You can actually get paid to go to college. Did you know that? Scholarships, grants, and loans can help, but some programs offer direct payments for attending school. This article will explore the best ways to earn money while studying and provide tips to maximize these opportunities.
Federal Work-Study Program
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The Federal Work-Study Program offers part-time jobs for students with financial need. It helps cover college expenses while providing valuable work experience. By participating, you can earn money to pay for tuition, books, and living costs, reducing reliance on student loans.
Find Tuition-Free Schools
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Tuition-free schools offer financial aid and scholarships covering the entire cost of attendance. While they often have strict requirements, they provide an opportunity to attend college without accumulating student loan debt. Researching and meeting eligibility criteria can help you access these programs and save money on your education.
Learn More: How to Pay for College Without Loans and Student Debt
Scholarships
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Scholarships provide financial assistance to college students, reducing the need for student loans. With numerous scholarships available, students can access funds for tuition, books, and living expenses. By applying for scholarships, you can secure additional income to support your college education and minimize the financial burden.
Learn More: What is the Scholarship System? Plus Q&A with the Founder
Military Tuition Benefits Program
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The Military Tuition Benefits Program assists service members and veterans in paying for college. It covers tuition, fees, and other educational expenses, reducing reliance on student loans. By fulfilling military service requirements, you can access financial assistance and pursue your education without accumulating significant debt.
College Tuition Reimbursement Programs
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Corporate tuition reimbursement programs offer financial support for employees pursuing higher education. Employees can receive reimbursement for tuition costs, minimizing the need for student loans. By taking advantage of these programs, you can invest in your education without incurring substantial debt, enhancing your earning potential and career advancement opportunities.
Learn More: How to Pay for College Without Parents Help
Pell Grant Program
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The Pell Grant Program provides federal financial aid to eligible undergraduates based on financial need. By completing the FAFSA, students can access Pell Grants to cover college expenses without relying on student loans. This program offers essential support for students pursuing higher education, helping them achieve their academic goals and minimize financial stress.
Learn More: Do You Have to Pay Back Financial Aid? FAFSA Answers
Teacher Education Assistance for College Students (TEACRS) Program
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The TEACH Grant Program offers financial aid to students pursuing careers in education. By serving in high-need areas, such as low-income schools, students can access grant funding to cover college expenses. This program supports aspiring educators, enabling them to pursue their passion without accumulating excessive student loan debt.
Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP)
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The HPSP provides scholarships to individuals pursuing careers in the health professions. By joining the Armed Forces, recipients receive financial support for tuition, fees, and living expenses. This program offers valuable training and experience while reducing the financial burden of higher education, making it an attractive option for students seeking to minimize student loan debt.
Internships
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Internships provide students with real-world experience and potential income opportunities. Paid internships offer compensation while helping students gain industry knowledge and build professional networks. By securing paid internships, students can earn money to support their college education, reducing reliance on student loans and enhancing their career prospects upon graduation.
Learn More: Best Side Hustles for College Students: Ideas for Fast Money
Ask For Tuition Discounts
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Requesting tuition discounts can lower the cost of college education. Many colleges offer discounts based on financial need or academic performance. By researching discount policies and reaching out to financial aid offices, students can access additional funding to cover college expenses. This proactive approach helps minimize student loan debt and maximize financial support for higher education.
More Ideas on How to Get Paid to Go to School
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Discover additional strategies to earn money while attending college. Explore various opportunities, including scholarships, grants, internships, and tuition discounts, to minimize reliance on student loans and enhance your financial well-being. With careful planning and resourcefulness, you can achieve your educational goals while mitigating the financial challenges associated with higher education.
To learn more: How to Get Paid to Go to School: 18 Ways to Get Paid to Attend College
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Income verification documents, which are typically requested when you’re applying to rent a home or apartment, are documents that prove you have a job and are earning an income.
A landlord requests these documents to ensure that you’re earning enough to cover your rent payments each month. The income verification paperwork requested may vary from landlord to landlord, and the documents may also differ, depending on your specific career situation. The landlord is simply doing their due diligence to make sure you can afford the rental.
Table of Contents
Key Points
• Income verification documents are required by landlords to confirm a potential tenant’s ability to pay rent.
• Common documents include pay stubs, tax returns or W2 forms, and bank statements.
• For self-employed individuals, 1099 forms or personal tax returns may be necessary.
• Additional proof like a letter from an employer can also be used to verify income.
• These documents help ensure that the rent does not exceed a reasonable portion of the tenant’s income.
How to Show Proof of Income to Rent an Apartment
There are a number of ways that prospective renters can show proof of income to a prospective landlord or property management company. The types of documents you need to produce will likely depend on the specific request from the landlord.
Generally, there are a few standard income verification documents that landlords and property managers are looking for:
• Pay stubs
• Tax returns or W2 forms
• Bank statements
• A letter from your employer
Typically, a landlord will request two forms of income verification. Often, your pay stubs and tax forms will suffice as proof of income. But in some cases, you may need to submit several months’ worth of bank statements. You might even need to ask your employer to write you a letter to assure the landlord that you have a job and do have income.
How to Show Proof of Income if You’re Self-Employed
If you’re self-employed, the process can be more complicated. You may need to submit 1099 tax forms or your personal tax returns showing regular and steady income going back a couple of years. Depending on the nature of your self-employment, you may have business tax returns, such as a Schedule C if you own and run a small business, that you can use to verify your income.
You can also use bank statements from your business bank account to show a landlord that you have income. The documents required will likely be similar to those you need when applying for self-employed personal loans. Ask the landlord what will work best for them so you will know exactly what documents you should present.
How to Show Proof of Income for Side Hustles
You may have a side hustle — perhaps you make and sell crafts online, for instance — and that’s similar to owning a small business. And you should be reporting the income you make from your side hustle to the IRS on your tax return. By presenting your tax return to a landlord, you can prove that you’re making side hustle income.
If you’re working for a ridesharing app or food delivery service, the company should be sending you a tax statement with your annual earnings so that you can report them on your tax return. You can always show a copy of that tax statement to a prospective landlord.
Why Proof of Income is Important
Proving your income is important when you rent an apartment — or apply for credit, for that matter — because it shows that you have money coming in every month, and are able to fulfill your financial obligations. In other words, it shows the property owner that you can make your rent payments.
Recommended: What Is The Difference Between Transunion and Equifax?
Understanding Rent-to-Income Ratio
Along with proving your income, you need to make sure that your rent is not eating up too much of your paycheck. That’s where the “rent-to-income ratio” comes into play. It calculates the percentage of your total income that you’re spending on rent.
The general rule of thumb is that you shouldn’t spend more than 30% of your gross monthly income on housing costs. Depending on where you live, those costs may be a higher or lower percentage of your income, but try to aim for around 30%. An online money tracker can help you keep tabs on your spending.
To figure out your rent-to-income ratio, divide your total annual earnings by 12, which gives you your monthly earnings, and multiply that number by 0.3 (or 30%). The result is how much you can afford to spend on rent per month.
Annual earnings ÷ 12 x 0.3 = How much you can afford to pay for rent
For example, let’s say you earn $50,000 a year. Divide that number by 12 and multiply it by 0.3 and you get $1,250. That’s what you should aim to spend on rent each month. Depending on where you live, you may need to spend more, but that figure gives you a ballpark of where you should be in order to have enough money to pay for your other expenses and hopefully, contribute to your savings as well.
How to Best Prepare to Pay Rent
When you are approved by a landlord to rent an apartment, you’ll need to plan and prepare to pay your rent on time and in full every month.
That means having your finances in order. First, you should have a checking account set up. Typically, you’ll pay your landlord by check or through an online portal and either way, you’ll need a bank account in order to do this. You may be surprised to learn that more than 6% of U.S. households (or more than 14 million people) don’t have a bank account. Fortunately, it’s easy to open a bank account if you don’t have one.
Next, make sure that you’re properly budgeting for your rental expenses. You want to make sure that you have enough money in your account to cover the rent when your landlord cashes your check. A budget planner app can help.
There are other expenses that can go along with renting an apartment or home that you may need to pay. Here are a few you should be aware of:
• Utility bills
• Renters insurance
• Parking, maintenance, and fees for amenities such as a gym or pool
Finally, know the terms of your lease. It’s common for rent to go up once a lease expires, which you may discover when you go to re-sign or renegotiate the rent. Unfortunately, renting is not like a fixed-rate mortgage when you have a monthly rate locked in. So don’t be surprised if the costs of staying in your apartment go up after your lease expires.
The Takeaway
Income verification documents offer proof to a landlord or property management company that you have enough money coming in every month to pay the cost of an apartment or home rental. Typically, pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements are the only forms of documentation you need. However, if you are a small business owner, you may be required to produce additional documents. The good news: Once you are approved to rent, you can start the process of moving in.
Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.
SoFi helps you stay on top of your finances.
FAQ
Can you rent an apartment with no income?
It is possible to rent an apartment with no income, though it likely will be quite difficult. In this instance, having a high credit score can help, because it shows you have a track record of paying your expenses. A healthy savings account can also be useful to prove you have money in the bank.
Can proof of income for an apartment be faked?
It is possible to fake proof of income for an apartment by using online tools to create fake pay stubs and other documents. This constitutes fraud and is illegal, but it does happen.
Is proof of income different for a student?
Yes, it can be, yes. If a student has no income because they are studying full-time, they may need to get a co-signer like a parent or guarantor in order to secure a lease.
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Whether you’re looking at homes for sale in Charlotte, NC, already renting a home in Atlanta, GA, or looking for your first apartment in Charleston, SC, decorating your child’s room is no easy feat. Their rooms are more than just a place to sleep; it’s a space where they can play, learn, and grow. Designing a kids’ room requires careful consideration of their current needs and future growth, ensuring the space is adaptable and flexible.
From selecting the right color palette to incorporating educational elements and ensuring the room is safe and organized, every detail contributes to creating an environment that nurtures your child’s development and happiness. Taryn Pratt reminds moms and parents alike to keep an open mind when curating a kids’ space. “Don’t underestimate what you can transform your spaces into,” Pratt shares. “Simple is best. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to make your room look nice.”
Inspiring and practical kids’ room ideas
Whether you’re designing a nursery for a newborn, creating a fun and functional space for a toddler, or updating a room to suit the evolving tastes of an older child, these inspiring and practical kids’ room ideas will help you transform a simple room into a magical haven that your child will love and cherish.
1. Embrace fun
Before diving into the journey of decorating your kid’s room, it’s important to channel the fun spirit of kids. “Kids are passionate about their favorite characters and interests, making their interests the center of the decorating = FUN,” Eboni with CR8JOI shares. “Whether it’s Batman, Barbie, sports, or a particular trending “aesthetic”- use toys and color to bring the theme to life. Since childhood interests change like the wind, focus on elements that can be easily updated. A themed pillow or picture, for example, can be easily swapped out. A themed room can be a joy-filled space where their creativity can shine.”
