If you’re on the hunt for the right pattern to decorate the walls of your home, look no further than Just Wallpaper in Brookfield.
The wallpaper store’s new location at 9219 Broadway Ave. opened to customers Tuesday. Co-owners Julia Hamilton and Kate Sanderson staff the stop themselves Tuesdays through Saturdays, helping customers who walk in or book appointments browse through the thousands of patterns the store has available to personalize their homes and make their spaces feel lived in.
“Don’t decorate your house gray and white for the future owner. Why are you doing that?” Hamilton said. “You live there. Decorate it for you!”
Berwyn Shops, an incubator program for small businesses in Berwyn’s Roosevelt Road corridor, and realized how much demand there was for a walk-in wallpaper store.
“A week into getting our LLC, the person from the [Berwyn Development Corporation] was like, ‘Oh, hey, do you want to get involved in this?’ And the next thing you know, we donated wallpaper to all 12 of the shops, and we have a park bench with our logo on it,” Hamilton said. “Then, people were like, ‘Well, we want to come check the books.’”
While Hamilton said she hadn’t envisioned Just Wallpaper having a storefront, she and Sanderson converted a “little, tiny, tiny office space” in Berwyn — the entire building was smaller than the front room of the store’s current space, Hamilton said — into a shop in June 2022 so they could host customers. In January 2023, they had expanded the store’s hours, accepting walk-in customers two days a week. By September 2023, they were open four days a week for walk-ins.
“Most of what we found is that people were coming into the little shop, and they [were] like, ‘Oh my God, thank God I found you. I’ve been on the internet for three months, I’ve spent $100 on samples, and I still haven’t found the [right] wallpaper. Help me!’” Hamilton said. “That’s where it became, like, ‘OK, this is a shop, and we’ve got to find a real store, and this is real.’ We’re solving a little problem, but we’re solving it.”
When it came time for Just Wallpaper to find a new location, Hamilton said the business’s current space felt right as soon as she saw it. She said Brookfield, too, made sense for Just Wallpaper’s new home due to its proximity to Chicago and its central location among the western suburbs.
“One of the things we learned rather quickly is that our clients that were in the city had no problem coming to Berwyn or Brookfield,” Hamilton said. “It’s not that far. It’s no big deal.”
Since the original Just Wallpaper was in Orland Park, “We have a lot of south suburb clients and people that are willing to drive, and they’re not willing to drive into the city,” she said. “We knew our general client is, you know, from Oak Park to LaGrange … We didn’t want to venture far, and Brookfield ended up being the most perfect.”
Hamilton said wallpaper has had a “really big surge” in popularity since the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We’ve seen it in real estate, but in interior design, [there’s a trend of] just making your space more your own, making it more lived in, making it more personal, and wallpaper’s just like a really easy way to do that,” she said. “It can be a luxury product based on price point, but just like anything else, it can also have a core-basics price point as well.”
While Just Wallpaper is just starting out at its Brookfield location, Hamilton said she and Sanderson have their eyes on the future.
“Not on the immediate horizon, but long-term horizon, I would love — you know, assuming we are thriving in the space, and wallpaper is trending in the way it has been — I would love to open more locations and have it be a retailer for wallpaper,” Hamilton said. “That’s the big dream.”
Finance of America Companies (FOA), parent company of industry-leading reverse mortgage lender Finance of America Reverse (FAR), released a new “investor update” this week to update shareholders and other stakeholders on different elements of its reverse mortgage business including its strategic initiatives, business model and an update on its integration of American Advisors Group (AAG).
The company also provides commentary for its fourth quarter 2023 financial performance, assesses its market advantages and offers an assessment of impacts stemming from changes in Ginnie Mae’s Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM)-backed Securities (HMBS) program.
Business update and market share
The company announced the availability of the update in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). FOA begins the update by listing statistics illustrating the market potential of reverse mortgages, including the amount of home equity held by seniors ($13 trillion based on the Reverse Mortgage Market Index), a majority of seniors’ aging in place preferences and sources of anxiety in retirement.
Citing data from New View Advisors, FOA describes itself as “the largest Ginnie Mae HECM issuer for the last 10 years” when including AAG, with 37% of total 2023 issuance compared to Longbridge Financial (21%), Liberty Reverse Mortgage (16%) and Mutual of Omaha Mortgage (15%).
The company also said it “continues to evaluate new products to reach additional segments of the population facing a retirement gap,” and describes recent reverse mortgage industry consolidation following influential industry changes in 2017 and the 2022 bankruptcy of Reverse Mortgage Funding (RMF).
“As a result, the industry has consolidated from approximately 20 HECM issuers controlling 50% of the market in 2017 to only four today, and FOA’s market share has increased to 37% over that same period with the acquisition of AAG,” the company said.
Last July, the company sold its title insurance business to Essent Group, followed by strategic changes in September including a transition of its offshore-based operations to a team in the Philippines and the sale of “certain operations” of its home improvement lending business to Aqua Finance.
“Following the wind down of its forward mortgage business and sales of non-reverse segments including Lender Services, Commercial Originations and Home Improvement, FOA is focused solely on the reverse mortgage market,” the company said. “The Company has substantially completed its exit from all non-core businesses at the end of Q1’24.”
Reverse mortgage leader and ‘right-sizing,’ future goals
Following its acquisition of AAG in March 2023, the company became the industry’s leading reverse mortgage lender. This resulted in the company taking “aggressive actions to rightsize its originations and back-office headcount to align with continuing operations,” saying it reduced its overall headcount by roughly 30% from its Q2 2023 peak following the acquisition of AAG.
This has resulted in FOA having “less than 1,000 employees” as of the end of 2023, the company said, leaving the organization “well-positioned to evaluate opportunities for further industry consolidation,” the update explained.
The company is also transitioning into what it calls a “de-levered, cash-generation business model,” which it plans to accomplish by “monetizing its existing balance sheet while new originations generate free cash flow and long-term equity value.”
That positive free cash flow it is aiming for will potentially go toward new financing on newly-originated HECM mortgage servicing rights (HMSRs), and wants to reach a point where “incremental financing” on HMSRs create additional liquidity.
FHA, HMBS program changes
The company went into additional detail regarding changes handed down to the HMBS program by Ginnie Mae brought about by the bankruptcy of RMF. Last September, Ginnie Mae announced it would begin allowing the securitization of multiple participations related to a particular HECM in any one issuance month. In January, the government-owned company announced its plans to develop a new reverse mortgage-backed security product in response to industry liquidity challenges.
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) announced a series of several different HECM servicing changes in November 2023 including allowing mortgage servicers to contact borrowers by phone to verify occupancy for the program’s required annual occupancy certification, as well as allowing mortgage servicers to assign a HECM to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) after the servicer funded a cure on delinquent obligations.
FOA noted several impacts on its business stemming from these changes, including increasing the “velocity” of tail securitizations; a reduction in the need for third-party financing; and increased value for the company’s HMSRs.
Ginnie Mae’s potential new HMBS product, referred to by some in the industry as “HMBS 2.0,” has other notable potential for FOA’s reverse mortgage business, the company explained.
“HMBS 2.0 may allow FoA to collapse ~$630 million of securitized buyout [unpaid principal balance (UPB)] and reissue these as [Ginnie Mae] securitizations, improving liquidity and freeing operating capital,” the company said.
In its Q4 2023 earnings report last month, FOA said that it narrowed its quarterly loss to $20 million and posted an overall improvement in its earnings to $164.7 million in fourth-quarter 2023.
The fourth-quarter loss was down from the $25 million in losses posted in Q3 2023, touted its HMBS market share and addressed remaining challenges related to the integration of AAG and two notices it received from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) about its stock price being out of compliance with continued listing standards.
