Given the state of things, and the current crisis, no one can blame you if you’re looking to earn money on the side. The “gig economy” has become a popular way for people to use their extra time in a way that supports their financial situation.
Though things are changing rapidly in the “new normal,” there are still opportunities to be had. Some are more conventional than others, but if you’re looking to make a few extra dollars, try out these seven ideas.
1. Get on YouTube
Your kids might have elicited a scoff from you by sharing their dreams of growing up and becoming YouTubers, but this is a legitimate means of making money.
That’s not to say that it’s for everyone — you need to have some real content to share with the world — but if you have a story to tell, a skill you can share like cooking or art, or just some entertaining content to help pass the hours, you can create a monetized channel. In fact, it’s probably wise to aim to have a combination of those things.
2. Restore That Car You Never Had Time For
Car sales are in the tank right now. But it’s reasonable to expect that people will return to the roads when this is all over. You know that “project car” that’s been sitting in the garage? Now’s the time to double-check your parts list and get to wrenching.
Car restoration is 100% social-distancing-approved — and when are you going to have this much time to dedicate to your project again? The vehicle will be worth more when you’re done. Just be careful. If you fall in love after restoring it, you may not make a penny.
3. Add Value to Your Home
Speaking of projects, home improvement projects are probably a more marketable investment than automobiles. Even though housing has receded in some places, a home with more improvements will still hold a higher value than one without. Sweat equity is sweat equity any way you look at it.
If you need cash quickly, this might not be the best route to take. However, you will get the benefit of enjoying whatever improvements you make on a day-to-day basis. That means a better quality of life for you and your family.
4. Invest Your Money
Speaking of investing, you can do just that. When you hear the term “investing,” you probably think about trading shares of companies on the stock market. That’s one way to invest your money and, if you’re smart, make some dollars on the side. However, you can also invest in a variety of other things. You can invest in commodities like gold and oil or, if you want to be trendy, check out the cryptocurrency market.
Just be aware that there’s no guarantee with investments. You have to understand what you’re buying and why it’s likely to increase in value. There is usually a greater risk of loss involved with investments that have the potential to earn more.
5. Sell Things You Don’t Need
Have a few old iPhones that you were holding onto as a just-in-case? What about that automatic watch you bought years ago thinking it was just the thing to complement your new blazer? Whatever you’ve got, someone will take it off your hands for the right price.
You can let the world know what’s up for grabs by using an auction site, or you can use a more conventional service. The key to getting top-dollar? Have a detailed listing with easy-to-view pictures in a high resolution and be responsive to user questions.
6. Take Up Freelance Work
Freelance content creation, in general, is always in-demand. Whether you’re talented at designing websites, coding applications or writing compelling copy, you can earn money on the side.
There are online platforms like Upwork, Flexjobs, and Bark that you can leverage to get attention, compile a portfolio and draw in additional business. If you’re good at what you do, you might even get lucky and transition to your freelance gig full-time.
7. Rent a Parking Spot
It might seem like it’s too simple, but if you’ve ever lived in the city, you know how difficult it can be to find parking. If you own a parking spot that’s not being used, or if you’re using it for a car that never moves, you are sitting on potential income.
Free that space up and let someone pay you to make use of it. All it takes is a simple listing posted online to earn money on the side. You could probably even use paper, given how hungry folks are for parking.
Time to Start Earning
You probably didn’t even think there were so many ways to add to your bottom line. Some might ask you to get out of your comfort zone a little, but you’ll be learning a new skill and putting money in the bank.
That’s not such a bad compromise. Besides — the more you earn money on the side, the less discomforting you’ll find it. Happy earning!
Dylan Bartlett is a men’s lifestyle blogger from the City of Brotherly Love. He runs the site Just a Regular Guide, looking at other topics related to health and wellness, relationships, the outdoors and DIY. You can follow him on Twitter @a_regular_guide to get frequent updates on his work.