2. Themed rooms
Themed rooms, like Eboni shared above, can ignite your child’s imagination and make their space uniquely theirs. These spaces can provide a sense of adventure and excitement, creating an environment that stimulates creativity and play. Themes can also serve as an educational tool, teaching children about different worlds and concepts.
Space explorer: Use starry wallpapers to give the illusion of outer space, along with glow-in-the-dark ceiling stickers of planets and constellations. A spaceship bed can become the centerpiece, making bedtime an intergalactic adventure. Incorporate elements like moon and star-shaped cushions and posters of astronauts and spacecraft.
Nature lover: Create a forest ambiance with treehouse beds and leaf-shaped rugs. Wall decals of animals, trees, and birds can make the room feel like a walk in the woods. Consider adding a small indoor tent or a reading nook with a nature-themed design to enhance the outdoor feel.
Fairy tale: Canopy beds draped with soft, flowing fabrics can evoke a princess’s castle or a knight’s tent. Pastel colors and whimsical furniture like mushroom stools and fairy lights can transform the room into a magical kingdom. Add storybook characters on the walls and a treasure chest for toy storage.
3. Educational spaces
Incorporating educational elements into your child’s room can promote learning and curiosity. This approach ensures that learning is seamlessly integrated into daily activities, fostering a love for knowledge from a young age.
World maps: Use wallpaper or decals featuring world maps to teach geography. This can be both decorative and educational, helping children learn about different countries, continents, and oceans. Add interactive elements like map pins or stickers to mark places they’ve learned about or visited.
Bookshelves: Accessible bookshelves filled with age-appropriate books encourage reading and independence. Organize books by theme or reading level, and create a cozy reading corner with comfortable seating and good lighting to make reading time enjoyable.
4. Multi-functional furniture
Kids’ rooms often require flexibility as they grow. Multi-functional furniture can adapt to their changing needs, maximizing space and usability. Investing in versatile pieces can save money and space in the long run.
Bunk beds with desks: Ideal for shared rooms or small spaces, bunk beds with built-in desks provide sleeping, studying, and storage areas. The desk underneath can be used for homework, art projects, or computer time, making efficient use of vertical space.
Convertible cribs: Cribs that transform into toddler beds and later into daybeds or full-sized beds grow with your child. “Kids grow fast,” shares Mikayla Taylor. “Opt for an heirloom-quality convertible crib. With this crib, you can update your kids’ room with each stage up to a full-size bed. It’s a nice keepsake to remember those precious baby days as your child grows.” This adaptability ensures that the bed remains a fixture in the room for many years, making it a smart investment.
5. Creative storage solutions
A well-organized room can make playtime and cleanup easier. Creative storage solutions help keep toys, clothes, and books neatly tucked away, ensuring the room remains tidy and clutter-free. John with RAD Children’s Furniture recommends implementing a toy rotation system to keep their room organized and uncluttered. “Display a few toys at a time and store the rest out of sight. Regularly rotate the toys available to the child. This not only keeps the environment tidy but also renews interest and engagement with their toys. A minimalistic approach reduces overwhelm and helps children focus better.”
Under-bed storage: Utilize the space under the bed with drawers or bins for toys, clothes, and out-of-season items. This is a great way to keep the floor clear and make use of every inch of the room.
Height-appropriate, kid-friendly shelves: Use vertical space for storage by installing shelves for books, toys, and decorative items. Wall-mounted shelves keep items off the floor and within reach, creating a clean and organized look.Choosing shelving that matches your child’s height, such as our infant and 3-tier shelves is another great option, John with RAD Children’s Furniture also recommends. “This design allows children to easily access their belongings, fostering independence and encouraging self-directed play. It also enhances safety, reducing the need for children to climb or reach for items.”
Toy chests: Classic and functional, toy chests can double as benches. Opt for designs with soft-close lids to prevent pinched fingers and add cushions on top to provide extra seating.
6. Personal touches
Adding personal touches makes the room feel special and uniquely suited to your child’s personality. These elements can reflect their interests, hobbies, and achievements, making the space truly their own.
Customized art: Frame your child’s drawings and paintings to create a gallery wall. This not only showcases their creativity but also boosts their confidence and sense of pride in their accomplishments.
Name decals: Wall decals or wooden letters spelling out your child’s name add a personal touch. Choose designs that match the room’s theme and color scheme for a cohesive look.
Photo displays: String lights with clips can hold photos, drawings, and mementos, creating a dynamic and ever-changing display. This adds a warm, personal element to the room and allows for easy updates as new memories are made.
7. Interactive play areas
Incorporating areas dedicated to play within the room encourages imagination and activity. These spaces can be both fun and functional, providing a dedicated area for various activities.
Reading nooks: Create a cozy corner with bean bags, soft cushions, and shelves of books. A small canopy or tent can make the nook even more inviting, offering a quiet retreat for reading and relaxation.
Art stations: Set up a small table with art supplies for drawing, painting, and crafting. Ensure the area is well-lit and equipped with storage for supplies to keep the space organized and ready for creativity.
8. Lighting
Proper lighting can make a big difference in a child’s room, affecting both functionality and mood. Layered lighting ensures the room is versatile for various activities.
Layered lighting: Combine ceiling lights for general illumination, wall sconces for ambient lighting, and table lamps for task lighting. This approach provides flexibility and ensures that the room is well-lit for different activities.
Night lights: “Using nightlights is also essential to help with any potential nightmares or night terrors that may be happening,” Unnati Patel, certified pediatric sleep consultant and owner of Nested to Rested Sleep Consulting notes. “It also helps provide a clear path at night to the restroom in case they need to use the potty.”
9. Safety protocols
Safety is paramount in any child’s room. Ensuring the room is secure and hazard-free allows for peace of mind and a safe environment for your child to play and sleep.
Furniture anchors: Secure heavy furniture like dressers and bookshelves to the wall to prevent tipping. This is especially important as children may climb or pull on furniture.
Allergy considerations: Something you may not have thought of when planning your child’s perfect bedroom space is how to provide a healthy space with regard to allergies, asthma, sensitivities, and general health. from The Allergy Mom, Melissa Scheichl recommends paying extra attention to materials that attract dust mites.
“Dust mites affect quality of sleep, breathing, and general health and well-being and are attracted to carpeting, upholstery, drapery, stuffed animals, bedding, and mattresses. The dust mite feces can wreak havoc for allergies, asthma, skin sensitivities, etc,” Scheichl warns. “To reduce the effect of dust mites, consider protective mattress and pillow covers that advertise dust-mite protection (they need to be of a particular quality and fabrication to be effective – not just any mattress cover will do – and they need to completely encase the mattress.”Scheichl also recommends purchasing a portable HEPA filter or other indoor air purifier to remove particulate matter from the air in the bedroom.
Soft flooring: Use rugs or padded mats to cushion falls and provide a soft surface for play. Choose non-slip options to prevent tripping and sliding.
10. Don’t discount teenage years
As children grow into teenagers, their room becomes a vital personal space that reflects their evolving identity and provides a sanctuary for study, relaxation, and socializing. It’s important not to discount the teenage years when designing a child’s room, as their needs and tastes will change significantly during this period. Creating a flexible and adaptable space ensures that the room can evolve with them, accommodating their growth and changing interests.
Reduce clutter: “Your teen has a lot going on in their mind so try to keep things less noisy (in the visual sense),” shares Leyla Preston, founder and editor of Motherhood Diaries. “Studies show that maintaining a serene bedroom environment by minimizing clutter can enhance sleep quality. Make sure the room is free from excessive stimuli beyond schoolwork, including electronic devices that emit blue light to help maintain a conducive sleep setting. Blue light exposure from screens is known to disrupt the circadian rhythm, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Tech integration: On the other hand, modern teenagers rely heavily on technology for both schoolwork and entertainment. Incorporate solutions for managing electronics, such as a charging station for devices, a desk with built-in cable management, and adequate outlets. Ensure the room has reliable Wi-Fi coverage and consider adding a comfortable seating area for reading or using a laptop when necessary.
Designing a place where kids can be kids
Designing a kid’s room is a delightful journey that allows you to blend creativity with practicality. By focusing on themes, multifunctional furniture, creative storage solutions, and personal touches, you can create a space that not only looks fantastic but also supports your child’s growth and development. Remember, the best kids’ rooms are those that reflect the child’s interests and provide a safe, comfortable, and inspiring environment for them to thrive.
Wesley Masters works on Redfin’s stellar Content Marketing team as a content writing specialist. She has been with Rent. since 2023 and her previous experiences include non-profit communications, graphic design, and content creation. Wesley lives in Atlanta, GA, and loves outdoor walks, hanging out with her loved ones, and finding new recipes to try on Pinterest. Her ideal home is a brownstone with contemporary interiors.
Adding the fiscal policy to that, Duncan said there’s more price sensitivity among investors in the U.S. Treasury, which brings the message to “watch for more volatility.”
Duncan expects the Fed to impose two rate cuts this year, in September and December. Mortgage rates are estimated to end 2024 at about 7% and fall to about 6.5% at the end of 2025. But home sales are expected to increase by about 3% this year, reflecting some income recovery.
“Incomes are growing but at a slow pace. House prices are still increasing but at a slower pace. Everyone’s waiting for the Fed to decide what the policy is going to be on rates. And that’s where the ‘higher-for-longer’ discussion comes in. It’s not soon,” Duncan said.
To deal with this landscape, some mortgage companies are “dormant,” Duncan said. Others are investing in products to help deal with affordability issues, such as zero down payment programs, which Fannie Mae is studying.
The government-sponsored enterprise (GSE) also thinks the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) will encourage it to offer single-family, closed-end second mortgages if a Freddie Mac product under analysis is approved.
This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.
Flávia Furlan Nunes:What can we expect from the jobs report on Friday, and what will the consequences be for the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision next week?
Doug Duncan: Our estimate of payroll jobs is about what we saw last month. If it comes out at 170,000 jobs, the market won’t shift much. If it comes out under 150,000, you’ll get a decline in the 10-year [Treasury note yield] as the market, which is trying to coach the Fed to cut rates, will say, ‘There it is. That’s what we need.’ But then when the Fed meets, they’ll say, ‘That’s not enough.’ If there are over 200,000 jobs, then the market will go the other way because it’s going to take longer for the Fed to act.
If you watch over the last couple of weeks, every indicator that comes out, the market judges which way would the Fed move with it. Then, the 10-year response to that is the hazard. That’s the result of what I view as an overcommunication by the Fed. They said, ‘We’re data dependent.’ So, the markets will look at the data and guess what they’re going to do. Different economists will give different points of view on that. But to me, it’s an excess of information.