“We’re turning down way more deals than we’re doing,” Franklin told Bloomberg. “It’s a low, low risk, low-yield game that we’re playing.” Read more: Three strategies to mitigate risk in real estate investing in 2024 Kevin Gould, CEO of the California Bankers Association, argued that banks follow “safe and sound lending practices” that should ensure … [Read more…]
After participating in pop-ups and markets—and working with AD100 designer Alex Papachristidis—founder Alice Minnich opened Larger Cross to embrace New Jersey’s “bucolic lifestyle.” The shop features a wonderful mix of country house essentials, including antique English furniture and silver, Mexican etched glassware, and other stylish finds. Though Larger Cross has select pieces on its web store, its Oldwick location is a must-visit because of its robust inventory and soothing sage green interior.
Charming and often locally made home accessories and gifts are the specialty of interior designer Laura Hodges, who runs this storefront in the historic area of downtown Catonsville. Knitted throw blankets, handmade ceramics, ample artwork, and a profusion of pillows are what keep shoppers stopping by.
Think of Good Neighbor as one of the few home decor stores that can appeal to all the senses. Located in Baltimore’s Hampden neighborhood, the retailer boasts a roster of contemporary wares sure to elevate any entryway, living room, or home office. (Highlights include rippled glassware from Ferm Living, Hem’s vibrant side tables, and terrazzo stools courtesy of Normann Copenhagen.) Should you get hungry mid-spree, grab a coffee or sweet treat at Good Neighbor’s in-store café. You can also check out Green Neighbor, the retailer’s New Age nursery next door that sells plants and modern gardening essentials.
Eclectic design enthusiasts might know Yowie for its sprightly social media presence; however, its brick-and-mortar store in Philadelphia’s Queen Village is well worth the in-person visit. Yowie is open only a few days each week, but if you schedule your stop for the right moment, you’ll see that Shannon Maldonado packs the storefront with punchy ceramics, glassware, pillows, and linens, as well as innovative provisions. Out-of-towners, take note: In 2023, Yowie opened a colorful hotel attached to the storefront for some bold beauty sleep.
Growing up in Amsterdam, founder Natalie van Dijk had a deep appreciation for all-things home decor—so much so that she studied textile design in Europe and pursued a career in New York City. When she decided to open her shop in Boston’s South End, she blended aspects of her unique journey into one storefront: the sleek aesthetic of Amsterdam, the luxuries of Paris, and the innovative spirit of NYC. (Lekker is Dutch for “pleasing, enjoyable, and tasty.”) Van Dijk’s perfected the balance of understated and upscale with furniture upholstered in Alexander Girard textiles, outdoor rugs by Chilewich, and table lamps by &Tradition.
Home Remedies has been serving up classic New England charm since 2010—and remains a favorite design destination for locals and out-of-towners alike. (Even the store itself feels unequivocally Maine, thanks to its exposed wooden beams, brick walls, and a sprinkling of shiplap.) Nestled on Portland’s bustling Commercial Street, the retailer is the epitome of east coast style with an assortment of Thibaut throw pillows, lobster-printed serveware, and cast-iron cookware.
Midwest
With a studio-slash-storefront a stone’s throw away from Chicago’s famed Wrigley Field, Mitchell Black is the place to find custom and bespoke wall coverings in any style. You can also specify statement-making wall murals, peel-and-stick repeats, and just about anything else that will add a graphic punch to a project. In addition to signature repeats, Mitchell Black is also brimming with designer collaborations from the likes of Beth Glover and Forbes Masters, among others.
Open on weekends, or by appointment, The Stoop isn’t the kind of store you can sporadically swing by. But once you finally carve out some time to visit the West Town retailer, you’ll be happy you did. While The Stoop might have an impressive selection of secondhand clothes and accessories, it’s the homewares section that offers hit after hit. On any given day, you can pick up a complete Alessi by Michael Graves set or graphic art by Erin Burke.
Shopkeeper Beth Berke isn’t an interior designer by trade. (In fact, she spent many years as an aid and social worker.) However, when she was sprucing up her historic home many years ago, Berke found herself searching all corners of the earth for unique vintage pieces—and loved every minute of it. Her hobby turned into a full-fledged business with South Loop Loft, which is located just north of Chicago’s Fulton Market area. From Carrara marble office furniture dating back to the 1980s to a Belgian “space age” sofa from the 1970s, South Loop Loft gives retro finds a cool, trending flair.
Are you looking for the best jobs in nature? If you really enjoy being outside and care about nature, you might want to find a job in the great outdoors. Nature careers let you work outside instead of in an office and let you be part of nature. Whether you’re helping people go fishing, studying…
Are you looking for the best jobs in nature?
If you really enjoy being outside and care about nature, you might want to find a job in the great outdoors.
Nature careers let you work outside instead of in an office and let you be part of nature.
Whether you’re helping people go fishing, studying animals as a wildlife scientist, or coming up with new ways to help the environment as an engineer, jobs in nature can be really satisfying and make a big difference.
Best Jobs in Nature
Below are the best jobs in nature.
Recommended reading: 15 Outdoor Jobs For People Who Love Being Outside
1. Park ranger
Being a park ranger could be your dream come true if you love the outdoors and nature.
A park ranger works in places like national parks. They take care of the forests, mountains, and lakes, and their days are spent outdoors, helping animals and keeping nature beautiful for visitors.
This job is more than just a walk in the park. You may guide people on tours, answer questions, and sometimes help find lost hikers. You need to know a lot about the park and care deeply for nature.
Park ranger pay starts at about $30,000 and can go higher.
2. Conservation scientist
If you love nature and want to protect it, think about being a conservation scientist. They get to work outdoors, study wildlife, and help keep the planet green.
Conservation scientists play a big role in looking after our world, and their job is to study plants, animals, and habitats to understand how they all work together. Then, they come up with plans to protect these natural resources.
3. Nature photographer
One of the most popular jobs that involve nature and travel is a nature photographer.
When I was growing up, becoming an outdoors photographer was actually one of my dreams.
Nature photographers take photos of the outdoors. You could work for magazines (like “National Geographic”), websites, conservation groups, or even stock photo sites (like Getty Images). Some nature photographers sell their photos to make money. You might work in far-off forests, mountains, or even your local park.
Nature photography is a competitive field, so you will need very high-quality unique photos to stand out. You’ll need to understand how to use different lenses and equipment like tripods. And, you’ll want to have lots of practice taking photos of wildlife and natural scenes.
Recommended reading: How To Get Paid To Travel The World (18 Realistic Ideas!)
4. Marine biologist
If you love the ocean and its creatures, being a marine biologist might be just the thing for you.
Marine biologists do important work like studying the tiny life forms in water, such as bacteria and tiny plants. They also investigate how the ocean is changing and what that might mean for our planet’s future.
When you’re in school, it’s important to concentrate on science classes. When you get to college, you’ll have the chance to learn even more about marine life. Plus, being a marine biologist can pay well. On average, you could make about $66,350 per year or more.
5. Fly-fishing guide
If you love the idea of working outside and are passionate about fishing, consider becoming a fly-fishing guide. They spend their days on the river, helping others catch fish and enjoy nature.
A fly-fishing guide’s main job is to teach people how to fly fish and/or bring them to areas where they can catch fish.
Popular fly-fishing areas all over are in constant need of fly-fishing guides. So, you may be able to find guiding jobs in amazing places like Alaska, Montana, and Colorado.
6. Wildlife biologist
Wildlife biologists study animals and how they interact with their environment. They also may track animal numbers to see how many there are, write reports on wildlife findings, and help make sure animals are safe when new buildings or roads are made.
They work outside in forests or parks, or inside at a lab.
