’s move on to the best online and offline side hustles for college students that may be of interest to you.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
Best Online Side Hustles for College Students
As the digital era continues to expand, opportunities for online side hustles are becoming more prevalent.
These side gigs leverage the power of the internet allowing flexibility, diversity, and potential profitability without sacrificing full-time commitments.
From millennials to retirees, are venturing into online side hustles to supplement their income, make use of their skills, or explore new career paths.
1. Write Articles for Websites
If you have a flair for writing, you can explore freelance opportunities as a content writer for websites and blogs. Numerous online platforms offer paid writing gigs.
Create a portfolio of your writing samples, sign up on freelancing websites like Upwork or Fiverr, and start bidding on writing projects.
Learn how to Earn Money Writing.
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2. Build Websites
If you’re tech-savvy and have web design skills, offer website design services to individuals or small businesses looking to establish an online presence.
Showcase your web design work through a portfolio website, network with potential clients, and consider joining platforms like WordPress or Wix for easy website creation. Just make sure to use Kadence WP for themes!
This is a great gig for college students because you can take on more clients during your school breaks and none during finals week.
3. Starting an Etsy Business Selling Printables
Creating printables on Etsy is a popular and potentially profitable endeavor. It involves designing digital products that users can download and print at home.
Find the most popular digital products to sell on Etsy.
Beyond imagination and design skills, it is essential to learn how to optimize product descriptions and pricing, for which you can turn to comprehensive online courses. By following this how to sell printables course, you can equip yourself with the right tools to excel in this Etsy niche.
4. Create Videos
As a college student, there are two possible avenues for this side gig.
You can start a YouTube channel or offer video creation/editing services.
If you choose to venture into your own YouTube challenge, then you are able to monetize your videos through ads and sponsorships. Most importantly, you need to choose a niche for your YouTube channel, then create engaging content, and build a loyal audience.
Don’t want to be in the limelight? You can also offer video editing services on freelancing platforms.
5. Start a Blog
Share your knowledge or passion through a blog and monetize it through affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and ads.
Pick a niche you’re passionate about, set up a blog using platforms like WordPress and Kadence theme, and consistently publish high-quality content.
This is not for the faint of heart, but college students traditionally have better success because of promotion through social media and engaging with readers.
6. Start an E-commerce Business
Launch your online store selling products you’re passionate about. Platforms like Shopify make it easy.
Source or create your products, set up an e-commerce website, and market your products through social media, email marketing, and search engine optimization.
One of the main benefits is an e-commerce business with low start-up costs, low ongoing maintenance, and the ability to remain open and generate sales 24/7.
7. Become a Freelancer
Explore freelance platforms for various opportunities like graphic design, programming, or digital marketing.
As a freelancer, you can work remotely and at your own pace. Create a compelling freelancer profile, showcase your skills, and bid on projects that match your expertise on platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Guru.
This is a great way to start building your portfolio of experience.
8. Write Your Classmates’ Cover Letters and Resumés
Engaging in the preparation of your classmates’ cover letters and resumes can be a rewarding side hustle.
Many employers today express concern about the lack of well-written cover letters and resume submissions they receive. By capitalizing on your writing skills, you can provide a much-needed service for your peers while earning some income.
Hence, build your proficiency with practice resumes, then decide on your charge per each document created.
9. Sell Stock Photos
If you have photography skills, sell your photos on stock photography websites like Shutterstock.
This is a perfect side hustle for young adults because you are constantly capturing the moments.
To get started, create an account on stock photography platforms, upload high-quality images, add relevant keywords, and start earning royalties when your photos are downloaded.
10. Write eBooks
Capitalize on your expertise in a specific subject and create eBooks to sell on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing. Design an eye-catching cover and promote your eBook through social media and book-related forums.
This is the first step to passive income before you even graduate!
11. Proofreading
Proofreading can be a fruitful side hustle for students looking to earn extra money.
By leveraging your writing skills, you can charge a fee to proofread and edit classmates’ assignments, theses, or essays. Also, many small businesses are always looking for help!
With platforms like Fiverror college bulletin boards, you can advertise your services and set your own rates, potentially making $25–$45/hour according to proofreading expert Caitlyn Pyle.