I don’t expect the Fed to make any move at this meeting. We have in our forecast cutting 25 basis points for each of the September and December meetings. But if they don’t get three strong months trending the major data in the direction they want, we will take the September number out. The risks, right at the moment, are balanced toward less cuts.
Nunes: Is an increase in rates a possibility?
Duncan: No. They will have to message a lot about that. They’ve been pretty clear for a sustained time period that this is enough. The Fed will have to have at least two meetings in which they say in the press conference, ‘We seriously discussed the need to raise rates. We don’t see it now. But we had a serious discussion about it.’
That would put the market on notice that if there is additional information that goes the opposite direction of what the Fed wants, they could, in the following meeting, come up and say, ‘Things are not looking well. We are possibly going to make a move.’ So, they’ll gradually change their language, but it will take some time. Does that mean they would never be willing to shock the market? The probabilities are low. But if things moved fast enough, they would do what they think is necessary.
Nunes:One impact of this overcommunication you mentioned is volatility in the secondary mortgage market, correct?
Duncan: Yes, and I add that the Treasury announcements of their funding expectations are getting about as much attention as the Fed press conferences these days. The size of the debt and the deficit is such that the intersection between monetary policy and the needs of fiscal policy are strongly correlated now. That is a problem for the Fed in the sense that they have to be sensitive to where the Treasury is going to fund and how that will affect the shape of the yield curve.
In addition, I was reading a newsletter, and the analyst was looking at who are the investors in Treasury. Foreign investors were around 30% of Treasury holdings total. Of that, more than half were foreign-sovereign investors who were very price insensitive. But their share has fallen significantly and been replaced by entities that are more price sensitive.
So, if you add to the volatility of the markets from the Fed conversations, and then add some volatility due to increased price sensitivity on the Treasury side, that becomes a tough circumstance. In general, the message is, ‘watch for more volatility,’ but maybe from corners that you hadn’t previously been thinking about.
Nunes: Interest rates are just one tool the Fed has to impact the mortgage market. There’s also the sale of the Fed’s mortgage-backed securities (MBS) portfolio. What do you expect from this and what are the impacts on the secondary market?
Duncan: Because they know there’s already stress in the housing sector, at least in terms of volumes, they have left their MBS portfolio alone. It’s running off and it will continue to run off. It’s probably running off a little faster than they thought, but it’s not to their caps. If you go back to the first time the Fed discussed it, you can see [Chair Jerome] Powell was skeptical about using MBS. They have an explicit position: They want to exit the MBS market. That hasn’t changed at all.
But I would be very surprised if they sold out their portfolio. That would shock the market. No one has indicated that that’s a possibility. They just want to quietly let the MBS portfolio run off.
They’re being cagey exactly where they are because they’re not sure where it should be. If you project the pre-pandemic pace of the growth of the size of their portfolio, and you project a straight-line growth, they’re still well above what you would get to. They genuinely don’t know what the right place to be is. They feel as though they’re getting closer. And so they’ve slowed the pace. But they’re not going to do anything dramatic on the mortgage side.
Nunes:We are talking about monetary and fiscal policy, but there’s a chance of a presidential change next year. How does it add to your forecast?
Duncan: Obviously, we don’t know what will happen. Nothing is known at this time. In our forecasts, we run scenarios outside of our core forecast model, but until something is enacted or an announcement is made of the date of enactment, we don’t put it in our forecast until that occurs.
For example, does the President have the authority to remove the Fed chair? There are mixed opinions on that. I’m not an attorney in that space, so I don’t know. I do know that if that were legally possible, unless Powell were to resign his underlying seat — and there are no other openings — he would have to appoint one of the other governors to that position that’s already there. It’s a complicated question.
The whole discussion of the Fed’s independence — the Fed is never truly independent because there’s, as we were just talking about, the debt. Fiscal policy affects monetary policy. The purity of independence is kind of overstated.
Nunes:We can agree that we are in a ‘higher-for-longer’ scenario, motivated by the Fed’s actions, but you anticipate an increase in home sales. What factors do you believe are contributing to this trend?
Duncan: Yes, a 3% increase [in home sales for 2024]. We have rates at around 7% at the end of this year and closer to 6.5% by the end of next year. During that period, household incomes will be growing.
If the financing component of their housing stays relatively constant because rates stay relatively constant, and house prices are still positive, but they’re slowing, then the question is if income is growing faster than that. Our view is [income] will grow faster than that. Gradually, households will make up the ground from an affordability perspective because of the growth of their incomes. And it will be gradual, which is why you see a slow growth in our sales forecast.
Nunes: And what about the other components of affordability besides income?
Duncan: There are three important variables for affordability: interest rate, household incomes and house prices. There is a very predictable relationship between those variables.
The higher your income, the more expensive a house you’re likely to be able to afford. But that’s moderated by, if you have to borrow money to buy it, the rate of interest. As mortgage rates rise, the price of a house that you can afford to buy falls. What’s going to have to happen is some combination of interest rates falling, incomes rising, and house prices falling or slowing.
Incomes are growing but at a slow pace. House prices are still increasing but at a slower pace. Everyone’s waiting for the Fed to decide what the policy is going to be on rates. And that’s where the ‘higher-for-longer’ discussion comes in. It’s not soon I can’t tell you which of those [variables] will act the fastest.
Nunes: Do you believe there’s a psychological effect of a 7% rate since potential homebuyers are taking a ‘wait-and-see’ approach?
Duncan: It looks to me that that 7% number is a kind of a barrier. We’ve seen rates above 7% for a couple of weeks; we saw purchase applications fall by 5% each of the last two weeks. Just seems like that’s kind of a place where income has not grown enough. At the margin, people are unwilling to stretch to that level.
Nunes: Some good news for lenders in Q1 2024 was that their loss on each loan is narrowing. Are you optimistic this trend will continue?
Duncan: [Losses] are unlikely to end unless businesses take serious action to cut costs. And some are. I had a couple of industry consultants who I think very highly of come in and spend an hour with my research staff a couple of weeks ago. One of the things that they see — and have never seen before — is some of the smaller companies going dormant, furloughing their employees, and just keeping the elements of infrastructure in place to maintain their legal permissions and their business relationships. If the market turns, they can bring the step back from furloughs and grow.
Part of what they’re doing is protecting the wealth that they created from 2020 to 2022 and reserving that as an investment when the market picks back up. Some of them have been very serious about costs. And you know, one of the questions I heard one of these guys answer was, ‘What if it’s your family? He said, ‘If the objective is to maintain the capital value of the firm, then you lay them off.’ It’s a tough time. You are seeing some merger and acquisition activity, but not as much as you would think.
Nunes: Why are some mortgage lenders reluctant to do M&A deals?
Duncan: Some of these firms are consuming wealth by being loyal to their employees, losing money and staying in the business. That can’t go on forever. We’re telling people that this is a new regime; it’s going to be a higher interest rate regime. You shouldn’t expect 3% mortgages again in your lifetime unless there’s some catastrophic economic event.
The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage from World War II, early 1950s, up to 2000, was just under 6%. A 6% mortgage is not unusual, depending on what’s going on with incomes. So, the economy, inflation adjusted, grew about 3% [annually] on average for that entire time period. What about today? The Congressional Budget Office is the official estimate of potential GDP (gross domestic product) growth, and they estimate about 2.1% [growth in 2024].
What would be an analogous mortgage rate? The debt that we have to refinance is going to put pressure on the Treasury curve, and the underlying Treasury rates will be higher as a result of the need to fund all of this debt that we’re in. That said, over the housing cycle, mortgage rates might run from a low of 4.5% at the weakest point and a high of around 6% at the strongest point, with a median somewhere in the 5.25% to 5.5% range. To me, it would be a norm.
Nunes: I see some initiatives in the market to help borrowers when affordability is constrained, such as Freddie Mac’s single-family, closed-end second mortgage proposal. Is that something Fannie Mae is considering?
Duncan: It’s in the rulemaking process at FHFA. We haven’t said anything about it because we’re waiting to see what FHFA decides. It’s likely that if it’s approved, the FHFA — because they’ve been trying to balance the market — would encourage us to be in that space too. That would be a Fannie Mae decision.
There are all kinds of views on either the issue of whether we should be in the [closed-end second mortgage] market, or the health of households who are extracting equity from their home. At different points in time, it has different impacts. So, when FHFA makes a decision, then you’ll hear from us.
Nunes: As an economist, how do you evaluate the economic impacts of a product like this?
Duncan: People have used the equity in their homes for many things for a long time. This is not new. A lot of it depends on the motive behind the extraction of equity. And there’s a huge list of things. Some of them are purely consumption. You may ask the question: Is that a good idea?
Well, for some households, it’s probably not a problem. For other households, it might be problematic. Some people have used the equity in their home as capital to found a small business. If that small business succeeds, you never hear about it. If it fails, it puts risk on the mortgage, and then you might hear about it. So, in any individual case, it’s very difficult to say whether it’s a good thing or a bad thing.
Nunes:Zero-down payment programs are also making a comeback. How do you see this trend and its risks?
Duncan: It all depends on how it is underwritten. And some things are out of your control. You may underwrite it very well, but maybe there are some weather issues that emerge, such as hurricanes or wildfires. We do have some research that’s going to come out — I’m not sure of the exact timing — where we’ve looked at the response of housing in a serious weather-related event, in this case, Hurricane Harvey in Houston.
We have a lot of data in that space. We’re trying to understand the households’ responses based on the level of the loss, the coverage of insurance, all those things, to be able to know how to underwrite those risks, and that would be something that we certainly would apply to a zero-down loan.
Looking good comes with a cost. Ask cosmetologists. The average price of beauty school is $15,000 to $20,000 a year.
A career in cosmetology can be rewarding. You get a creative outlet and a chance to help others look their best. It also offers flexibility for a good work-life balance. But the licensing process can add up.
Cosmetology and esthetics programs are offered through community, technical, and vocational colleges — accredited institutions that qualify for financial aid. Accreditation broadens the range of financial aid options. Prospective students can consider interest-free payment plans, financial aid from schools, scholarships, grants, and loans from the government or private entities. Read on for more detailed information on the types of financial aid that pay for cosmetology school, and what options don’t.
Esthetician vs Cosmetology School
Esthetician (or aesthetician) licenses specialize in skincare treatment, recommendations, and analysis. Treatments include facials, massages, and waxing. With this license, you can work at spas, salons, or doctor’s offices, such as plastic surgeons or dermatologists.
Cosmetology covers the creative styling of hair, skin, and nails — but also provides basic training in treatments. Students can get an esthetician license through a cosmetology program. A career in cosmetology can lead to work as a makeup artist, hair stylist, or manicurist. License holders typically work in salons, spas, the entertainment industry, and hotels or resorts. The table below outlines some of the differences between an esthetics license and a cosmetology license.
Field
Esthetics License
Cosmetology License
Average School Tuition
$7,433 average of top ten US schools
$16,000
Subjects
Techniques and science behind skin care treatments. Specific subjects include skin anatomy, facial and makeup techniques, hair removal, and medical office esthetics.