7. Environmental engineer
Environmental engineers use science and math to figure out how to tackle pollution and other problems (such as climate change) that hurt nature.
They get to be creative and use tools and technology to come up with solutions that make sure the water we drink is clean, the air we breathe is fresh, and the places where plants and animals live are safe.
8. Landscape architect
Landscape architects plan and create parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces that make towns and cities nicer places to live and visit.
Landscape architects typically need a degree in landscape architecture to start this career.
On average, landscape architects make around $50,000 a year, but they can earn over $100,000 each year.
9. Geologist
Geologists study the Earth and understand its history. This job can take you to many different places, from deep sea explorations to high mountain treks.
A geologist’s work involves looking at rocks, fossils, and other natural materials to learn about the planet’s past and chemistry, as this helps predict future changes and find resources like oil and minerals.
To become a geologist, you usually need a bachelor’s degree in geology or environmental science. Some geologists have a master’s degree, which can lead to more job possibilities and higher pay.
Recommended reading: 46 Fun Jobs That Pay Well
10. Environmental scientist
Environmental scientists spend their days figuring out how to fix environmental problems, such as by testing air and water to make sure it’s clean, or coming up with plans to protect animals and their homes.
11. Hydrologist
Hydrologists research how water moves across and under the earth, and they even predict floods.
To become a hydrologist, you typically need a degree in a field like environmental science to get started. Hydrologists earn around $85,000 a year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
12. Wildland firefighter
Wildland firefighters fight fires in places like forests, grasslands, and parks. They save trees, animals, and even people’s homes.
Firefighters have a challenging yet important job. Every day brings something different. Sometimes, they’re using tools to cut down trees and prevent fires from spreading. Other times, they might work with helicopters to reach fires in difficult locations.
There are more and more wildfires that are happening these days, so there is a big need for more firefighters. This is a very tough job, though, where you need to be in good physical health.
13. Forester
Foresters work with trees and help keep forests healthy and beautiful.
Foresters take care of both public and private forests to benefit the economy, recreation, and conservation. They keep track of the kind, amount, and where trees are, and figure out how much they’re worth. They negotiate buying trees and make contracts for getting them.
They also decide how to protect wildlife homes, rivers, water quality, and soil, and follow environmental rules. They make plans for planting new trees, watch over trees to make sure they’re growing well, and decide when it’s best to cut them down.
14. Botanist
Botanists, also known as plant scientists, study different aspects of plants and crops to improve their growth and health. They research breeding, how plants grow, how to make them produce more, and how to manage them.
They also look into the soil to understand its chemical, physical, and biological makeup and how it affects plant growth. Some botanists classify and map soils and check how different farming methods affect soil and crop health.
Botanists can work for a government agency, nature conservancy, nonprofit, and more.
15. Wind turbine technician
Wind turbine technicians work on the giant fans you see in fields or on hills (I’m sure you’ve seen these before; they are massive!). Their job is to make sure they’re in good shape to turn wind into power for people’s homes and businesses.
The number of jobs for wind turbine technicians is expected to increase by 45% from 2022 to 2032, which is a lot faster than the average for all jobs.
16. Solar energy specialist
Solar energy specialists work with solar technology to create electricity from the sun’s power.
Solar energy specialists know a lot about how solar panels work and help plan big solar power projects, choose the right equipment, and figure out the best place to put solar panels.
They may sell solar panel setups to homeowners and businesses, or even try to convert a whole community to solar power.
17. Arborist
Arborists take care of trees to help them live long and healthy lives.
Arborists climb trees, use power tools, and make sure trees are growing well. If a tree is sick, they figure out what’s wrong and how to fix it.
18. Organic farmer
If you love working outside and care about where food comes from, think about becoming an organic farmer. As an organic farmer, you get to grow food without using chemicals.
19. Camp counselor
If you enjoy spending time outdoors and love nature, being a camp counselor might be one of the best summer jobs for you. This is also one of the easier entry-level jobs in nature to start with.
A camp counselor’s days can be filled with fun activities like hiking, swimming, and crafting.
20. Zoologist
If you are looking for careers in nature and animals, then a zoologist may be a top choice.
I know for many kids such as myself, becoming a zoologist and working at the zoo was a nature career that I really wanted.
Zoologists study animals and wildlife to understand where they come from, how they behave, their diseases, genetics, and life functions. Some focus on researching and managing wildlife. They collect and analyze data on living things to see how land and water habitats are affected by human use.
You may get to work at a zoo, in an office, a laboratory, or for government agencies.
21. Field researcher
A field researcher explores and studies the environment.
Their main task is to learn about plants, animals, and the places they live. They take notes, take photos, and sometimes collect samples during their fieldwork. They may also use tools to measure things like temperature and water quality.
22. Surveyor
Surveyors get to work outside and play an important part in construction and mapping projects. They use tools like GPS, lasers, and robots to take precise measurements of the land.
Their main job is to find out where property lines are and to help create maps that builders and architects use to make sure everything fits and is in the right place.
I recently met someone who said they were a surveyor their entire life and had just recently retired. They were talking about all of the places that they had traveled to, and it sounded like a great nature career to be in.
Recommended reading: 40 Best Jobs Where You Work Alone
23. Adventure guide
As a guide, you may lead trips on many different kinds of adventures. You could specialize in hiking trips, camping trips, canyoneering, rock climbing, rafting, and more.
You may work for a local guiding company, or you may open your own guiding company.
This can be a great way to be in nature, have fun, and meet new people, all while making an income.
24. Tour guide
If you love nature and enjoy showing others the beauty of the outdoors, becoming a tour guide could be the perfect job for you. As a tour guide, you get to lead tours and share knowledge about your area with visitors from all around the world.
25. Ski instructor
Ski instructors get paid to spend their days on the slopes by teaching people how to ski. And, you don’t need to be a professional skier to get started with this job either – this is something you can get trained to do with on-the-job training.
26. Outdoor educator
An outdoor educator is someone who shows people how to enjoy the outdoors safely and responsibly.
Outdoor educators can work in different places like forests, parks, and even remote areas. Their office might be a trail in the mountains or a campsite near a beautiful lake.
27. Environmental health officer
An environmental health officer’s main job is to make sure that the places where people work are safe and don’t harm the environment.
They check out different locations, from offices to factories, and look for anything that might be dangerous.
28. Wildlife manager
A wildlife manager takes care of animals and makes sure they have a safe place to live.
Their job includes looking after animal homes called habitats and keeping track of the animals, making sure they are healthy.
They work in lots of different places like parks, forests, or even wildlife preserves.
29. Public health advocate
A public health advocate makes sure everyone has a healthy environment to live in. They work with all sorts of people to help protect the places they love, like parks and rivers, from pollution and other harm.
For example, they may work with community leaders to find the best ways to keep air and water clean, share important health info with the public, and help make laws that protect nature.
These types of jobs can typically be found in nonprofits or in the private sector, such as in environmental protection or in the private conservation sector, solving environmental issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to find the best jobs in nature.
Which job is best for nature lovers?
For nature lovers, being a park ranger tends to be the dream job. They get to spend their days outdoors, maintain the beauty of natural parks, and educate visitors about conserving these precious areas. There are many other amazing jobs in nature as well, such as becoming a nature photographer, a marine biologist, a guide, or a geologist.
What is the highest paying job in nature?
If you are able to run your own business in a nature field, then that may be the best way to make the most money in nature, such as by starting a nature photography business or an outdoors guiding company. If you are looking for the highest paying job in nature, then becoming a scientist may be the best way to make the most money.
What are the best jobs in nature without a degree?
You don’t need to be a scientist to get a nature job. The best jobs in nature without a degree may include nature photographer, outdoors guide, surveyor, and ski instructor.