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12. Start a Podcast
Starting a podcast can be an excellent revenue stream, given the significant increase in podcast listenership, with 82 million Americans being weekly podcast listeners according to a 2021 study.1
Your revenue can come from sponsorships, donations, and offering premium content or services. It’s essential to plan your podcast content aligning with your targeted audience and consistently producing high-quality episodes to grow and maintain your listener base.
13. Work as a Virtual Assistant
If you’re looking to start as a virtual assistant without prior experience, don’t worry!
Many businesses look for virtual assistants for tasks like email management, data entry, or social media management. Find out exactly what is needed with this virtual assistant checklist.
Plus working as a virtual assistant offers the flexibility to work remotely, which is a benefit for a college student.
Learn how to jumpstart your side hustle with this free Virtual Savvy training.
Virtual Savvy
If you’ve ever wanted to make a full-time income while working from home, you’re in the right place!
This intensive training combines thousands of hours of research, years of experience in growing a virtual assistant business, and the power of a coach who has helped thousands of students launch and grow their own businesses from scratch.
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Best Offline Side Hustles for College Students
In this section, we delve into the world of in-person side hustles.
Ideal for those preferring tangible interactions and a more predictable income, these opportunities demand physical presence and often offer good remuneration for physical labor.
However, they come with their own set of challenges like fixed service hours and potential clashes with a busy schedule.
1. House Sitting
House sitting is an excellent side hustle for college students.
You can offer your house-sitting services to neighbors or anyone going on vacation. It’s all about providing peace of mind to homeowners by ensuring their property is secure and well-maintained.
Build trust in your community by offering reliable house-sitting services, and word-of-mouth recommendations will follow. Consider promoting your services through Trusted Housesitter.
2. Food Delivery Driver
This is an extremely easy way to make money.
Sign up as a food delivery driver for platforms like UberEats or DoorDash. After registering as a driver and meeting the platform’s requirements, you can start delivering food orders in your area.
This side hustle allows you to set your hours and earn extra cash while enjoying the freedom of the open road.
3. Offer Lawn and Gardening Services
For those with a green thumb or a passion for outdoor work, offering lawn and gardening services can be a lucrative side hustle.
All by helping homeowners in your area with lawn care and gardening tasks. Investing in basic gardening tools is essential, and you can advertise your services through flyers, local online groups, or by simply offering your services to friends and family.
In fact, this may turn into your full-time business like this high school student.2
4. Shovel Snow During the Winter
If you live in an area with snowy winters, don’t miss the opportunity to capitalize on it. Offer snow shoveling services to residents in your community.
Promote your snow shoveling services well in advance of the winter season to secure clients.
On a snowy day, you can easily make 200 dollars fast. Just by being prepared to respond promptly to snowfall, and ensuring that driveways and walkways are safe and clear.
5. Become a Tutor
Sharing your knowledge by becoming a tutor is not only a valuable service but also a great way to earn extra income.
You can tutor fellow students in subjects you excel in or offer your expertise to local school kids. You can also tutor your classmates who are struggling in class.
Advertise your tutoring services through college bulletin boards, social media, or tutoring websites.
6. Clean Houses and/or Offices
Cleaning services are in demand, and you can provide them to individuals or businesses in your area.
Invest in basic cleaning supplies and equipment, set competitive rates, and market your services through local ads, referrals, and social media.
A reputation for thorough and reliable cleaning can quickly build your clientele.
7. Edit Your Classmates’ Papers — For a Fee, Of Course
If you have strong writing and editing skills, consider offering your editing services to your fellow students.
Many students appreciate having their papers reviewed and improved by a peer.
Promote your editing services within your college network, showcase your skills, and offer reasonable pricing to attract clients. This can quickly spiral to making 300 dollars fast.
8. Become a Handyman or Handywoman
If you’re skilled in fixing household issues or performing basic maintenance tasks, this side hustle can be highly profitable.
Acquire a basic toolkit, and offer your handyman services locally. From minor repairs to assembling furniture, providing reliable and affordable solutions can earn you a good reputation and repeat business.
You can quickly get started on TaskRabbit today.
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9. Translator
This is a highly needed service! If you’re proficient in multiple languages, offering translation services can be a rewarding side hustle.