Hair, skin, and nail care and styling. Specific subjects include dermatology, makeup, and haircutting.
2024 Median Salary
$40,300/year
$29,201/year
Job Growth 2022-32
9% (Faster than US average)
8% (Faster than US average)
Types of Jobs
Skin care specialist (esthetician), makeup artist
Hair Stylist, nail technician, makeup artist, barber
Be sure that your school is state-approved. You can search for schools through your local government’s licensing process. Also, it’s helpful to know whether your certificate is transferable to other states and which states accept it. This way, your time and resources aren’t lost.
Below are organizations that can help you find accredited and state-approved programs:
• Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
• Accrediting Council for Continued Education & Training (ACCET)
• Council on Occupational Education (COE)
• National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS)
Typical Cost of Beauty Schools
Beauty school programs are generally more affordable than the average four-year program. According to the College Board’s Annual Trends in College Pricing report, during the 2023-2024 school year, the average cost of tuition at a four-year nonprofit institution was $41,540. Cosmetology students, in contrast, can expect to pay around $16,000 to complete a degree in their field. But beauty school students still borrow $7,100 per year on average.
Esthetician School
Requirements for esthetics licenses vary by state. Connecticut is the only state that does not require a license.
Students can expect to complete 300 to 1,500 hours depending on state program requirements. Most states require students to pass a state-issued exam to obtain a license after completion of a program. For example, Washington requires students to complete a program of not less than 750 hours and to fill out a license application.
Students can also specialize in esthetics as part of their overall cosmetology program.
Cosmetology School
Each state requires a cosmetology license in order to practice. While requirements differ, most states require three things: you must be 16 or older, hold a high school diploma, and have completed a state-licensed cosmetology program. Some states also require an exam in order to obtain a license. And some require regular license renewals.
While states can issue a license that covers all cosmetology specialties, some require separate licenses in specializations such as barbering or manicures.
Programs range anywhere from 1,000 to 2,100 hours across states, and usually include retail and business admin training to supplement. Specializing in a field, such as nail care, requires additional hours. Finally, programs are hands-on — meaning students have limited online options.
To find out your state’s requirements, the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology has a registry of state offices.
Possible Funding Source #1: FAFSA®
Does FAFSA pay for cosmetology school? Yes! But, students who apply must be enrolled in an accredited program to be eligible.
The first step to applying for government financial aid is filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. New forms are released each year on October 1st — and the sooner you complete one, the more likely federal grants will be available.
Information provided on the FAFSA helps to determine your eligibility for federal student aid. The government, states, and colleges also use it to determine the amount of financial aid to award you. Schools you list in your form will review your FAFSA and put together an aid offer. If your school’s financial aid does not cover the entire cost of tuition, you can use the FAFSA to apply for federal grants and student loans.
Not familiar with setting up FAFSA? This FAFSA guide provides an overview of the form and the aid options available through the FAFSA. Here’s a brief explainer on some of the aid types that may be available to students.
Pell Grants
The government awards Pell Grants to students from lower-income families and who have not previously earned a degree. Unlike loans, they do not need to be repaid.
The Pell Grant’s 2024-2024 maximum is $7,395 and students may be eligible for up to twelve terms. The amount is determined by the following:
• Expected Family Contribution (EFC), or the amount your family can pay
• Cost of Attendance (COA), finalized in your school offer letter
• Full-time or part-time status as s student
• Length of your school’s academic year
Schools will disburse the federal grant to you directly, apply it to your tuition, or both. In order to receive Pell Grants, students must stay enrolled in their respective program of study and fill out the FAFSA form each year.
Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans
The Department of Education also offers Direct Loans. Cosmetology students may be eligible for either subsidized or unsubsidized loans. The government pays for the interest rate of subsidized loans as long as you’re enrolled in a program, for the first six months after leaving school, and during qualifying deferment periods. Interest rates for unsubsidized loans are not covered. Subsidized loans are awarded based on financial need, while unsubsidized loans are not.
Applying for a federal loan offers these key advantages:
• Low fixed interest rates
• Flexible repayment plans
• Possibility of forgiven loans
• Deferment and forbearance options
Parent PLUS Loans
PLUS loans are available to parents of undergraduate students or graduate or professional students. They offer some of the advantages of federal Direct Loans, but offer higher borrowing limits.
Parents can apply for Parent PLUS Loans on behalf of their children, as well. Unlike other federal student loans, these types require a credit check and are not based on financial need.
Possible Funding Source #2: Scholarships
A good place to start your scholarship search is with your school. Their aid letter will outline scholarships awarded from its program. You can contact them to see if there are additional scholarships you can apply for at the school.
Professional associations also offer scholarships based on need or merit. The below beauty industry associations have lists of scholarships.
• Professional Beauty Association
• National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology
• American Association of Cosmetology Schools
The U.S. Department of Labor also offers a free scholarship finder .
Finally, ethnicity-based groups, employers, or your parent’s employers may also offer tuition assistance and scholarships.
Possible Funding Source #3: Working Part Time
Since cosmetology programs are shorter in duration, working part-time to help pay for college is feasible. Try getting work in your field as an assistant or admin at an office. That way, you can learn while getting paid — and even get a foot in the door.
Studying and working is a fine balance. It depends on how much time you can commit. If studying fills up most of your week, you may not be able to focus on studying for the career you hope to work in and may also hurt your score needed to pass exams needed to work in the industry.
You can even find working cosmetologists to get advice on how to do both.
Possible Funding Source #4: Private Student Loans
After exhausting all other avenues of aid, private student loans can help cover the difference. A private undergraduate student loan can be offered through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. They can be applied to a range of programs, even applied towards paying for CDL school.
Lenders will perform a credit check to determine your interest rate and how much you are eligible for. Students who don’t have credit scores will need a cosigner, usually a parent.
Possible Funding Source #5: School-Specific Financial Aid
Financial aid availability depends on your school.
Aveda Institute Maryland, for example, offers financial assistance for current and former military servicemen. Paul Mitchell Schools also offer three forms of military financial aid. One includes a My Career Advancement Account Scholarship Program for military spouses.
Delgado Community College in New Orleans provides financial assistance on a first-come, first-serve basis. Students must complete a FAFSA, online scholarship form, and accept or decline their aid offer letter.
Possible Funding Source #6: School-Specific Payment Plans
College tuition payment plans are an option. Instead of paying tuition upfront at the beginning of the year, students pay tuition in installments.
Payment plans are an excellent alternative to taking out loans since plans are generally interest-free. Check with your school for eligibility requirements and deadlines for enrollment periods.
The Board of Cooperative Educational Services in Western Suffolk, Long Island, and Alexander Paul Institute of Hair Design offer no-interest payment plans.
Explore Private Student Loans With SoFi
Cosmetology and esthetician careers require state-approved schooling and licenses. These accredited programs are covered by federal financial aid, and some schools offer financial aid. Zero-interest payment plans can also be a huge help to pay for a program.
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.
FAQ
Can FAFSA be used for beauty school?
Yes. States require students to participate in state-approved accredited beauty schools to obtain a license. Students enrolled in post-secondary programs at accredited institutions qualify for financial aid.
Do you work and earn money while in cosmetology school?
Students typically cannot work in their field without a license, unless it’s an unrelated job in the industry. Find out if your school participates in the Federal Work-Study Program. These programs are available to part-time or full-time students with financial needs. Students will usually find jobs at their school or private for-profit employers that have agreements with your school. The jobs are typically relevant to your field of study.
Are beauty schools accredited? How do you select a good program?
Yes, beauty schools can be accredited for post-secondary education. Always check to make sure your program is accredited to avoid predatory schools with poor programming. Consider starting your search with state license departments. The National-Interstate Council Of State Boards Of Cosmetology has a directory of all 50 states’ centers.
Photo credit: iStock/petrovv
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You are struggling to make money.
And right now, you need to figure out how to turn 100 into 1000.
Plus you want to do this preferably fast!
We will share a few of the most important ideas that you can take to turn 100 dollars into 1000 in a day. These are simple and easy-to-follow strategies that anyone can follow without any prior experience or skill set; just some determination.
If you do not want to earn $1,000 in just one day, then this article is not for you.
However, if your goal is to turn 100 into 1K over time and build multiple streams of income that last forever–this post will provide some insight on how it can be done.
At the end of this guide, I’ll leave you with 10 key points about how to get started on your path towards turning 100 dollars into 1000.
Make the most of your time, because you’re running out of it!
How to Turn 100 into 1000
To turn 100 into 1000, you want to multiply your initial investment 10x.
That is a big promise!
The great news is this is something that can be easily achieved. Actually, way easier than you could possibly imagine.
Your goal is to learn how to turn 100 into 1000.
For some of you, you may want to learn how to turn $100 dollars into $1000 in a day.
Regardless of if you want to know how to turn $100 into $1000 in 30 days or a week, you will learn strategies to help you create more income streams. And that my friend is a win that will put you on a trajectory towards financial stability!
This is how can I flip my money…
Step One: Set Your Goals
When trying to reach a goal, you should be able to work on it on the same day. In order for this process, one must know what obstacles they might face and how they can overcome them with simple tactics.
It is important to set goals when trying anything new because they help keep the process moving forward.
In addition, when working towards a goal one needs to have an “end game” or at least something that will satisfy their objectives after achieving success. This is important because if someone sets out with no end-game (or doesn’t even think about it) then there is no sense of motivation or purpose.
Finally, it’s important to have a strategy for attaining your goal that is not too difficult and also ensures the best possible results are attained in the quickest amount of time.
Step Two: Create A Plan
The biggest obstacle with almost any make money idea is how people perceive them before they’ve had time to prove themselves.
You jump right in without taking the time to learn the new skill. Thus, you end up losing money quickly, which is exactly the opposite of what you wanted to do.
While you can know how to turn $1000 into $1000 in a day, you need a plan to make sure that happens on a consistent basis.
The most important step in the process of turning $100 into $1000 is to create an action plan.
A written document of what you plan to do. Include some of these items:
Write down your Make Money Idea
Skill sets you must learn
What steps do you need to take to reach your goal
Mind map out all of the possibilities as well as obstacles
How to market yourself or your business
Timeline to achieve your end goal
Steps to reach your goal.
More than likely, making over $1000 is not something you want to do once and be done. It will be something you want to rinse and repeat.
Put in the proper work, so you can see successful results.
Step Three: Take Action
The third step is to take action. You can’t just sit around and wait for success to come knocking on your door; you have to do something about it!
While it is great to plan what you want to do, you need to take action.
If not, you will never see results.
Also, it is important to set milestones in order to track your progress.
Ways to Turn $100 into $1,000
The average person spends $100 a month on their phone, cable, and coffee. If you want to make sure that your money is going towards the things that will help increase your wealth, then you need to learn ways to turn $100 into $1000.