Are there any careers focusing on animals and nature?
Yes, there are careers that let you work with both animals and nature, such as wildlife rehabilitation specialists who care for injured animals, or environmental educators who teach about wildlife conservation.
What wildlife job pays the most?
Jobs like wildlife biologist and zoologist typically pay the most in the wildlife sector. Salary can depend on experience and location, but the average yearly salary is usually around $60,000 and up.
What jobs involve nature and travel?
If you’re interested in traveling and working in nature, then you may want to become a field biologist or ecotourism guide. These jobs tend to need travel to different natural habitats and allow for hands-on work with the environment. Another option is to become a nature photographer and travel to take photos.
Best Jobs in Nature — Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article about the best jobs in nature.
There are many different jobs you can do in natural places, and there is something for all sorts of interests and abilities. Many of the jobs above have a competitive salary where you actually get to enjoy or believe in the work that you do.
Because I have traveled full-time for around a decade, I have met people who work in all sorts of different nature jobs over the years. From outdoors photography (I made a few friends who were National Geographic photographers, actually!) to surveyors, guides, scientists, and more, there are so many amazing people working in nature.
If you love nature, I hope you are able to find the best job in nature for you and your interests so that you can have the highest job satisfaction.
Looking for the best jobs that help people? Whether you are looking for a full-time job or a way to make extra income, there are many ways to make money by helping others. Picking a job that matches what you want to achieve personally and lets you help others can feel really good. In lots…
Looking for the best jobs that help people?
Whether you are looking for a full-time job or a way to make extra income, there are many ways to make money by helping others.
Picking a job that matches what you want to achieve personally and lets you help others can feel really good. In lots of different fields, jobs where you can help people have become very popular.
Whether it’s teaching, counseling, healthcare, or responding to emergencies, each job lets you change someone else’s life for the better. If you like the idea of helping out your community and giving assistance to those who need it, there are plenty of rewarding jobs that might be right for you.
Now, that doesn’t mean the jobs below are easy. While you may feel good knowing that you are helping people, many of these jobs are very hard. But, you will know that you are truly helping people and changing the world for the better.
30 Best Jobs That Help People
Below are 30 full-time and part-time jobs helping others in crisis, in your community and at homes.
1. Social worker
If you’re someone who likes to help others, becoming a social worker might be the perfect job for you. Social workers support people who face challenges in their lives. This could mean working with children, families, or even whole communities.
Social workers might work in schools, helping kids and families get through tough times, or in hospitals guiding patients through health challenges.
2. Teacher
A teacher’s job is about more than just giving lessons. The job is to guide and help students understand new information. When you teach, you make a real difference in the lives of your students.
Teachers work in different settings, such as at a public school, private institution, or even provide one-on-one education as a tutor. Some teachers work online too, which is a great option if you’re looking for more flexibility.
You can choose to become a kindergarten teacher, high school teacher, college instructor, or anything in between.
Recommended reading: 36 Best Side Jobs for Teachers To Make Extra Money
3. Nurse
Nurses play an important role in healthcare, helping people feel better and stay healthy.
I have met so many amazing nurses in my life, and it is such a helpful career path. I still very much remember all of the wonderful nurses who helped me when I was in the hospital giving birth to my daughter – these nurses were amazing and helped me so much, and I truly felt like they cared.
Nurses can work from home, in a hospital, or even in a law firm. A similar career path where you can help people is to become a nurse practitioner, with a higher salary and extra responsibilities.
Recommended reading: 27 Best Side Hustles For Nurses To Make Extra Money
4. Personal trainer
If you like staying active and want to help others, becoming a personal trainer could be a great fit for you.
As a personal trainer, you’ll get to work with people every day, helping them achieve their fitness goals. It’s not just about showing exercises; it’s about motivating and guiding people to live healthier lives.
Here are some of the things that personal trainers do:
Create workout plans.
Show people how to exercise correctly.
Keep track of a client’s progress.
Teach clients about healthy lifestyle choices.
Personal trainers are found in places like gyms, fitness centers, and sometimes they can even come to your home. Some trainers lead group classes, while others give one-on-one sessions.
5. Occupational therapist
An occupational therapist (OT) helps people of all ages do different activities that are important for their daily lives, work, school, and leisure. Some examples of occupational therapy include:
Dressing – OTs help individuals in selecting appropriate clothing and developing strategies to independently dress themselves.
Eating – OTs may recommend adaptive equipment or techniques to help individuals with feeding difficulties.
Household chores – They provide strategies to make household chores more manageable for individuals with physical or cognitive limitations.
Job tasks – OTs help individuals develop skills and strategies to perform job duties effectively and safely.
Community integration – They support individuals in participating in community events, clubs, and social gatherings.
As you can see, OTs help people in so many ways.
They work in places like hospitals, schools, or even patients’ homes are common spots for occupational therapists.
6. School counselor
School counselors play a big part in guiding students toward their future.
They help with class schedules, give advice, or plan big steps like going to college or finding a job. This job is important because school counselors help students do their best and feel good about themselves.
They also help in other ways, such as helping students who are going through a hard time in life, like helping them with handling a mental health issue or even dealing with the passing of a parent. They are very much needed in all schools!
7. Substance abuse counselor
Substance abuse counselors help people fight addiction and get their lives back on track. Their job is important because they guide people through tough times, showing them how to stay away from drugs or alcohol and live a healthier life.
They meet with people and listen to their stories, teach them new ways of dealing with problems without using substances, and support them as they make changes to better their lives.
8. Physician
Being a doctor is a way to make a big impact in your community, as everyone knows.
Depending on the specialty, they can check your health, find out what’s wrong when you’re sick, and give you the right medicine to help you feel better.
Doctors are important because they help us when we’re sick and also keep us healthy. They listen to our concerns, offer comfort, and provide treatments. This makes a big impact on many people’s lives every single day.
9. Lawyer
A lawyer’s main job is to protect the legal rights of their clients. This means giving advice based on the law and, sometimes, defending your client in court.
A lawyer might work at a large law firm, for businesses, or for everyday people with different problems. Lawyers tend to specialize in one area of law, like helping injured people, family issues, working with businesses, traffic tickets, and so on.
10. Paramedic
Paramedics are the people who arrive first when there’s a medical emergency.
Their job is to take care of people who are hurt or very sick, right there on the spot or while they’re on the way to the hospital for further treatment. They give first aid and other medical care, stay calm under pressure, and drive an ambulance if needed.
11. Firefighter
Firefighters are trained to fight fires and keep people, buildings, and nature safe. They rescue people and animals from burning buildings, help at accident scenes, and teach the public about staying safe from fires.
This is a tough job that every community needs.
12. Nutritionist
If you like helping people and love everything about food and health, think about becoming a nutritionist! A nutritionist is someone who helps people eat better and live healthier lives.
A nutritionist is a health expert who knows a lot about food and how it affects our bodies. They look at what people eat, their health goals, and make personalized plans to help them eat better. Nutritionists teach people about healthy eating, help with meal plans, and give support to make lasting changes in lifestyle.
They work in different places like schools, hospitals, or their own offices to help people be healthier through good nutrition.
13. Pediatric sleep consultant
Getting enough sleep is super important for babies and their parents. But sometimes, parents have trouble making sure their baby sleeps well.
This can lead to some parents getting nearly no sleep, and it impacts their life, their job, and their mental health.
That’s where pediatric sleep experts come in handy. They know a lot about helping kids sleep better, which helps families have better nights. If you really like working with kids and want to help them, becoming a sleep coach could be a great career option for you.
This is an area that so many parents need so that they can continue living their lives.
For me, I have taken many tips from pediatric sleep consultants so that I could help my child sleep better, and so that I in turn could get sleep as well. These were life-changing tips!