Create a portfolio that showcases your language proficiency and advertise your skills to businesses or individuals who require translation services.
Your ability to bridge language barriers can be a valuable asset to various clients.
10. Deliver Anything Else Someone Might Need
If you’re the proud owner of a vehicle or even a trusty bicycle, you can tap into the world of delivery services. While food delivery is a popular option, you can expand your offerings to deliver a wide range of items.
Consider offering delivery services for groceries, prescription medications, packages, and even care packages for college students.
People are always willing to pay for help.
11. Drive for Uber or Lyft
Becoming a rideshare driver with companies like Uber or Lyft is a popular side hustle that offers flexibility. Sign up as a driver, meet the platform’s requirements, and start offering rides to passengers.
The benefit is you can choose your working hours, making it convenient to fit around your class schedule.
12. Hauling Junk
Help people declutter their homes by offering junk hauling services. You’ll need access to a pickup truck or a vehicle with ample cargo space.
Advertise your services, establish rates based on the volume of items to be hauled, and provide efficient and responsible junk removal.
Seriously, I see three or more posts in my neighborhood with people asking for help to move their junk!
13. Turning Your Car into a Moving Advertisement
Ever wondered if you could make money while driving around town? Well, here’s an interesting side hustle idea – turning your car into a moving advertisement.
Some companies are willing to pay you to wrap your car with their branding, turning it into a rolling billboard.
As you cruise through town, you’ll not only earn money but also become a conversation starter. It’s a unique way to earn extra income while sparking interesting discussions about the products or services you’re promoting.
14. Offer Moving Services
Assisting with local moves can be physically demanding but financially rewarding. Advertise your moving services locally, and consider forming a team if necessary.
Ensure you have the necessary equipment, such as dollies and moving blankets, to facilitate the moving process. By providing a smooth and efficient moving experience can lead to positive reviews and referrals.
15. Entertaining Kids at Birthday Parties
Entertaining children at birthday parties is a profitable side hustle for college students, especially those who have a knack for acting or enjoy engaging with children.
This venture could earn you between $50 and $100 per hour.
Develop a repertoire of entertaining acts, start promoting your services through local event planners and social media, and offer packages for different party sizes.
16. Teach Music or Sports Lessons
Share your musical or athletic skills by offering lessons to aspiring learners.
Whether you’re skilled in playing an instrument, coaching a sport, or giving dance lessons, there’s likely a demand in your community. Advertise your lessons through flyers, social media, or local community centers.
Make sure you have the necessary equipment and expertise to provide quality instruction. This is what I did in high school and college.
17. Proctor Tests
If your college conducts exams, there may be opportunities for students to work as test proctors for a fee. Inquire about proctoring opportunities at your college’s testing center or academic department.
This can be a convenient way to earn extra income without straying far from your campus.
18. Become a Legal Street Performer
If you have a talent for street performing (e.g., playing music or juggling), consider performing in public spaces for tips.
Choose a suitable location, prepare your act, and follow local regulations for street performances.
Could you make $1000 in a day?
19. Be a Lifeguard
Lifeguarding is a responsible job that requires attentiveness and quick response in case of emergencies. If you’re a strong swimmer with the necessary certifications, consider working as a lifeguard at local pools or aquatic centers.
Unfortunately, this is a high-stress and low-paying job. So, you are better off considering one of these low stress jobs that pay well.
20. Offer a Painting Service
Offering painting services can be a rewarding side hustle, especially for those who find the task peaceful and enjoy bringing a fresh new look to rooms or entire homes.
Most homeowners dread the prospect of painting their own homes and are often willing to hire a handyman to do the job. You can easily make 500 dollars fast.
With minimal initial investment in quality brushes and rollers, you can unleash your creativity and transform spaces with color and design, choosing your own hours and clients in the process.
21. Sign Up as a Substitute Teacher
Working as a substitute teacher is an excellent opportunity for individuals who do not necessarily have a teaching certificate but possess a high school diploma and a clean background check.
My husband, having served as a substitute teacher, found the experience to be rewarding when he was in college.
Not only did it pay well, averaging about $131 per day, but it also allowed him the chance to engage in student activities and provide value to the local school district.
22. Babysitting
Babysitting is a viable side gig, particularly suitable for early childhood education degree seekers, offering flexibility and a rewarding experience while caring for others’ children.