Here are 12 simple ways that can be taken to turn $100 into $1,000.
Each idea will help you accomplish the goal of turning 100 dollars into 1,000 dollars in a short amount of time.
You just have to put in the work and dedication.
#1 – Start a Blog
Starting a blog is not an easy task and takes hard work.
A blog can be a lucrative career for those who are passionate about writing and sharing their expertise. Blogs make money through ad revenue, affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and selling digital products.
The process of starting your own blog starts when you decide on the topic that interests you, create a website for it, design the layout, write posts about what’s happening in your life or what has happened in yours recently (almost every day), post pictures to show how much progress has been made with building content for your site and then finally sharing it online!
Starting a blog can be relatively inexpensive, but the income potential is high.
Check out the course roadmap and find out where to start first!
#2 – Open an Etsy shop or Shopify store
Etsy is a marketplace for handcrafted items that provides free tools to help you start an online shop. Use the site’s search engine, browse its features, and find products that will be popular with your target audience.
An Etsy shop is a great way to create a business and make money. It can allow you to sell whatever you want, with the potential for making more than $1,000.
The same is true for a Shopify store.
# 3- Invest in Stocks
This is my personal favorite way to turn 100 into 1000. Yes, that is true! While a blog is great, this allows more time freedom in my life with true passive income.
Investing can be a powerful way to turn $100 into $1,000 (over and over again). There are many ways to do this, but one thing is certain: investing has a foundational role in becoming independently wealthy.
Here is the BIGGEST CAVEAT to investing in stocks: you must learn how to trade and be successful.
Don’t just assume you can jump in and start to make $1000 in a day or follow some guru.
You must take this investing course.
If you don’t come back once you lost more money and invest in a proper stock market investing course.
You can start investing for as little as $100.
One former assistant principal, Teri Ijeoma, changed her life when she left her job as an educator and become an active trader.
Oh, and please stay away from Robinhood as a brokerage firm. Also, don’t jump into forex until you have some serious knowledge under your belt.
#4 – Invest in Real Estate
Investing in real estate is an excellent way to diversify your portfolio and it’s also a great way to make money.
Real estate is one of the most secure investments with low risk, but it also has the potential to provide stable returns. It’s important to choose a real estate investment strategy that is suited to your risk tolerance and any capital constraints you may have.
You can invest in real estate by purchasing a single property, multiple properties, or buying fractional shares. There are many different portfolio types that meet your needs and risk tolerance.
Real estate investment is a smart way to get passive income.
#5 – Get into Freelancing
As a freelancer, you have the opportunity to work with different companies and organizations. You decide where your next job is based on what you like best about each company or organization.
Freelancing is a unique way to work and offers the opportunity to do something you love without having to worry about someone else.
You don’t need to have a lot of money to start freelancing.
The internet has made it easy for people with skills and expertise in many fields to make money, even if you do not have any experience or credentials.
Freelancing is a way for people to earn money without having an employer. It might be intimidating, but it’s worth the effort and investment of time. You can start by building your portfolio website that will help you convince clients in order to get your foot in the door with freelancing opportunities.
Freelancing is a great way to earn income while still having time for personal life.
Get started with Fiverr!
#6 -Flip Digital Assets
A flip digital asset is a physical object that can be used to collect data from a device, such as a computer or mobile phone. This allows for the collection of information without having to install additional software.
These are the three types of digital assets that are currently available for purchase: cryptocurrencies, utility tokens, and collectibles. It is important to note that these currencies can be bought or sold at any time with no transaction fees.
However, it may take some time before you see your initial investment grow significantly due to large volatility in cryptocurrency prices or NFTs.
#7 – Start Service Businesses
Start businesses that provide services, such as childcare, lawn care, or housecleaning. The rules of business are always changing and it’s important to be able to adapt your business plan accordingly.
When starting a service business, the most important step is to have an idea for your service.
You can start by thinking about what you enjoy doing and then finding a way to monetize it. For example, if you are good at social media marketing, you could create an Instagram account with different types of content that would attract people who are looking for services similar to yours.
If you like dogs, start a business by dog walking or pet sitting. You can take it one step further and provide products your clients need like leashes, treats, and poop bags. This is great if you have a passion for animals.
Service businesses such as cleaning and lawn care can be started for a few hundred dollars or less.
You are trading your time for money.
#8 – Learn a New Skill
Learning a new skill is not an easy task.
It takes time, energy, and patience to master something that you have never done before.
However, it can be worth the investment in your future if you are able to use the skills learned for work or different hobbies later on down the line.
Plus many new skills can be used to help you make more money fast.
This is also one of the best ways to create your own financial future if you want it, which will make your life significantly better and happier.
Find a job that pays a lot of money
Increase your skills and qualifications to find a better-paying job.
Start studying for an exam or qualification people will be willing to pay more for, such as a degree or certification.
Network to find out more information about how much money you could be making if you were in the job of your dreams and what qualifications may be required for it.
Learn everything you can to be successful with your new side hustle.
In order to learn a new skill, you’ll need to set some time aside. You can decide on how much time you want to spend learning a new skill by deciding the frequency of practice.
Think about how many hours per day you want to spend practicing the skill. For example, if you want to learn a new juggling skill, you could decide that every day for 15 minutes will be dedicated to practice. If you want to learn a new skill every day, it will take about 30 minutes per day.
#9 – Couponing
Couponing is a very popular way to save money on grocery items.
Couponing involves finding coupons for specific items and looking to see if the coupon has been used before. In order to save money on groceries, it is important to check the expiration date of any coupons and to remember to use them before they expire.
This is a backward way of stretching spending $100 to get $1000 worth of product.
Couponers may be extreme couponers who stack coupons, compete with other stores, and use rebates to get items for 95% off or more.
# 10 – Loan your $100
A loan is a sum of money that somebody borrows from somebody else, who agrees to give it back with interest. The lender may be a bank or other financial institution, while the borrower must be a person, a company, or a government. The money is lent for a specific purpose, such as buying property or starting a business.
This is the riskiest idea and not my first pick, but it’s another passive income idea to test out.
This is an opportunity for people who want to take their $100 and turn it into $1,000 by loaning them back the money that they’ve given you.
#11 – Day Trading
Day trading is an investing strategy that entails buying and selling securities during the same trading day.
You are looking to profit by trading in the short term. The same is true with swing trading while holding investments from two days up to a month.
Only invest what you’re able to lose!
If you are serious about day trading, you can make good money with proper risk management. But, you must invest in this investing course.
#12 – Invest in Crypto
Investing in cryptocurrency is a risky investment, but it can pay off if you’re careful.
It’s important to keep your personal information secure when investing in cryptocurrencies, and never access an exchange account with the same password you use for your bank account.
Today, there are many different cryptocurrencies that you can invest in. Cryptocurrencies are becoming more and more popular with every day passing by. Cryptos are very volatile, so it’s important to invest in them with caution.
How to Be Successful when turning 100 into 1000
The concept of success can be difficult to define.
Success is something that is elusive, elusive in nature. Most people quickly dismiss the thought of achieving anything with this elusive ability.
The goal of attracting more money is to inspire you to make more out of what you have.
A little goes a long way to help everyone achieve their goals.
Here are a few things you need to focus on for long term success:
Be disciplined. This is the key to getting results in any area of your life.
Practice. Practice, practice and more practice.
Work Hard. One of the most important steps is to work hard on your craft. This will lead to natural success in your field or area of expertise.
Find Mentors. Another important step in getting results is to find mentors who are already successful and take time to learn from them what they did, how they did it, and when. This will help you avoid the mistakes they made.
Spend Money to Make Money. Don’t be afraid to spend money on what will bring about success for you and your company. Spending time making sure that people know who you are and what you do is a great investment!
Time Block. Another key component to successful results is being disciplined with your time. Make sure that every hour of the day has been dedicated to a project that is going to bring you closer to your goal.
Start Now. The final step I have for you in this journey of success is the most important one, which is to do it now. Don’t put off what you know will make your business grow.
The most important thing is to do it now!
This post will help you double it and make 2000 fast!
Try these 10 simple steps to attract massive results
For many people, the thought of turning 100 into 1000 dollars is difficult to achieve.
They just see how quickly money dwindles away and they are stuck in the scarcity mindset.
Turning 100 into 1000 is not as easy as it seems. But, if you can get over that mental roadblock with these 10 simple steps, you are on the right path.
1) Set an income goal- you’re worth it! What do you want your net profit per year to be? Write it down. Whatever your number is, you need to double it as an income goal for now.
2) Maintain a positive attitude- be grateful and enjoy life! You deserve this!
3) Believe that you can do it- your future is bright!
4) Don’t give up hope on the things you want.
5) Give generously to others, but also hug yourself.
6) Write your goals down and post them for everyone to see, then read them aloud every night before bed!
7) Visualize the life you want- it’s time to create a life of abundance!
8) Take care of your body by eating right, exercising, and getting enough sleep.
9) Stay calm in the face of adversity- you’re an unstoppable force!
10) Believe in yourself and what you’re capable of- anything is possible!
Ready to turn $100 into $1000
What if you could make more money and live a better life?
How would that change your world?
This is why I gave you the simple steps to make 100 into 1000.
This is how can I turn $100 into $200? Then $100 into $1000.
If you want to make more money, this is one of the best ways to do it.
This is your first step on how to become financially independent.
You can be in business for yourself or create a company that will generate a lot of money. You can do this from home or anywhere that’s a good location for you.
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Trust me, any of these 100 into 1000 ideas is going to blow your mind.
Don’t keep reading; jump in and start doing it!
More Make Money Resources:
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After taking a second job as a driver for Amazon to make ends meet, this former teacher pivoted to be a successful stock trader.
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Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
Applying for a credit card as an international student in the United States can be challenging — but it’s not impossible. And if you plan to stay in the U.S. after you graduate, having an established credit history through an international student credit card can be instrumental as you start the next phase of your life, from getting a job to buying a car or a house.
Wondering how to get a credit card as an international student? Our guide will walk you through the typical requirements, and the steps for an international student to apply for a credit card.
Recommended: What is a Charge Card
Benefits of Having a Credit Card as an International Student
Getting a credit card as an international student can have a number of benefits:
• Spending with ease: When you’re attending college in the U.S., you’ll have to pay more than tuition. Having a U.S. credit card can make it easier to pay for monthly expenses like groceries and entertainment. Even if you have a credit card issued in your home country, getting a card from a U.S.-based credit card issuer can be a good idea; cards from other countries might charge foreign transaction fees here in the States.
• Establishing credit in the U.S.: International students in the United States likely do not yet have a U.S. credit score. Having a credit history is important for things like applying for a job, getting approved to rent a home, and buying a car. If you plan to remain in the United States after graduation, establishing credit history as a student with a credit card can be a good idea.