Recommended reading: How To Become A Sleep Consultant And Make $10,000 Each Month
14. Dentist
Dentists work with teeth and gums, and they help keep your mouth healthy as well as fix problems when they come up.
If you have a cavity, they can fill it. Or if you have something more serious, they can fix it too. Dentists tell you how to take care of your teeth so you can keep them strong and avoid future problems.
15. Psychologist
Psychologists help people deal with their feelings and thoughts by listening to people and understanding their problems. They work in schools, offices, and sometimes even online.
They ask questions, do tests, and figure out the best way to help people feel better.
16. Police dispatcher
Being a police dispatcher is an extremely important job that helps people in crisis.
Dispatchers have an important job in keeping communities safe and making sure everything runs smoothly. They answer emergency calls when you call 911 and send out the right help.
17. Police officer
Police officers in law enforcement keep areas safe by stopping crime and making sure laws are followed. They patrol the streets, keep an eye out for any trouble, and if someone calls for help or there’s an accident, police officers are the first to arrive.
A police officer’s work is very important for everyone’s safety. They are trained to handle many kinds of situations.
Some police officers have a degree in criminal justice, but not all have college degrees.
18. Massage therapist
Massage therapists use their skills to help relax tight muscles and ease pain. They work in many places like spas, hospitals, or sports centers.
This is a career path where you can make others feel physically better, relieve stress, and feel relaxed.
19. Speech and language therapist
Speech therapists (also known as speech-language pathologists) help people of all ages overcome difficulties with communication, as well as swallowing disorders.
Speech therapists work with children and adults who face challenges with speaking and understanding others, help those who have trouble eating or swallowing due to health issues, and create fun and engaging exercises to improve clients’ speech and language skills.
Many, many people use speech-language pathologists these days, especially for young children, and it is such a needed career path right now. Many cities have very long waitlists because there simply are not enough speech therapists, so this can be a very helpful career choice to get into.
20. Rehabilitation specialist
Rehabilitation specialists give support to those who need a little extra help due to health troubles like injuries or mental health challenges.
A day in the life of a rehabilitation specialist could include working with kids or adults, helping them with their skills to live a good life (kind of like teaching and cheering on someone as they learn or remember how to do important daily stuff).
These jobs are often found in places like hospitals, private clinics, or community centers.
21. Caregiver
Caregiving roles are very important careers that help people who really need it.
Caregivers play an important role in the lives of those who need help due to age, sickness, or disability. They provide support and company, making a real difference every day.
Caregivers do things like cook meals, drive people places, or just talk to make someone’s day brighter.
22. Home health aide
A home health aide is somewhat similar to a caregiver. Caregivers and home health aides both help people who need support with daily activities because of sickness, disability, or getting older. However, caregivers usually do a wider range of tasks like keeping people company, driving people places, cooking, and doing chores.
Home health aides focus more on personal care, such as helping with bathing, dressing, and reminding about medications. Home health aides often get formal training and might work under a nurse or another healthcare worker, while caregivers might not have formal training and often work on their own or for agencies.
Home health aides have an important job where they help people who need extra care to live comfortably in their homes. People like seniors or those with disabilities count on them to be there for them.
23. Translator
Translators connect people who speak different languages, and this job is important because they help people understand each other.
Translators work in many places. Some work in hospitals, making sure doctors and patients understand one another. Others translate books or websites, so everyone can enjoy stories or information, no matter what language they speak.
Many translation jobs let you work from home. Some jobs are full-time, and some are part-time. You can find what fits your life.
Recommended reading: 28 Ways To Get Paid To Text And Make Money
24. Environmental engineer
Environmental engineers figure out how to keep nature clean and safe. They sometimes work on projects that prevent pollution or create plans to fix damage that’s already been done, like cleaning up oil spills.
25. Pharmacist
Pharmacists know all about medicine, fill doctors’ prescriptions for patients, and explain how to take the medicine safely. This is a job that helps people because people need medicine in order to feel better.
Pharmacists work in pharmacies, drugstores, clinics, and hospitals.
26. Optometrist
Optometrists are eye doctors that help people see better. They check your eyes, find out if you need glasses or contacts, and can spot eye troubles before they become a bigger issue.
Eyes are important, of course, and so this is a job that definitely helps people.
27. Midwife
Becoming a midwife might be a great job for you if you enjoy helping people and have an interest in healthcare. Midwives are healthcare professionals who help women before, during, and after they have a baby.
Midwives work in different places, such as in a hospital, in a clinic, or visiting moms at their homes.
I had a midwife and doctor team for my pregnancy, and the midwife was amazing. She made me feel comfortable and was very friendly and calming.
28. Conservationist
Conservationists get to spend their days outdoors, helping plants and animals survive and stay healthy. They research and learn about different species and find ways for humans to live alongside them without causing harm.
The planet is home to incredible animals and places, but some are at risk. Conservationists help protect these natural wonders and make sure there are plenty of wild areas for animals to thrive in. They also work to keep the air and water clean for everyone to enjoy.
29. Dental hygienist
Dental hygienists are important in preventing and treating oral diseases. It’s more than just cleaning teeth.
They also teach patients how to take care of their mouth, show them the right way to brush and floss, and help them understand why oral health is so important.
30. Blogger
Okay, so I realize that this option is not like any of the rest.
But, I have personally helped thousands of people over the years with my blog, so I think being a blogger definitely helps people. I have received many emails and letters from readers who have said that I helped them pay off their debt, stop living paycheck to paycheck, reach retirement, and more.
With a blog, you can help people understand different topics, learn actionable tips, get motivated to reach their goals, and more.
If you enjoy writing and sharing stories or expertise, becoming a blogger might be right up your alley. A blogger creates content for a blog, which is an online space for posting thoughts, knowledge, and insights.
Your blog can become a helpful resource on topics you’re passionate about. Whether it’s cooking, personal finance, or even traveling, your words could be valuable to someone else.
I started Making Sense of Cents back in 2011. Since then, my blog has made over $5,000,000.
I didn’t plan to make money when I started the blog. It was just a way for me to keep track of my own money journey. At first, I didn’t even know people could make money from blogging or how to make a successful blog!
But after only six months, I started earning money from my blog.
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to find jobs that help people.
What is the best career to help others?
The best careers to help others include becoming a social worker, teacher, nurse, therapist, counselor, and firefighter.
What job helps people with their money?
Financial planners or advisors help people manage their money effectively. They provide advice on investments, savings, and budgeting to help individuals achieve their financial goals and secure their future financial stability.
What job can I do to make people happy?
Many of the jobs above can help people become happy, such as being a teacher, personal trainer, school counselor, nutritionist, pediatric sleep consultant, psychologist, and massage therapist.
What are some jobs that help people’s mental health?
Mental health counselors and therapists give support and treatment to people dealing with mental illnesses. They play an important part in improving their clients’ emotional and psychological well-being.
What are some creative jobs that help others?
Art therapists help people deal with stress, trauma, or sickness by using creative activities. They combine the healing power of art with counseling techniques to support healing and personal development.
What are jobs that help people in crisis?
Jobs that help people in crisis include substance abuse counselors, social workers, registered nurses, and art therapists.
What are jobs helping others without a degree?
A bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or doctoral degree is not required for all jobs that help people. For example, home health aides and personal care aides help people with daily tasks and give companionship. Typically, formal education is not required, but training and a caring personality are important to actually help people.
Best Jobs That Help People – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best jobs that help people.
When you think about jobs that help others, you might think of social work or healthcare right away.
But there’s a wide range of options, including jobs in teaching, therapy, public service, and even technical fields like translation or environmental engineering.
