Let’s face it, pundits claim that the economy is booming but most of us still feel the pinch when we need some extra cash. With summer coming there are plenty of distractions requiring a little extra in the coffer, am I right? Well don’t despair. With some creativity you can move your savings to the plus side. Here is a list of ideas, the majority of which don’t require an investment or highly specialized skills. (Of course if you have highly specialized abilities, tap into those to set yourself on the path to extra income!)
Spring Clean and Sell
Spring always signals the time to clean out the clutter. Clear the jam in your closets and garage; it may mean green in the bank. Some ways to sell include a yard sale, taking a space at a (low cost) flea market, or utilizing online auction/selling services like eBay and Craigslist.
Sell Online for Others
Many people are hesitant to try to sell their items online. If that is your thing offer it as a service, especially for furniture, household appliances, collectibles, and more. Collect a small commission for each sale.
Furniture Assembly
While we are talking about furniture, offer your services as a furniture assembler. For many people, this is just too far out of their wheelhouse. If you love to put stuff together, let people know!
Haul Away Junk
Got a truck or trailer? That’s money waiting to be earned. Offer your services for hauling away furniture, electronics, greenery, and more. Double check your local charges for disposal before giving a price quote.
Small Moving Services
Here’s another one that is a no brainer. Offer small moving services if you have the transportation and muscle, and set your geographic areas.
Dog Walking
If you are an animal lover, offer your services as dog walker. A great way to build up loyal customers and tie into higher priced pet sits for when they are out of town.
Become a Notary Public
Probably more for the self employed, since time is of the essence in this field. You want to make it convenient (maybe be a mobile notary public) so that using your services is more attractive than going to UPS or a bank. Read a great article here about this service.
Bake Goodies
Do you hear that your cakes, muffins, and brownies are scrumptious? Then put your cooking skills to work. Promote your goodies for how they’ll make upcoming events even more special—think graduations, Mother’s Day and Memorial Day. Let companies know about your culinary skills as well.
Hook up Swamp Coolers
If you are very competent in the ways of the swamp and have no fear of heights—offer turn on/turn off services. This is going to be a busy time quite soon.
Airbnb
This one requires a lot more time and commitment, but if you have a spare casita or room in your house it is a way to make quite a bit of money. Make sure you are in compliance with any local housing rules and lodging tax responsibilities. For example, in Santa Fe any short-term rental requirements include a business registration, a short-term rental permit or registration, and compliance with city codes.
Specialized Office Assistant
Are you a computer whiz, social media savant, or an organizational dynamo? Then turn these skills in cash.
Personal Assistant
For those with less hardcore office skills, you can offer services such as running errands for busy types, overseeing handyman and home repair, and more.
Yard Work
Again this varies as to just how skilled a laborer is needed for the job. But weed pulling is a huge one here in New Mexico.
Recycled Glass Pick Up
In some areas, glass is not on the schedule for recycling pick up through contracted trash services. However, many residents (Santa Fe I am talking about you) desire the ability to do so. There may be some green to be had if you set up a way to help your neighbors be green.
Be a Tutor
Got some education /teaching credentials and like to help students succeed? Create a one-on-one tutoring business that promotes good study and comprehension skills.
Be a Personal Shopper
While some think of this as a service for the high income bracket only, there is also a need for those who are housebound, getting older, or just too busy juggling life (working moms with young kids, for example) to get stuff done. Groceries might be a wonderful way to try this out.
Take Cars to the Car Wash
Water restrictions here in NM make going to the car wash a chore. Perhaps offer a contract like twice per month.
Be a House Sitter
There are plenty of people who have second homes here in NM, and need a person they can count on to make sure their home is secure.
Sell Your Crafts
Do you make adorable baby bibs, super cool jewelry, or hand-made soaps? Create a shop on Etsy and reach buyers in this unique crafting online market.
Be an Extra for the Film Industry
If you are available for long chunks of time (sometimes up to 12 hours at a time) and want to be on set, get yourself listed with local background casting companies. Check out this article from the Santa Fe Film Office, which has a great overview of being an extra.
The list of things to do to make extra income is endless. Consider what skills you have professionally or semi-professionally that may be worth shopping around. Here are a few more just to get you thinking. Good luck and happy selling yourself!
Personal Training
Personal Chef
Music Lessons
Bookkeeping
House Painting
Floor Installation
Party Planning
Home Decorator
Holiday Decorator
Computer Help
A New Mexican Perspective