• Learning how to manage credit: Whether you plan to remain in the United States after graduation or return home, learning how to use a credit card responsibly can be an important lesson. As a student with fewer bills, now might be a good time to learn how credit cards work and get used to the monthly payments and interest rates.
Recommended: Can International Students Get Student Loans in the U.S.?
Disadvantages of Having a Credit Card as an International Student
Applying for an international student credit card can also have its drawbacks:
• Difficult requirements: Getting a credit card as an international student is usually more challenging than it is for U.S. citizens. Students who are already overwhelmed by a new place with a new culture — plus their challenging curriculum — may not have the time or energy to apply for a credit card.
• No effect on credit score back home: Getting a credit card from a U.S. credit card issuer is a good step toward establishing a credit history in the United States. Students who plan to return to their home countries after college, however, will not see a benefit to their credit scores back home by using a U.S.-issued card.
Typical Credit Card Requirements for International Students
So can an international student get a credit card? Yes — but they may have a harder time than the average U.S. student.
Typically, you will need a Social Security number (SSN) to apply for a credit card. Some issuers may accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification number (ITIN), which can be easier for international students to obtain. While most credit cards will require a SSN or ITIN, you might be able to find a credit card issuer that only requires a passport.
Applying for a Social Security Number
Even if you are not a U.S. citizen, you may be able to apply for a Social Security number. For example, if you have an F-1 student visa (or another type of student visa), you might be eligible to apply, though you may need to have a part-time job and receive the proper authorization first.
Review the Social Security Administration’s guidelines , and don’t be afraid to ask a member of your school’s international student office for assistance. The advisors there are likely well-versed in common international student challenges, including applying for a Social Security number.
If you are having trouble getting a Social Security number, try instead to get an ITIN through the IRS. The IRS offers guidelines for obtaining an ITIN as a foreign student, but again, your international student office can likely walk through the process with you.
Applying for Credit Cards
Once you’ve gotten a Social Security number (or an ITIN), you may be wondering, how can an international student get a credit card? Start by looking for relevant credit card offers. Many credit card issuers offer cards specifically targeted at students.
Note that you will need to provide a permanent address for your application. You can use your U.S.-based school address for this field.
Recommended: Does Applying For a Credit Card Hurt Your Credit Score
Tips for Avoiding Credit Card Rejections as an International Student
Because nobody likes rejection — and because multiple hard inquiries for credit card applications might eventually take a toll on your credit score — it’s important to avoid credit card rejections. Here are some tips for improving your chances of approval:
• Open a bank account. Having a checking or savings account can improve your success rate. It also simplifies money management while you’re here in the States.
• Get a part-time job. Having a job might be a requirement to get your Social Security number. Having a steady income is a sign to creditors that you are reliable enough to lend money to. Just check with your advisor to ensure you are allowed to seek employment as an international student.
• Consider a secured credit card. Secured credit cards require a security deposit, often equal to the credit limit for the card in question. Because these cards are backed by collateral, they pose less risk to the credit card issuer and thus make it easier for those with bad or no credit to get approved. After you use your secured credit card responsibly for several months, you might have a strong enough credit score to apply for an unsecured card. Just make sure the card issuer reports usage of the secured card to the credit bureaus to ensure an impact to your score.
Recommended: When Are Credit Card Payments Due
Using a Credit Card Responsibly
Responsible credit card usage is a good way to improve your credit score. When you get your international student credit card, be sure to follow our general credit card rules to improve your chances of raising your credit score.
In general, responsible credit card usage entails:
• Avoiding impulse purchases.
• Signing up for automatic payments.
• Regularly checking your statements.
Paying your card off in full each month and maintaining a low credit utilization — meaning the amount of credit you’re currently using compared to the total credit you have available — are good ways to build a solid credit history. Following these guidelines can also help you to avoid some of the costs of credit cards, such as late payment fees and interest charges.
Recommended: Tips for Using a Credit Card Responsibly
The Takeaway
International students can apply for a credit card while studying here in the United States. Doing so can allow you to establish a credit history in the U.S. and spend money more easily during your time here. Applying for an international student credit card is more complicated, however, and typically requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification number.
Are you looking for the right credit card during your time in the U.S.? You might consider getting a credit card through SoFi.
The SoFi Credit Card offers unlimited 2% cash back on all eligible purchases. There are no spending categories or reward caps to worry about.1
Take advantage of this offer by applying for a SoFi credit card today.
FAQ
What is a good credit card interest rate for international students?
Interest rates will vary by credit card, but some of the best international student credit cards offer APRs between 13% and 29%.
Do I need a Social Security number to open a credit card?
Having a Social Security number is a common requirement for opening a credit card, but many issuers will accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification number instead. Some credit card issuers may even accept only a passport for the credit card application.
Do international students have to use a secured credit card?
International students may have an easier time getting approved for a secured credit card, but it is not the only option. If a student has an established credit history in the United States, they might be able to get approved for a specific unsecured credit card designed for students. Some cards might even offer basic rewards.
1See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards.
External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.
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.
The SoFi Credit Card is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A. pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
1Members earn 2 rewards points for every dollar spent on purchases. No rewards points will be earned with respect to reversed transactions, returned purchases, or other similar transactions. When you elect to redeem rewards points into your SoFi Checking or Savings account, SoFi Money® account, SoFi Active Invest account, SoFi Credit Card account, or SoFi Personal, Private Student, or Student Loan Refinance, your rewards points will redeem at a rate of 1 cent per every point. For more details please visit the Rewards page. Brokerage and Active investing products offered through SoFi Securities LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. SoFi Securities LLC is an affiliate of SoFi Bank, N.A.
Are you curious about the real estate deal strategies I use to keep getting great deals in today’s market? Whether you’re an investor eyeing your next property flip or an eager homeowner searching for a bargain, the hunt for great deals is critical. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll cover the 6 strategies I use to get great deals and I’ll show you some recent examples.
Table of Contents
Video: Finding Real Estate Deals Strategies
[embedded content][embedded content]
Real Estate Deals Strategies Video
6 Strategies for Finding Deals
The MLS
Many believe that the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is exclusively for seasoned investors. However, it’s a misconception. We’ve acquired numerous properties through the MLS, including one notable deal featuring a basement skatepark. Owner-occupants can leverage the MLS to their advantage, especially during exclusive bid periods like those for HUD homes.
The MLS is for real estate agents, but don’t let that stop you. You can either:
Work with an agent to help you find deals.
Use the consumer version of your local MLS. Most MLS systems have a consumer-facing version. For example, my local MLS is IRES, but they have a non-agent-facing version at coloproperty.com.
Wholesale Deals
Wholesalers offer a treasure trove of off-market properties ripe for investment. While these deals lack the scrutiny of inspections and appraisals, they demand quick action and thorough due diligence. Learn how to discern between lucrative opportunities and potential pitfalls when engaging with wholesalers.
For more, read my wholesaling article.
Networking
Networking isn’t just for job seekers; it’s a potent tool for real estate enthusiasts. By fostering relationships with industry professionals, from lenders to fellow investors, you can be made aware of deals. This one may be as simple as telling everyone you know that you’re in the market to buy real estate.
Our recent townhouse flip stemmed from a banking connection, underscoring the value of a solid network.
For more, check out my post about real estate investor associations and clubs.
Direct Marketing
Direct marketing entails proactive outreach to homeowners considering selling their properties. Postcards, bandit signs, and digital ads are just a few avenues for connecting with motivated sellers. While it requires persistence and patience, this approach can yield remarkable results, as evidenced by our success stories.
Read my article on direct marketing.
Auctions
Auction houses present a unique avenue for acquiring distressed properties at competitive prices. However, they come with inherent risks, such as limited visibility and stringent bidding conditions. Discover how we’ve navigated the complexities of auction purchases and capitalized on favorable market conditions.
Read my post about foreclosures and auctions.
Education and Resources
Above all, education is the most important. If you’re not actively studying, you may be throwing away lots of time and money.
Investing in comprehensive courses, like those offered on our platform, equips you with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the real estate arena. From deal-finding strategies to financing insights, these resources empower you to make informed decisions and navigate challenges effectively.
My Master the Deal course walks you through everything you need to know to start finding great real estate investment deals.
Special note: Master the Deal is on sale now! Use this link to get it for just $199 $29! https://learn.investfourmore.com/purchase?product_id=5460501&coupon_code=HP84987
Final Thoughts
There are countless opportunities abound for both investors and owner-occupants alike. By embracing a multifaceted approach to deal sourcing and leveraging available resources, you can open yourself to many more deals. Whether you’re scouring the MLS, cultivating relationships, or exploring alternative channels, persistence and diligence are key to achieving your real estate goals.
Remember, the next great deal could be just around the corner. Happy hunting!
Discover methods to achieve financial harmony in relationships and why fiduciary advisors are often considered trustworthy.
Sara’s Corner: How can couples equitably share the mental load of managing finances? Can you trust fiduciary financial advisors? Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner begin with a discussion about the division of financial responsibilities among couples to help you understand how to create financial harmony in your relationship.
Today’s Money Question: Elizabeth Ayoola joins Sean to explain how you can choose a financial professional to work with, starting with an in-depth look at different types of fiduciaries including Certified Financial Planners (CFPs), financial coaches, and financial therapists. They discuss the nuances of fiduciary compensation structures and explain how you can advocate for yourself when selecting a financial advisor to work with.
Check out this episode on your favorite podcast platform, including:
NerdWallet stories related to this episode:
Episode transcript
This transcript was generated from podcast audio by an AI tool.
Sean Pyles:
Do you know which financial advisors you can trust and which might just be looking to make a buck? Well, this episode will help you sort the good from the sketchy in the world of financial advice.
Sara Rathner:
Welcome to NerdWallet’s Smart Money Podcast, where we help you make smarter financial decisions one money question at a time. I’m Sara Rathner.
Sean Pyles:
And I’m Sean Pyles. This episode, we’re joined by our co-host Elizabeth Ayoola to answer a listener’s question about fiduciary financial advisors. Are they all they’re hyped up to be and how do they compare to other folks looking to make money from giving advice?
Sara Rathner:
I would say the answer to those questions are usually, and they’re better, but I don’t want to steal your and Elizabeth’s thunder.
Sean Pyles:
I appreciate the restraint, Sara, even though you did just say those things.
But anyway, before we get into that, we’re going to hang out for a bit in Sara’s Corner. This is a thing I just made up where we hear from Sara about something that she recently wrote. Sara’s Corner, it’s cozy here.
Sara Rathner:
I mean, I do keep a blanket on the back of my desk chair, so it is cozy here.
Sean Pyles:
Sounds nice.
Sara Rathner:
Yeah. My corner is cozy and also may be full of emotionally fraught conversations because I do really like to write about couples and money, so let’s bring on the fighting.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah, that’s a good combination, I’d say.