Each of these jobs is important for making our community better and healthier, often by working directly with people to make their lives better. These roles give more than just a paycheck – they give you the satisfaction of knowing that your work helps people outside of the office too.
What do you think are the best jobs that help people and pay well?
The Powerball jackpot rolled over yet again on Wednesday night and now stands at an estimated $1.23 billion, with its next drawing Saturday, April 6.
Meanwhile, a ticket bought in New Jersey was the sole winner of a $1.13 billion Mega Millions jackpot on March 26. It was the eighth-largest jackpot of all time.
Powerball: $1.23 billion estimated jackpot, next drawing Saturday, April 6.
Mega Millions: $67 million estimated jackpot, next drawing Friday, April 5.
How do I play the lottery?
Powerball and Mega Millions tickets are sold for $2 apiece in 45 U.S. states, as well as Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
To play Mega Millions, pick five numbers between 1 and 70, and a sixth number between 1 and 25. If you don’t want to pick the numbers yourself, you can get a set of numbers generated for you.
To play Powerball, pick five numbers between 1 and 69 and a Powerball number from 1 to 26 (or have them randomly generated).
If you plan to take part in an office lottery pool, consider taking these precautions.
How much is the Mega Millions jackpot?
The current jackpot is estimated at $67 million.
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Winners can opt to take their winnings in the form of an annuity or as a single lump sum, known as the cash option. The cash option for the current jackpot is estimated at $31 million.
By taking the annuity option, the winner would get the full jackpot advertised by Mega Millions, but it would be spread out in payments over 30 years.
No matter how lucky you are, you won’t get around paying taxes on a lottery jackpot. After mandatory federal income tax withholding, you’d have about $19.5 million if you took the cash option. How much more you’d pay come tax time can depend on where you bought the ticket — and where you live, if that’s another state. To prepare, make sure you know the ins and outs of how the lottery works.
When is the next Mega Millions drawing?
The winning numbers will be drawn Friday, April 5 at 11 p.m. Eastern Time.
If there’s still no jackpot winner, the grand prize will continue to grow.
The odds of winning the jackpot are roughly 1 in 303 million.
How much is the next Powerball jackpot?
The current jackpot is estimated at $1.23 billion.
Like Mega Millions, winners of Powerball can choose between an annuity that pays out over 30 years or a single lump sum. The cash option for the current jackpot is $595.1 million. After mandatory federal taxes, the holder of a single winning ticket would keep about $374.9 million, minus any state taxes.
When is the next Powerball drawing?
The winning numbers will be drawn Saturday, April 6 at 11 p.m. Eastern Time.
If there’s still no jackpot winner, the grand prize will continue to grow.
The odds of winning the jackpot are roughly 1 in 292 million.
The jackpot isn’t the only way to win. Both games have prizes for ticket holders whose chosen numbers match the drawing in a variety of combinations.
10 largest lottery jackpots
$2.04 billion (Powerball, Nov. 8, 2022 — one winning ticket).
$1.765 billion (Powerball, Oct. 11, 2023 — one winning ticket).
$1.586 billion (Powerball, Jan. 13, 2016 — three winning tickets).
$1.58 billion (Mega Millions, Aug. 8, 2023 — one winning ticket).
The Department of Housing and Urban Development announced an upcoming sale of vacant loans secured by home equity conversion mortgages.
HVLS 2024-2 will be up for bid on May 7 and comprises approximately 1,265 notes with loan balances of close to $346 million. The sale consists of due and payable residential loans secured by first-lien HECMs, where borrowers and non-borrowing spouses are now deceased, the announcement from HUD’s office of asset sales said.
Nonprofits, government agencies and for-profit businesses, are all eligible to bid in the sale. HUD will also consider offers from joint ventures and other partnerships between various enterprises.
HUD vacant loan sales, which were first introduced in 2016, emerged as a means to help increase supply through the disposition of assets. As much as 50% of an offering is sometimes prioritized for nonprofit and government organizations in hopes of providing housing, including homeownership opportunities for residents making under 120% of area median income. Unlike prior HVLS auctions, no mention was made of designated allotment for specific buyer segments in the latest announcement.
Through the first half of 2023, nonprofits have purchased 28% of all HVLS loans for sale since the program’s launch, HUD said in a report late last year. Settled loan count totaled 10,280.
An approximate 52% share of loans sold through HVLS come from 10 states. Florida headed the list with 13%, with Texas in second place at 7%. California, Illinois and New York all followed at 5% each.
The latest sale comes as home affordability and inventory issues rise in the public consciousness, after President Biden made the country’s housing situation a key talking point in his recent State of the Union address. The creation of more units has been a focus in the Biden Administration’s housing action plan, first announced a year ago. At the end of 2020, Freddie Mac estimated the U.S. was short 3.8 million units to adequately meet demand.
HECMs, a Federal Housing Administration-backed product offered to homeowners 62 or older, allows older borrowers to tap into home equity as they age, and are assigned to HUD from prior servicers when balances reach 98% of maximum claim amounts. Rather than foreclose on homes when borrowers are deceased, the agency puts loans up for sale to avoid disposition costs and help the housing industry generate supply.
Finance of America currently comes in as the country’ top HECM originator with almost one-third of overall volume, according to data from Reverse Market Insight. Mutual of Omaha Mortgage comes in second with about 22% of originations.
We have all seen horror stories on the news or social media when a squatter moves into a vacant house or rental property and the unlucky owners cannot get rid of them. That happened to me and it was not a fun time. Luckily it provided some great content for my YouTube channel which helped offset the cost of those squatters. I was also fortunate that I did not have to deal with the squatters for years or even more than 6 months as many people do. How long it takes to get rid of squatters can depend on the state, county, or town you reside in. While I was able to get rid of the squatters, I could have done a few things differently that may have forced them out sooner.
Table of Contents
How did I get squatters?
I own an 8-unit apartment building that I call the Ocho. I bought this property a couple of years ago and it came with some tenants who were not amazing. One of those tenants had been behind on rent a few times and caused some other issues so we decided not to renew their lease. That tenant said they were planning to move out of state so it worked out for everyone, or so we thought.
Below is the actual eviction
We gave them notice and about 20 days later they said they would be out and would drop off the keys. Those keys never showed up. We called a few times and we got the same story. They were almost done moving out and would have keys to us soon. The keys never showed up and then the story from the tenant changed. They said they were all moved out but their sister was at the house cleaning for a day. She claimed the sister would drop off the keys soon. I knew this story was not going to end well.
I stopped by the property and talked to the “sister” who was at the property. There was also another lady and maybe more people in the apartment and they did not look like they were cleaning. They said they would be out the next day and would drop off the keys. Big surprise they did not show up so I stopped by the apartment again to see what was going on and I got the same story. Luckily we had already posted a stay or quit notice when the first tenant had said they were bringing keys and never did because they never paid rent for the next month after they were supposed to have moved.
I knew the sister was not going to leave but evictions are expensive and we try to avoid them. I told her I would pay her $200 if she could be out by the end of the week. She agreed and said she would be out and get us the keys. That day came and she said she was out so I stopped by the property. To my surprise, she was out! However, there were at least three new people in the apartment who I had never seen before.
I was hesitant to talk to them because they did not look like they wanted to talk to me but I really wanted them out. I walked over and one of them came out of the apartment. He claimed to be the ex-boyfriend of the original tenant and said the “sister” was his sister and not related to the tenant. He claimed he had moved in because he used to live here with the original tenant and the electric bill was in his name. However, he was never on the lease and we had never seen him or talked to him before. He also showed me a massive cut on his arm he said he got from being stabbed recently but decided he didn’t need to go to the hospital so he taped it shut.