It involves variable commitments mostly during evenings, weekends, and some weekdays, with an average earning potential of $17 per hour.
Securing babysitting roles can be accomplished through personal connections, local community outlets, and digital platforms likeCare.com and Sittercity.
Why is college the best time to start a side hustle?
Before we bid adieu for now, let’s ponder why college is the perfect breeding ground for side hustles:
Flexibility: College schedules often come with pockets of free time, making it easier to juggle academic responsibilities and a side gig.
Learning and Growth: Side hustles offer valuable lessons in time management, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship that complement your academic knowledge.
Networking: Your college is a hub of potential clients, collaborators, and mentors, providing a fertile ground for your side hustle to thrive.
Financial Independence: Earning your own money allows you to alleviate the burden of student loans and gain financial independence.
Employing multiple streams of income is the savviest thing you could do for your finances and your long-term wealth.
Tips to be Successful with Your Side Jobs for Students
One of the best things about side hustles, is you are able to get real-life experiences and knowledge. This side hustle may or may not become your full-time job, but the skills are transferable.
The goal is to find success, so let’s explore some essential tips to succeed in your side hustles as a college student:
Time Management: Prioritize your college commitments and allocate dedicated time for your side hustle.
Skill Utilization: Leverage your skills, whether it’s writing, design, or a particular subject you excel in.
Online Presence: Create a portfolio or profile to showcase your skills and attract potential clients or customers.
Networking: Connect with fellow students, professors, and professionals who might offer opportunities or guidance.
Also, don’t give up if your first side justle doesn’t work out the way you hoped. Keep going until you find something you love to do!
Are You Ready To Start Hustling?
As you set off on your side hustle journey, keep in mind that consistency, dedication, and adaptability will be your trusted companions.
Whether you choose to dive into online opportunities, embrace offline endeavors, or strike a balance between the two, every experience will play a part in your personal and entrepreneurial growth.
If you are going to be in various locations during your college years, it is best to look for remote jobs for college students.
Your path towards financial empowerment is only just beginning, and we’re thrilled to be with you every step of the journey.
Between each college exam and class, you can make money to pay for your schooling. I think that is a win-win to pay for college without loans.
Start your side hustle today and get on the path to financial freedom with Money Bliss.
Source
Statistica. “U.S. Podcasting Industry – statistics & facts.” https://www.statista.com/topics/3170/podcasting/#topicOverview. Accessed on October 4, 2023.SSt
10 News. “A CEO at 17: How this Colorado teen transformed his side hustle into a legitimate business.” https://www.10news.com/news/green-worx-landscaping-golden-colorado. Accessed on October 4, 2023.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
When you’re in college, you likely want to choose a major that will lead to a successful and enjoyable career. If you’re a business marketing major, you may wonder whether the education you’re getting now will pay off in terms of the type of job you’ll qualify for after you graduate, and what you can earn.
Here’s a look at what you can expect as a marketing major — both during college and after you graduate.
What Does a Marketing Major Learn?
As a marketing major, you will learn various aspects and strategies for promoting a company or product, creating brand awareness, and building relationships with customers.
You may study marketing tools like social media, content marketing, and advertising, as well as public relations, sales, marketing strategy, and consumer behavior.
Once you complete your degree, you should have a thorough understanding of how to employ these tools and tactics in the real world on behalf of your employer. 💡 Quick Tip: You can fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.
Who Is It Good For?
If you’re still trying to determine the best college major and are considering marketing, here’s some insight into the type of person who might thrive in a marketing career.
If you’re curious about how brands connect with customers and find yourself analyzing ads in magazines and on television, you might be a natural marketer. Marketers are typically creative and good communicators; you’ll need that ingenuity to come up with innovative marketing campaigns to compete with others in a given industry.
Depending on the job you get after college, you may work with a team on campaigns, or you may be solely in charge of doing multiple different tasks on your own. Ideally, you’ll be excited and confident about sharing your ideas for projects.
If you’ve got an analytical mind, so much the better. You’ll be able to analyze data to better understand what types of marketing efforts are working to reach your audience and which aren’t.
Recommended: 20 of the Most Popular College Majors
Why Consider Marketing?