So Sara, you recently wrote an article about how couples can share the mental load of money management. So to start, what inspired you to write this article? Are you giving us a peek into the Rathner household?
Sara Rathner:
Maybe a little deep down, but honestly, it’s really about what my social media algorithms are serving up lately, besides baby sleep experts and a little bit of Zillow Gone Wild, which is an account I highly recommend. So fun. You never know when an indoor pool’s going to pop up.
There are quite a few people who are influencer-type personalities who discuss topics like the mental load and emotional labor within families and within households, and it got me thinking about something that causes a lot of fights about who’s handling what task, and that is, as always, money.
Sean Pyles:
So in your article, you write that “Couples can fall into unproductive patterns that can lead to conflict, resentment, and even willful ignorance.” And this goes beyond money in a lot of relationships, and I do feel like this is something that anyone who’s been in a long-term relationship can relate to. So can you give us an example of one of these unproductive patterns and how can they be damaging to a relationship?
Sara Rathner:
One source I interviewed talked about what they called a manager-follower dynamic where one person in the couple is in charge and they delegate tasks to their significant other, and that’s fine at work. At home, it could also be fine depending on the task, but sometimes it could get a little icky, and even if one person is handling 100% of a task, you are both benefiting equally from that labor.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. That reminds me of friends I’ve talked with who have found themselves in relationships with partners who really want a parent more than an actual partner, and that can be exhausting to deal with.
Sara Rathner:
Yeah, it’s totally fine to divvy up a task and have one person kind of be like, “I’m the point person for this, so if you have any questions about it, come and ask me,” but you’re agreeing to that together. It’s not this automatic, “Well, I’m the more adulty adult here and you act like a child, so I’m going to be your parent.” That’s a really gross dynamic to have in any romantic relationship. If you are in that right now, I don’t know, reconsider.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah, it can really strip away the romance from that relationship.
Sara Rathner:
Yeah, there’s nothing romantic about constantly reminding your partner to pick up their damn socks already. Adults can put socks in hampers, I’m just saying.
Sean Pyles:
That’s very true. Well, the hard thing is that with money, this can be a really easy dynamic to slip into because one person might know more about managing money than the other, so they end up just taking on all the money tasks or they delegate specific tasks to their partner, and if only one person knows about the finances of the household, that can be a very risky situation for both parties in the relationship.
Sara Rathner:
Exactly. And again, it’s totally fine and totally normal for one of you to feel more confident dealing with money. Maybe you’ve just managed your money differently back when you were single, maybe you work in finance. That is normal, but it’s still both of your responsibility.
And the same source that told me about the manager-follower dynamic also said to me that like any task, money tasks are things that you can learn by doing. So even if you are the less confident one in your relationship when it comes to these kinds of responsibilities, you can still grow your skill set. You can learn by doing. And so as you go forward in the future, you can take on more and more tasks with confidence and not fall into that dynamic where you’re constantly relying on the other person to tell you what to do.
Sean Pyles:
Let’s turn to some solutions. You first suggest that couples approach money as equals, which sounds great. Is the idea here that no one person in the relationship should have more power over their finances than another?
Sara Rathner:
Absolutely. The dynamic where one person handles everything and the other person could not be bothered to know the passwords to any accounts is not good. That’s not a healthy dynamic. At best, it’s unfair. The division of labor is, in that case, is putting a lot of that work on only one person’s shoulders, and at worst, it could be a sign of financial abuse. Withholding your partner’s access to finances is sometimes a situation where you are dealing with abuse and that’s something to keep your eyes open about. But even if your partner is totally happy to hand off the work and know nothing of the household finances, they could end up in a really tough spot if your relationship ends, either through divorce or breaking up or even if the partner passes away.
Sean Pyles:
So it might be a good idea for couples that are living together, have a long-term relationship, and have somewhat intermingled finances to even know the logins to each other’s accounts. Is that something that you’ve explored too?
Sara Rathner:
Yeah, you could even use a password manager to do that because you can share passwords with each other very easily or you could be really lo-fi about it and just have a list stored in a secure place like a safe that you keep updated once a year. You definitely want to both be equal partners in access to the money even if you don’t necessarily divvy up those month-to-month or week-to-week tasks equally.
Sean Pyles:
Well, what about actually getting those money tasks done? How should couples determine who does what?
Sara Rathner:
Well, this is where the whole money date thing comes, and we talk about this a lot. Sit down, pour yourself the beverage of choice, a cup of tea, a glass of wine, and have a chat about what bills are due, what savings goals you have, which kid has outgrown their clothes and needs to go shopping because that’s also a financial thing, all those sorts of money-related responsibilities that you have coming up in the next week, the next month, even the next three months. And in that conversation, you can also divide up the tasks.
Sean Pyles:
And it can be helpful to have different types of meetings at different times. Maybe once a quarter you have a higher-level meeting where you think about where you want to be at the end of that quarter or at the end of the year. And then at the beginning of each month, you can think, “Okay, here are the things we need to get done this month,” and then maybe even on a weekly basis, you can think more tactically around, “Okay, we need to get a bunch of whatever thing at Costco this week and that’s going to be a bigger bite out of our grocery budget, so let’s make sure we make room for that,” just so you have different conversations at different levels as you are managing your finances together.
Sara Rathner:
Yes, and I like to think of it in terms of that timeframe. What has to be done in the next few days, what has to be done this month, and then what’s a longer-term conversation?
Sean Pyles:
Well, this reminds me a little bit about how my partner and I manage other household tasks like doing the dishes, for example. In general, in our household, whoever cooks dinner does not have to load the dishwasher, and if you load the dishwasher, you don’t have to unload the dishwasher when it’s clean. And for us, it really comes down to being about balance.
Sara Rathner:
Exactly. And by splitting up responsibilities this way, you’re also acknowledging the labor that the person who cooked is performing. You do the dishes because you respect the work it took for the other person to cook. And in my house, because we have the baby to wrangle, I do most of the cooking. While I am doing that, my husband is handling the child care because I don’t want to stop cooking to change a dirty diaper because that’s unsanitary. So in our home, it’s this acknowledgement of, “You are 100% dealing with a baby and I’m 100% dealing with the cooking, and we have to split this moment up in order for us to get dinner on the table.”
Sean Pyles:
Well, do you have any other advice for how couples, or I guess anyone co-managing a household together, can find a more harmonious way to manage their finances?
Sara Rathner:
So another thing is once you divvy up those tasks during that money date, another really important thing is owning tasks that you agree to take on from start to finish. And this is where we talk about weaponized incompetence and all those psychological phrases that get thrown around on social media when you say you’re going to do something and you don’t do it and you’re, “Eh, it’s too hard.” No, it’s not.
Sean Pyles:
Just do it.
Sara Rathner:
Right. If you show your partner that you’re going to agree to do something and then you don’t do it to an agreed upon level of completion, you’re showing them that they can’t trust you.
So in your money date, not only do you talk about the major overarching tasks that you both need to complete, but you can break them down into subtasks so it doesn’t feel quite so intimidating. So if you’re the one to step up to own a task, that means you take care of it from start to finish, and it doesn’t mean you can’t ask for help if you get stuck. You are still partners, but you are just the one spearheading everything.
Sean Pyles:
Well, Sara, thanks for sharing your insights. I like hanging out in this corner with you. It’s cozy.
Sara Rathner:
I’ll bring a second blanket for next time-
Sean Pyles:
Thank you.
Sara Rathner:
… so we could build a fort together.
Sean Pyles:
I love it. And listener, if you want to check out Sara’s article, you can find a link to it in this episode’s show notes.
And now let’s check in on this month’s Nerdy question, which was what’s the best thing you spent money on this month? Last week, we heard from a listener who spent money on a third opinion from a doctor ahead of a major surgery and was able to find a more effective and less invasive way to resolve their pain. So hooray for taking charge of your own healthcare.
Sara Rathner:
And here’s what another listener texted us. “Hello. My favorite purchase so far is a used grand piano. I paid $4,000 and $1,000 to move it to my apartment on the third floor, no elevator, but it’s the best money I spent.” Wow. “I practice more than four times a week and it’s worth every penny.”
Sean Pyles:
Ugh, I love that this listener is spending money on something that is both a creative outlet and also likely a very beautiful thing to just have in their apartment. And I’m not going to pretend like spending $5,000 is nothing, it’s a significant chunk of change, but I’m willing to bet that they will get some good use out of it and it might just end up that they put some family photos on it eventually after the novelty of having a piano wears off, but still, it’ll be nice to look at.
Sara Rathner:
Also, I’ll say that having lived in a third-floor walk-up apartment, can I just say how impressed I am that it’s possible to get a grand piano up there? Because that was not what the staircase was like in the apartment building I was living in. Maybe you could hoist it through a window?
Sean Pyles:
Yes, I think you do have to do that. You take out the window. Sometimes you have to get a permit from the city. It can easily be $1,000 or more depending on where you are.
Well, listeners, we have so loved hearing from you and all of the great things that you are doing with your money. So to share the best thing that you spent money on last month, text us or leave a voicemail on the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373. That’s 901-730-NERD, or email us a voice memo at [email protected].
Sara Rathner:
And while you’re at it, send us your money questions too. It is quite literally our job to answer them and we love to hear what situations you’re mulling over. So please tell us and we’ll try and solve these problems together.
Sean Pyles:
Well, before we get into this episode’s money question, we have an exciting announcement. We are running another book giveaway sweepstakes ahead of our next Nerdy Book Club episode.
Sara Rathner:
Our next guest is Jake Cousineau, author of How to Adult: Personal Finance for the Real World, which offers tips to young people on how to get started with managing their money.
Sean Pyles:
To enter for a chance to win our book giveaway, send an email to [email protected] with the subject “Book Sweepstakes” during the sweepstakes period. Entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on May 17th. Include the following information: your first and last name, email address, zip code, and phone number. For more information, please visit our official sweepstakes rules page.
Now let’s get into my conversation with our co-host, Elizabeth Ayoola, about whether fiduciaries are all they’re hyped up to be.
We’re back and answering your money questions to help you make smarter financial decisions. And this episode’s question comes from Ian, who wrote us an email. Here it is. “Hi, team. I hear fiduciaries being peddled like some kind of miracle cure for financial planning, but I’m curious how being a fiduciary actually works. What is the enforcement mechanism? Is there a licensing body, like for nurses or doctors? What makes a fiduciary more trustworthy than someone who is making a promise that they totally have your best interest in mind? Cheers, Ian.”
Elizabeth Ayoola:
This is a good question to ask, especially if you’re trusting someone with your money. And I really like this topic because I recently covered it in a paraplanner course I’m taking. Sean, I know you’re also in the deep waters of coursework since you’re studying to become a certified financial planner professional, which is a fiduciary role. So you’re going to answer Ian’s question so we can test your knowledge.