I told him he couldn’t stay and he needed to leave. He gave me all kinds of stories like he approved to get rent money from COVID funds, he said he talked to my office and they said he could stay, and he said his ex said he could be there. None of these stories checked out. I even called the ex who he claimed told him he could stay and asked her about it. She confirmed no one should be there and one reason she is moving out of state is this guy. Some other people came out of the apartment and said they would start paying rent too and had jobs but they hadn’t been paid yet. Even if they had money, I would never take it as that could constitute a lease!
It was clear they were not going to leave. Unfortunately, while I was talking to them the server for the eviction came by and posted the notice that said they had another ten days until the court date for the eviction. They all thought that meant they could stay! I thought about calling the cops and I should have even though they may not have done anything in this situation. Technically they were trespassing but they also had the keys and cops tend to try to stay out of these situations.
I decided to leave and pursue the eviction since it was coming up.
The eviction hearing
I always use an attorney to handle all of my evictions because I have tried it on my own and I never fill out the paperwork right and it costs me more time and money than an attorney would have cost me. I let my attorney take care of it and waited for him to tell me when the eviction date would be. I got a call from the attorney and he said the eviction was not granted! I could not believe it. He said the squatters showed up to the hearing which was a Zoom call because of covid and the judge granted them a 30-day extension because “they had nowhere to go”.
Looking back on this I should have gone to the hearing. I do not know if it would have helped but I could have told the story and what happened and maybe the judge would not have made that decision. As it was, I now had to wait 30 days or hope they moved out which they were not going to do. I drove by all the time and saw more people in and around the unit. I wanted them out so bad, not just because I feared they were destroying the place but because of the other tenants in the building as well.
Another eviction hearing
I showed up to the next hearing and my attorney and I waited for the judge who hopped on the Zoom call about 10 minutes late. The squatters were not on the call. The judge made us wait another 15 minutes for them to show and he seemed disappointed that they never did. He finally ruled the eviction would proceed since they did not show up. We finally got the eviction scheduled with the sheriff for three weeks out.
Time drug on for what seemed like forever and the eviction day finally came. I showed up with my crew because Colorado requires ten people to be there so they can move everything out in an hour. The sheriff’s deputies serve the notice and make sure everyone is safe. I know the deputies and they are really cool. I could not tell if the squatters were still there but I would think they wouldn’t be because I was guessing they didn’t want any contact with law enforcement.
I was wrong! They were still there and it took them 15 minutes to answer the door. The deputies talked to them and they had not moved anything out. We all decided to give them 10 minutes to move what they could and then we would move the rest. I got in the property and it was dirty but thankfully not destroyed. The tenants moved their stuff into their car and left. I never saw them again. The rest of the stuff we left in the yard for 24 hours per Colorado law and disposed of after that.
This could have been much worse based on what I see in other states but it was still frustrating waiting months for the eviction and not getting any rent.
Another squatter eviction we did:
How to get squatters out
There are a few things I could have done better and some things others can do to avoid long squatter situations as well.
If you have vacant properties check on them often! A vacant property is a target for squatters and vandalism.
If you see someone on your property who should not be there call the police immediately. The police may or may not do anything but you still need to try. Some squatters may not want police contact and may leave if they come. The police may say it’s a civil matter or not their problem but remind them it is trespassing and illegal. If you let squatters stay too long without reporting them it makes it much more difficult to get rid of them.
If there are squatters with no lease, create a document stating the people in the property have no lease and no permission to be in the property. Get this statement notarized and bring it with a copy of the Deed showing the true owner does not have any lease with the squatters in case the squatters provide a fake lease.
If you think something fishy is going on with your tenants, schedule an inspection. Most leases should have a clause that the landlord can inspect the property with notice. If they won’t let you in, that could be grounds for eviction.
If tenants are not paying or are supposed to leave and not leaving, start the eviction process as soon as possible.
In extreme situations, you can try offering cash for keys, or money for them to move. Never pay them before they are out and give you the keys.
Be careful accepting any money or rent as that could give them legal grounds to stay even if they do not have a formal lease.
If an eviction hearing is scheduled it doesn’t hurt to show up yourself to give insight into the situation. Just don’t lose your cool or make it worse.
Don’t do anything illegal like bring enforcers to physically remove people. Talk to an attorney and check state laws to make sure you don’t give the judge or squatters a reason to stay.
If you are in a really tricky situation with state laws and police who will not help, turn to social media or neighbors. Tell your story and the more attention you get, the more likely you can get your situation resolved. Again, stay within the law, stay calm, and don’t make it worse.
Be careful about rekeying properties or trying to force them out on your own.
Conclusion
A lot of people think that because they own the property they can do whatever they want, however, that is not the case. When you rent to someone or give them permission to be in the property they have gained rights to that property. If they live there they are in possession of the property and you cannot simply force them to move or rekey the property. Be sure to talk to a lawyer and check with state laws when you encounter a situation like this. Each state has different laws and eviction processes so just because you see someone else do it, doesn’t make it legal. I hope you never have to encounter a situation like this but if you do act fast and don’t give up!
Real estate investing can be an effective way to hedge against the effects of inflation in a portfolio while generating a steady stream of income. When it comes to how to invest in real estate, there’s no single path to entry.
Where you decide to get started can ultimately depend on how much money you have to invest, your risk tolerance, and how hands-on you want to be when managing real estate investments.
Why Invest in Real Estate?
Real estate investing can yield numerous benefits, for new and seasoned investors alike. Here are some of the main advantages to consider with property investments.
• Real estate can diversify your portfolio, allowing you to better balance risk and rewards.
• Provides the opportunity to generate investment returns outside of owning securities such as stocks, ETFs, or bonds.
• Historically, real estate is often seen as a hedge against inflation, since property prices tend to increase in tandem with price increases for other consumer goods and services.
• Owning real estate investments can allow you to generate a steady stream of passive income in the form of rents or dividends.
• Rental property ownership can include some tax breaks since the IRS allows you to deduct ordinary and necessary expenses related to operating the property.
• Real estate may appreciate significantly over time, which could result in a sizable gain should you decide to sell it. However, real estate can also depreciate in value, leading to a possible loss or negative return. Investors should know that the real estate market is different than the stock market, and adjust their expectations accordingly.
There’s one more thing that makes real estate investing for beginners particularly attractive: There are many ways to do it, which means you can choose investments that are best suited to your needs and goals.
💡 Quick Tip: While investing directly in alternative assets often requires high minimum amounts, investing in alts through a mutual fund or ETF generally involves a low minimum requirement, making them accessible to retail investors.
Alternative investments, now for the rest of us.
Start trading funds that include commodities, private credit, real estate, venture capital, and more.
7 Ways to Invest in Real Estate
Real estate investments can take different forms, some of which require direct property ownership and others that don’t. As you compare different real estate investments, here are some important things to weigh:
• Minimum investment requirements
• Any fees you might pay to own the investment
• Holding periods
• Past performance and expected returns
• Investment-specific risk factors
With those things in mind, here are seven ways to get started with real estate investing for beginners.
1. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
A real estate investment trust (REIT) is a company that owns and operates income-producing properties. The types of properties you might find in a REIT include warehouses, storage facilities, shopping centers, and office space. A REIT may also own mortgages or mortgage-backed securities.
REITs allow investors to enjoy the benefits of property ownership without having to buy a building or land. Specifically, that means steady income as REITs are required to pay out 90% of taxable income annually to shareholders in the form of dividends. Most REIT dividends are considered to be ordinary income for tax purposes.
Many REITs are publicly traded on an exchange just like a stock. That means you can buy shares through your brokerage account if you have one, making it relatively easy to add REITs to your portfolio. Remember to consider any commission fees you might pay to trade REIT shares in your brokerage account.