Marketing isn’t a trendy or even industry-specific career; it’s one that every brand on earth needs. As a result, there will likely always be careers in marketing. Because marketing is what propels a company to sell products or services, it has a return on investment, and that means that companies are willing to also invest in smart marketing professionals.
Everywhere you look, there’s marketing, from the product placement in your favorite television show to the daily Instagram posts from influencers that offer “sponsored content.” Being a part of this exciting field gives you the opportunity to shape how consumers connect with brands.
Recommended: How Do You Change Your Major?
What Jobs Can a Marketing Major Get?
So you’ve majored in marketing and now you want to know your career options. What does a marketing major do after graduating? And what professional goals can you set down the road, once you’ve had more experience?
Entry-Level Marketing Jobs
Depending on your specific interest in marketing, there are several paths you could take after graduation.
If you enjoy working with advertising, you could get work as a media buyer, who is in charge of purchasing ads, both digital and print, to achieve marketing goals. Average annual salaries can be as high as $80,195.
If you enjoy dabbling in different aspects of marketing, you could be a marketing coordinator. You might be a part of planning and launching marketing campaigns and events, managing email marketing, and writing content for different platforms. The national average annual salary is $51,283.
If you lit up in your public relations coursework, a public relations assistant might be a good first job. You’ll be tasked with creating press releases and pitch letters, and connecting with the media to get interviews and media coverage for your brand. Salaries vary, but the average is around $42,642 a year.
Recommended: Return on Education for Bachelor’s Degrees
Marketing Jobs for More Experienced Professionals
Once you have a bit of experience in your entry-level marketing job, you may be eligible for a promotion or could qualify for a more advanced role with a different company like the following ones.
A public relations manager has approximately six to eight years of experience working in PR. In addition to building relationships with journalists and influencers and securing media coverage for a brand, this role may also hire and manage other PR roles as well as writers and designers. The average salary for this role is around $62,810.
A marketing director could be a good goal after you build experience as a marketing coordinator and have five to 10 years of marketing experience. This role is involved in the planning of marketing activities, building a budget, and forecasting sales. You may oversee a marketing team, including internal staff and freelancers. The average salary for this position is approximately $141,490, but can vary widely.
Another option once you have one to five years of experience, specifically in sales, is as a sales manager. This role analyzes sales data to shape sales and pricing strategy and may train or manage sales staff. The average salary for a sales manager is $107,500.
Launching Your Own Marketing Business
You’re not limited to working for someone else in your marketing career; many professionals get experience under their belt by working for companies of all sizes, then decide to open their own business. That could be a one-person content marketing business run out of your home or a PR firm with office space and staff.
Starting your own business gives you the flexibility of working when you want, and to choose exactly the marketing, advertising, or PR services you want to specialize in. It does, however, require plenty of hard work and dedication: without the stability of a regular paycheck, you aren’t guaranteed to make a certain amount of money.
Recommended: Ca$h Course: A Student’s Guide to Money
What Can a Marketing Major Earn?
Understandably, you want some reassurance that what you’ll make in your career after graduating will help you quickly pay off any student debt and help you become financially successful.
Generally, students can expect to make the least right after graduating, since they’ll have little to no work experience. Salary expectations for entry-level marketing positions can vary based on factors like where you live and the industry you want to work in. Some companies may offer hiring bonuses or commission on top of that salary.
As you build experience, your salary will generally increase. Again, this will depend on your specific experience and accomplishments as well as the industry and company you work for. 💡 Quick Tip: Even if you don’t think you qualify for financial aid, you should fill out the FAFSA form. Many schools require it for merit-based scholarships, too. You can submit it as early as Oct. 1.
The Takeaway
Only you know whether marketing is a field that you will thrive in and enjoy being a part of, but suffice it to say that there is an opportunity to learn a wide range of marketing skills and career advancement potential if you’re willing to put in the work to climb that corporate ladder.
Of course, as a student, you’re still a long way from earning a sizable salary, and coming up with enough funds to cover the high cost of college can be challenging. Fortunately, no matter what you’re thinking about majoring in, you have a range of funding options, including grants, scholarships, federal work-study programs, and both federal and private student loans.
If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.
Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.