Sean Pyles:
That is right.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Sean Pyles:
A fiduciary is just a fancy term for someone who has an obligation, usually a legal or professional obligation, to put their client’s interests before their own. A fiduciary can be a doctor caring for your health, a family member managing someone’s estate, or in this case, a financial professional who is managing the personal finances of their clients.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Okay. So in summary, a fiduciary prioritizes you and not their pockets.
Sean Pyles:
That is the idea and the hope, but there’s a little more to it than that, and I really have to hand it to this listener because I appreciate their skepticism about what it means to be a fiduciary because they are touted as the gold standard among financial advisors.
I also think we need to zoom out a little bit and talk about what it means to be a financial advisor because the term “financial advisor” is not regulated. Anyone can call themselves a financial advisor, even the sketchiest, hustle-culture peddlers on TikTok.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
I actually think we could do an entire episode on that, Sean. Right now there’s so many people sharing financial advice, and I’m afraid that people might not be doing enough vetting before taking these people’s financial advice, or even realizing that all advice shared doesn’t have their best interests at heart.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. And as a side note, I’m not a fan of imposter syndrome, but the personal finance space is one where maybe more people should feel imposter syndrome because there are just too many people online without qualifications or experience telling others what to do with their money.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
I second that. And the wrong advice could really lead to great financial chaos for people, so they should absolutely be scared of sharing inaccurate or misleading advice.
Sean Pyles:
Totally. And if I’m being completely honest with myself, part of why I’m pursuing the CFP certification is to quell my own occasional imposter syndrome because I, as a professional in the personal finance space, want to get as much information as I can and I want to be as qualified as I can be to help others, but that’s just me holding myself to a very high standard that I think maybe other people should hold themselves to as well.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
And that’s why I like you, Sean. Okay, obviously there’s other reasons I like you too, but that’s exactly why I’m doing my qualification also because I want to share accurate advice with people. And I love to answer my friends and family’s finances questions when I can, so I want to make sure I actually know what I’m talking about.
Anyway, so back to our listener’s question. Ian wants to know how being a fiduciary actually works in the financial planning space. CFPs are a fiduciary, so how does that actually work in practice, Sean?
Sean Pyles:
Yeah, that’s a good question because Ian asked about licensing to affirm that someone is a fiduciary, and in the personal finance space, that usually means getting a CFP certification, which is the gold standard of education and conduct in the financial planning space. So please indulge me as I give you a sip of the Kool-Aid that I’ve been drinking during my CFP coursework, and I’ll explain what it means to be a certified financial planner professional/fiduciary.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Come on. Tell us, Sean.
Sean Pyles:
Okay. So part of becoming a certified financial planner involves intensive education, passing a difficult exam, but then once you are certified, you have to act according to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct that are outlined by the CFP Board. And there are three parts to this fiduciary duty that is also outlined by the Standard of Conduct.
So first, there’s a duty of loyalty, which states that a CFP professional has to put their client’s interests ahead of their own, like we talked about before. They also have to avoid, disclose, and manage conflicts of interest, and they must only act in the financial interest of the client, not themselves or the firm that they work for. They also have a duty of care, which basically mandates that the CFP professional has to be competent and do their best to help their clients meet their financial goals. Also, they have a duty to follow client instructions, where a CFP professional has to abide by the terms of the engagement with their clients.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Wow, that is a lot, but honestly, it would give me confidence as a client to know that someone jumped through all those hoops for me.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah, and that’s really just scratching the surface, too. And the Standard of Conduct is a big part of why being a CFP is a big deal in the personal finance space.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
But here’s the thing, Sean, our listener, and to be honest, me too, is also wondering about enforcement. So let’s say a CFP professional decides to prioritize them making an extra dollar over what’s best for the client, and I don’t know, let’s say they push them into an investment or some kind of insurance product that isn’t actually a good fit for the client. What happens then? Do they call the cops? What do we do?
Sean Pyles:
The police are not involved in this unfortunately, but there is an enforcement mechanism at the CFP Board. If someone suspects that a CFP isn’t living up to their fiduciary responsibilities, they can file a complaint with the board and the board will investigate, and there are a number of disciplinary actions that it could take, including stripping someone of their certification.
The thing is, the onus is typically on the clients to file the complaints, and that’s part of why hiring a financial professional, hiring a CFP doesn’t mean that you can totally sit back and ignore your money. You still have to be engaged and monitor what’s going on.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
For sure, I learned that the hard way, so I try to learn things here and there. But thanks for explaining that.
I do have another question though. How would the client even know if they aren’t financially savvy or if they have a sketchy history? Are there some telltale signs?
Sean Pyles:
Yeah, this is the really tricky part, right? You’re going to this financial professional because of their expertise, so they probably know more about this topic than you do, and that can make it hard to know if they are BSing you or maybe more likely to violate their ethical duty later on. There are a couple of things that you can do though.
Before you even hire a financial professional, do your due diligence and shop around. I would recommend talking with a few different financial advisors before you decide which one you want to work with long-term. You can think of it like dating in that way. You want to get to know them and feel that you can trust them. And then once you are in this vetting process, I would say turn to our old friend Google and dig into each planner that you’re considering a little bit, like you would anyone that you’re dating. Verify that they actually have the certification that they say they do, and look and see if they’ve had any disciplinary actions that have been marked against them publicly. Also, you can just Google around and see if they’ve done anything else that you find suspicious or weird that you just aren’t on board with.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Wow. I love those tips, Sean. And I also must say, when you said, “Your old friend Google,” it just reminded me about how long I’ve been in a long-term relationship with Google, but the tip’s definitely way more important. So basically, you’re telling us to put our investigator hat on. So okay, what’s the other thing you think people should do?
Sean Pyles:
Okay, so this might sound a little bit squishy, but go with your gut. If you talk with someone enough, you can probably tell if they aren’t confident in their grasp of the information they’re presenting. And even if they are, you might find that they just have a different money philosophy from you, which can signal that you guys are not compatible. For example, I once worked with a financial planner who suggested that I could take a 401(k) loan to solve a short-term cashflow issue that I had. And I personally happened to think that taking a loan against my own retirement for a problem that was going to work itself out anyway was an exceptionally bad idea, so I decided to work with another financial planner instead from that point on.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Wow, that advice does not sound good, especially if it was suggested before exploring other alternatives that may not set you back for retirement. And I do understand that some people have to take out a loan against their 401(k), and that’s the only option that they have, but the downside is it might set you back, but I’m glad you went with your gut.
Sean Pyles:
Right. It wasn’t right from my circumstances or how I like to manage my money, and that’s what the bottom line was for me.
Now, so far, Elizabeth, we’ve been talking a lot about CFPs because that really is going to be the primary type of fiduciary that a lot of people looking for financial planning will encounter, but I want to go back to the idea that there are a lot of other people out there giving personal finance advice.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Mm-hmm. People on TikTok, your nosy friends who are always getting in your business, the people interrupting my YouTube videos with their long-winded ads.
Sean Pyles:
Yes, but also accredited financial coaches and certified financial therapists. Both of those are fiduciaries, but they have different standards of conduct and enforcement mechanisms.
Elizabeth, I know that you have some experience working with financial therapists, so can you give us the rundown on what they do and why someone might benefit from working with one?
Elizabeth Ayoola:
I do, I do have experience with that, Sean. I am a wellness fanatic, that’s just a personal note, so I love the topic of financial therapy and also financial wellness. So essentially a financial therapist can help investors understand their worries and their fears around money. They also help you identify the feelings and the beliefs that you have around your money and your habits. Another way to put it is they help you identify and eliminate your money blocks, which are things getting in the way of you achieving your financial goals.
Sean Pyles:
And financial coaches are somewhere between a CFP and a financial therapist. They help people meet their financial goals, and they might be better suited to help those who aren’t super high-net-worth, don’t have a lot of investable assets. Accredited financial coaches also have a specific focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, which is really important in the personal finance space, considering the racial and gender financial inequity in this country.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Absolutely. They’re doing good work and we have a lot of work to do to close the gap, but as a woman and a Black woman at that, I hope we see more progress in coming years.
Sean Pyles:
So we’ve just run through a few different types of fiduciary financial professionals, and here’s my bottom line: if you are getting individualized financial advice, it’s probably for the best if that person is also a fiduciary because you know that that is a stamp of credibility, and it goes way beyond a financial influencer on TikTok telling you to sign up for their class and then peddling some investment account from a company that’s really just bankrolling their lifestyle.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
1,000%. I know me personally, I’m at a point where I’m growing wealth and I’m trying to make the right investment choices so I can see positive growth in the coming years. On that note, I would definitely go to a fiduciary if I was stuck trying to make a tough financial decision.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. At the least, when you are receiving financial advice from someone, whether in person, on social media, or even on a podcast, I think people should ask themselves three questions: what is this person’s qualifications, how are they getting paid, and why are they doing this?
Elizabeth Ayoola:
I definitely think more people should ask those questions. But Sean, say more about that money part because that’s a big piece of the puzzle too.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. Well, in the financial planning space, there are three main ways that people are compensated beyond a base salary. They can be fee-only, fee-based, and commission-based.
So when you meet with a fee-only advisor, they might charge you an hourly fee or a fee based on a certain percentage of your assets that they’re managing, maybe 1 or 2%. That’s pretty common. And fee-based is really similar, but there is a key difference, and that is that this advisor might get a commission from products that they sell you, like an insurance product or a specific investment account. And commission-based is exactly that: the advisor makes their money from selling financial products. So you can probably imagine why the commission-based pay structure gives some people pause.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
For sure. And then even if the advisor is a fiduciary, being commission-based could muddy the waters a little bit.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. And for those who are really concerned about any conflicts of interest in the financial advisor space, fee-only might be the route where they feel most comfortable.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Well, Sean, thank you for this rundown of what it means to be a fiduciary. Your coursework is courseworking, and I can see the studying is paying off. Do you have any final words?
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. I’d say that if you want a financial professional to help you with your finances, vet them thoroughly, shop around, and remember that at the end of the day, you have to be your own best advocate to get what you want from your money.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
Absolutely. And that’s all we have for this episode. Sean, thank you for educating we the people. Remember, we are here for you and we want to hear your money questions to help you make smarter financial decisions, so turn to the Nerds and call or text us your questions at 901-730-6373. That’s 901-730-NERD. You can also email us at [email protected], and also visit nerdwallet.com/podcast for more information on this particular episode. And remember to follow, rate, and review us wherever you’re getting this podcast.
Sean Pyles:
This episode was produced by Tess Vigeland and me. Sara Brink mixed our audio. And a big thank you to NerdWallet’s editors for all their help.
And here’s our brief disclaimer. We are not financial or investment advisors. This nerdy info is provided for general educational and entertainment purposes and may not apply to your specific circumstances.
Elizabeth Ayoola:
And with that said, until next time, turn to the Nerds.
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.