2. Real Estate Funds
Real estate funds are mutual funds that own a basket of securities. Depending on the fund’s investment strategy, that may include:
• Individual commercial properties
• REITs
• Mortgages and mortgage-backed securities
Mutual funds also trade on stock exchanges, just like REITs. One of the key differences is that mutual funds are not required to pay out dividends to investors, though they can do so.
Instead, real estate funds aim to provide value to investors in the form of capital appreciation. A real estate fund may buy and hold property investments for the long term, in anticipation of those investments increasing in value over time.
Investing in a real estate fund vs. REIT could offer broader exposure to a wider range of property types or investments. A REIT, for instance, may invest only in hotels and resorts whereas a real estate mutual fund may diversify with hotels, office space, retail centers, and other property types.
3. REIT ETFs
A REIT ETF or exchange-traded fund is similar to a mutual fund, but the difference is that it trades on an exchange just like a stock. There’s also a difference between REIT ETFs and real estate mutual funds regarding what they invest in. With a REIT ETF, holdings are primarily concentrated on real estate investment trusts only.
That means you could buy a single REIT ETF and gain exposure to 10, 20 or more REITs in one investment vehicle.
Some of the main advantages of choosing a REIT ETF vs. real estate funds or individual REITs include:
• Increased tax efficiency
• Lower expense ratios
• Potential for higher returns
A REIT ETF may also offer a lower minimum investment than a REIT or real estate fund, which could make it suitable for beginning investors who are working with a smaller amount of capital.
But along with those advantages, investors should know about some of the potential drawbacks:
• ETF values may be sensitive to interest rate changes
• REIT ETFs may experience volatility related to property trends
• REIT ETFs may be subject to several other types of risk, such as management and liquidity risk more so than other types of ETFs.
As always, investors should consider the risks along with the potential advantages of any investment.
4. Real Estate Crowdfunding
Real estate crowdfunding platforms allow multiple investors to come together and pool funds to fund property investments. The minimum investment may be as low as $500, depending on which platform you’re using, and if you have enough cash to invest you could fund multiple projects.
Compared to REITs, REIT ETFs, or real estate funds, crowdfunding is less liquid since there’s usually a required minimum holding period you’re expected to commit to. That’s important to know if you’re not looking to tie up substantial amounts of money for several years.
You’ll also need to meet a platform’s requirements before you can invest. Some crowdfunding platforms only accept accredited investors. To be accredited, you must:
• Have a net worth over $1 million, excluding your primary residence, OR
• Have an income of $200,000 ($300,000 if married) for each of the prior two years, with the expectation of future income at the same level
You can also qualify as accredited if you hold a Series 7, Series 65, or Series 82 securities license.
5. Rental Properties
Buying a rental property can help you create a long-term stream of income if you’re able to keep tenants in the home. Some of the ways you could generate rental income with real estate include:
• Buying a second home and renting it out to long-term tenants
• Buying a vacation home and renting it to short-term or seasonal tenants
• Purchasing a multi-unit property, such as a duplex or triplex, and renting to multiple tenants
• Renting a room in your home
But recognize the risks or downsides associated with rental properties, too:
• Negative cash flow resulting from tenancy problems
• Problem tenants
• Lack of liquidity
• Maintenance costs and property taxes
Further, the biggest consideration with rental properties usually revolves around how you’re going to finance a property purchase. You might try for a conventional mortgage, an FHA loan if you’re buying a multifamily home and plan to live in one of the units, a home equity loan or HELOC if you own a primary residence, or seller financing.
Each one has different credit, income, and down payment requirements. Weighing the pros and cons of each one can help you decide which financing option might be best.
6. Fix and Flip Properties
With fix-and-flip investments, you buy a property to renovate and then resell it for (ideally) a large profit. Becoming a house flipper could be lucrative if you’re able to buy properties low, then sell high, but it does take some knowledge of the local market you plan to sell in.
You’ll also have to think about who’s going to handle the renovations. Doing them yourself means you don’t have to spend any money hiring contractors, but if you’re not experienced with home improvements you could end up making more work for yourself in the long run.
If you’re looking for a financing option, hard money loans are one possibility. These loans let you borrow enough to cover the purchase price of the home and your estimated improvements, and make interest-only payments. However, these loans typically have terms ranging from 9 to 18 months so you’ll need to be fairly certain you can sell the property within that time frame.
7. Invest in Your Own Home
If you own a home, you could treat it as an investment on its own. Making improvements to your property that raise its value, for example, could pay off later should you decide to sell it. You may also be able to claim a tax break for the interest you pay on your mortgage.
Don’t own a home yet? Understanding what you need to qualify for a mortgage is a good place to start. Once you’re financially ready to buy, you can take the next step and shop around for the best mortgage lenders.
How to Know If Investing in Real Estate Is a Good Idea for You
Is real estate investing right for everyone? Not necessarily, as every investor’s goals are different. Asking yourself these questions can help you determine where real estate might fit into your portfolio:
• How much money are you able and willing to invest in real estate?
• What is your main goal or reason for considering property investments?
• If you’re interested in rental properties, will you oversee their management yourself or hire a property management company? How much income would you need them to generate?
• If you’re considering a fix-and-flip, can you make the necessary commitment of time and sweat equity to get the property ready to list?
• How will you finance a rental or fix-and-flip if you’re thinking of pursuing either one?
• If you’re thinking of choosing REITs, real estate crowdfunding, or REIT ETFs, how long do you anticipate holding them in your portfolio?
• How much risk do you feel comfortable with, and what do you perceive as the biggest risks of real estate investing?
Talking to a financial advisor may be helpful if you’re wondering how real estate investments might affect your tax situation, or have a bigger goal in mind, like generating enough passive income from investments to retire early.
💡 Quick Tip: When you’re actively investing in stocks, it’s important to ask what types of fees you might have to pay. For example, brokers may charge a flat fee for trading stocks, or require some commission for every trade. Taking the time to manage investment costs can be beneficial over the long term.
The Takeaway
Real estate investing is one of the most attractive alternative investments for portfolio diversification. While you might assume that property investing is only for the super-rich, it’s not as difficult to get started as you might think. Keep in mind that, depending on how much money you have to invest initially and the degree of risk you’re comfortable taking, you’re not just limited to one option when building out your portfolio with real estate.
Ready to expand your portfolio’s growth potential? Alternative investments, traditionally available to high-net-worth individuals, are accessible to everyday investors on SoFi’s easy-to-use platform. Investments in commodities, real estate, venture capital, and more are now within reach. Alternative investments can be high risk, so it’s important to consider your portfolio goals and risk tolerance to determine if they’re right for you.
Invest in alts to take your portfolio beyond stocks and bonds.
FAQ
How Can I Invest in Property With Little Money?
If you don’t have a lot of money to invest in property, you might consider real estate investment trusts or real estate ETFs for your first investments. REITs and ETFs can offer lower barriers to entry versus something like purchasing a rental property or a fix-and-flip property.
Is Real Estate Investing Worth It?
Real estate investing can be worth it if you’re able to generate steady cash flow and income, hedge against inflation, enjoy tax breaks, and/or earn above-average returns. Whether investing in real estate is worth it for you can depend on what your goals are, how much money you have to invest, and how much time you’re willing to commit to managing those investments.
Is Investing in Real Estate Better Than Stocks?
Real estate tends to have a low correlation with stocks, meaning that what happens in the stock market doesn’t necessarily affect what happens in the property markets. Investing in real estate can also be attractive for investors who are looking for a way to hedge against the effects of inflation over the long term.
Is Investing in Real Estate Safer Than Stocks?
Just like stocks, real estate investments carry risk meaning one isn’t necessarily safer than the other. Investing in both real estate and stocks can help you create a well-rounded portfolio, as the risk/reward profile for each one isn’t the same.
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