SoFi Loan Products SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
SoFi Private Student Loans Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
Looking for a simple way to get started with SMS marketing? On this podcast with SimpleTexting’s Jennifer Hay, we discuss how real estate professionals can quickly leverage one of today’s most powerful marketing tools: texting. In addition to covering how to stay compliant, Jennifer shares the types of texts that work best for buyers and sellers and the best texting tools for busy Realtors. Listen and learn how to start selling more homes with a simple system for text-message marketing.
Listen to today’s show and learn:
The problem with email marketing [1:33]
About SimpleTexting and how it helps real estate professionals [2:23]
Ways a Realtor can use texting in their real estate business [4:22]
Features that SimpleTexting offers over the typical real estate CRM [6:39]
Why cold texting prospects is a bad idea [10:03]
Getting your number registered for text marketing [11:54]
Advice for getting started with text marketing [13:37]
The compliant way to collect numbers for text marketing [14:11]
Keys to getting the right responses when marketing via text [15:34]
Why you should send short, personalized text messages [16:46]
When to switch from texting to a phone call [17:59]
What makes SimpleTexting turnkey [19:55]
Options for communicating via text and calls with SimpleTexting [23:22]
A feature for protecting your work-life balance [25:25]
How to convert email leads into texting prospects [27:03]
The easy way to start text marketing [29:05]
How to get a free trial with SimpleTexting [31:26]
Jennifer Hay
Jennifer has been at SimpleTexting since 2019, started on the Support/Onboard team, worked as an Account Executive and now leads the Sales Team at SimpleTexting. Works with many businesses in real estate, ecomm/retail, and SMBs of all kinds. Prior to that, she practiced law for 7 years, specializing in litigation. She’s a Texan at heart and now lives in North Palm Beach, FL with her fiance and mini dachshund puppy.
Related Links and Resources:
It might go without saying, but I’m going to say it anyway: We really value listeners like you. We’re constantly working to improve the show, so why not leave us a review? If you love the content and can’t stand the thought of missing the nuggets our Rockstar guests share every week, please subscribe; it’ll get you instant access to our latest episodes and is the best way to support your favorite real estate podcast. Have questions? Suggestions? Want to say hi? Shoot me a message via Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or Email.
This article is part of a series put together by the Total Mortgage marketing team that provides loan officers and other sales professionals with a crash course in marketing and self-promotion. To read other articles in this series, click here.
Good business doesn’t change.
Or does it?
As the market recovers from the housing crisis, many loan officers and housing professionals are making the mistake of trying to return to a pre-crash business model.
Pre-crash, there was no such thing as a smartphone. Your average homebuyer hadn’t grown up with the internet. Most transactions were conducted over the phone, maybe with an email or two here and there. Unfortunately, this isn’t 2005. Reaching today’s homebuyers requires a different set of skills.
This guide will help start you down the right path.
Meet the next generation of homebuyers
You’ve probably heard the word “Millennials” thrown around to describe today’s college kids and recent grads, but that moniker actually applies to anyone born from the early 80’s up until around 2000.
So while one of the biggest myths out there right now is that Millennials are still years and years away from buying their first homes, that’s simply not true. They’re already here.
So is the intent to buy homes. According to a 2014 survey conducted by Fannie Mae, 76% of younger renters actually think that owning is more sensible than renting in the long term.
What’s more—there are a LOT of them. Millennials number around 76.6 million, more than even Baby Boomers. In a few years, they’ll make up a majority of buyers, and without an understanding of what separates them from past generations, you may find yourself struggling.
Marketing to Millennials
There’s one thing that will never change: a house is still a huge purchase, especially for a generation crippled student loan debt.
Winning over Millennials will be an uphill battle for most loan officers, as they may be the toughest generation to market to yet. In a 2012 Pew Research Center survey, just 19% said most people could be trusted, compared with 40% of Baby Boomers.
To earn the trust of Millennials, you’re going to have to be able to:
Meet them halfway, on the platforms they use most.
Be fast, accurate, and personable.
Promote yourself in ways that make them feel involved, understood, and educated, not marketed at.
Understand what they value and promote accordingly.
If all that has you scratching your head, don’t worry. We’ll go through the basics components of a good marketing plan next.
Going beyond the phone
Traditionally, the phone has been the key point of contact when it comes to mortgages. Regardless of where the lead came from or how it reached the loan officer, the goal has always been to get that lead on the phone.
But Millennials are much less likely to respond to offers of phone calls so you can talk about their concerns. In fact, many will try to get out of talking to you completely. A greater reliance on personal cell phones over a family landline has turned talking on the phone into a much more personal act.
Many other older marketing tactics also won’t work, either because younger generations have started to abandon the medium or grow wise to marketing lingo:
Direct mail
Radio ads
Print ads
Even email marketing can backfire if not done right. Millennials have grown up sifting through junk mail. They’ll have no problem deleting anything that isn’t relevant to their needs or interests. To learn more about email marketing the right way, our guide on email lead nurturing is a great start.
The importance of a CRM
We’ve already touched on Customer Relationship Management tools (or CRMs) in our blog on referral partners, but here are the basics.
CRMs are built to keep all of your contacts, accounts, leads, referral partners, and emails in one place, organized and ready for you. A CRM isn’t the sort of platform you can wave around to impress prospective clients or referral partners, but it will help you stay on top of all the channels you manage on a day to day basis.
There are tons of platforms out there. If a CRM sounds right for you, shop around before settling on one. At Total Mortgage, we offer our loan officers a few different CRM options just so they can find one that fits their workflow.
Creating content you can market
A great way to build a relationship with potential clients? Give them something valuable, no strings attached, with your name on it. This builds goodwill while attracting potential clients to a space you control—generally a blog or newsletter.
This isn’t a new idea. Way back in 1904, for instance a struggling Jell-O gave out free cookbooks full of Jell-O recipes, only to see their sales balloon to over one million (on a ten cent product).
The trick, of course, is knowing what sort of content will be most valuable to the kind of people who are likely to become your customers. That’s something we can definitely help you out with. We’ve run a popular industry blog for almost 10 years. Our guide to content will be a great jumping off point.
Once you’re ready to post, you encounter a whole new set of problems. In order for your content to reach as many people as possible, you have to make it friendly to search engines like Google. If you’re wondering how we do it, this guide on on-page optimization and this other one on generating links to your page will be a treat for you.
If you’re looking for a way to stand out from the crowd, though, you might want to check into our guide on marketing videos. Total Mortgage creates video for a wide range of uses, and we’ve found that it can really make a difference (especially if you use our tips).
Social media and you
Social media isn’t a hot new fad anymore—it’s a fact of life for a large percentage of the population, Millennials and Boomers alike. That makes it a great way for you to connect directly with your audience and give potential customers a feel for who you are.
Most companies big and small have a Facebook page these days. That’s a great first step, but it’s not going to get you far. If you’re wondering where to go next, we have some great resources on how to get started on other platforms and engaging with followers.
Of course, gathering followers and interacting with your peers isn’t the only thing social media is good for. It also makes for a great advertising platform. Facebook especially offer tons of options for targeting your ads to a specific audience. Take a look at our primer on social advertising here.
Mobile and apps
Housing is a slow and steady kind of industry. Many smaller companies and brokers still haven’t made the jump to online lending, much less considered the part mobile will play in their future.
However, that future is coming up quick. Right now about 56% of internet traffic already comes from mobile devices. That’s a huge number, and it’s only going to go up as new users age into the market.
While updating (or even creating) your site, consider optimizing for mobile, so that it will look nice and stay usable to potential borrowers on the go. Another thing to consider? An app. Our MyTotal Mortgage app has played a huge part in allowing us to reach a new set of homebuyers. It might not be right for everyone, but if you’re working with a larger company that has the resources, consider raising the issue with your sales manager.
Referral partners
In the face of all this talk of SEO and Twitter, it’s easy to overlook the old-school tactics that will still play well with this generation of homebuyers. Namely, building up a network of referral partners.
One thing that hasn’t changed about buying a house? It still takes a small army of people, including realtors, inspector, contractors—you get the picture. By creating a network of professionals you trust (and who trust you), you create opportunities for buyers to find you through word of mouth.
If you’re interested in seeing a breakdown of how Total Mortgage loan officers make this happen, guess what—we have a guide for it. Just click here to learn more.
To get more specifics about what the Total Mortgage marketing team does for our loan officers, check out other articles in this series, or by visiting our career portal.