Who says you need to spend money to make money? If you’ve got stuff lying around at home, you’ve already got the foundation for a solid, easy side hustle. Whether it’s selling forgotten items, renting out underused gear, or monetizing skills you already have, there’s no reason to overcomplicate things in order to boost your income.
The best side hustles don’t always require big investments; they call for resourcefulness, patience, and a bit of grit. Ready to turn clutter into cash? Here are 10 ways to start.
1. Flip Furniture
That scratched-up dresser or wobbly desk might not look like much now, but slap on a fresh coat of paint and some TLC, and it can turn into a hot resale item. Mid-century modern, farmhouse, and industrial styles sell particularly well, especially if you’re able to add new hardware or give it some minor repairs. Consider scouring thrift stores and garage sales, or setting up alerts on online sites like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist for cheap finds, then re-finish and flip them for a profit.
Pro tip: Invest some time in staging and taking quality photos — buyers love seeing how furniture looks in a real home.
2. Sell Your Old Clothes
If your wardrobe is packed with clothes you never wear anymore (looking at you, skinny jeans), why not turn them into cash? Platforms like Poshmark, Mercari, and ThreadUp make it easy to monetize your spring cleaning by allowing sellers to snap their own pictures, write descriptions, and set their own prices. When listing items for sale, focus on quality or well-known brands, vintage items, or gently-worn staples that still have plenty of life left.
Pro tip: Bundle similar items (like jeans or blouses) to attract buyers looking for multiple pieces at a discount.
3. Rent Out Your Camera Gear
Got a DSLR, GoPro, or even a drone collecting dust in the garage? Photographers and videographers are often in need of pricey equipment for one-off projects but don’t want to spend a fortune buying brand new. Enter you. By listing your forgotten tech on sites like ShareGrid or LensRentals, you can set your availability and start earning passive income. Consider including clearly-stated rental terms and safeguards (like deposit requirements or insurance) to protect your gear from potential damage.
4. Host a Garage Sale
As the saying goes, one man’s trash is another’s treasure — and you never know what gems you own that might be valuable to others. To host a yard or garage sale, gather old books, kitchen gadgets, toys, and electronics, then price them reasonably so they move quickly. Promote your upcoming sale by posting it on local Facebook groups, Craigslist, and with bright signs around the neighborhood. To maximize sales, consider offering bundle deals (think “fill a bag for $5”) for smaller items.
5. Freelance With Your Laptop
If you can write, design, code, or even manage social media, freelancing can be a lucrative (and flexible) way to boost your income. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal connect you with clients in need of everything from proofreading to logo designs. The best part? You don’t need to spend any money to get started; all you need is a reliable computer and internet connection. Start by offering services in your strongest skill, then gradually expand as you gain confidence and reviews.
6. Tutoring or Coaching
Whether you’re a math wiz, fluent in another language, or a fitness enthusiast, there are people who will be willing to pay for your knowledge and expertise. To harness these opportunities, take advantage of online tools like Zoom and Google Meet for virtual sessions, or meet in person at a local library or coffee shop (just be sure to account for safety if meeting in person).
For academics or tutoring services, platforms like Wyzant can help you find students. If you’re offering fitness or music lessons, you can promote your services on social media or post on community boards in cafes, shops, or libraries to attract new clients.
7. Sell Homemade Crafts
If you’re crafty and enjoy DIY projects, why not monetize them? Knitted scarves, handmade candles, custom jewelry, or woodworking projects can sell for big bucks on Etsy or at local fairs and events. Use materials you already have, like leftover fabric or scrap wood, to keep costs low. Consider having high-quality photos and a strong brand story (think “hand-poured soy candles” or “vintage, custom-made cutting boards”) to help your products stand out among the sea of others.
8. Rent Out Your Parking Space
Live near a stadium, downtown area, or airport? Your unused driveway or parking spot could be a goldmine. List it on apps like SpotHero or Neighbor, especially if parking is scarce in your area, or if you live in a tourist hot spot like New York City or Los Angeles. The best part? There’s zero effort required on your part — just set the price and availability and watch the money pour in. Some people earn hundreds per month just for renting a space they weren’t using anyway.
9. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Animal lovers can turn their passion into profit by offering their services on apps like Rover or Wag. List your skills: Dog walking, pet sitting, or even boarding if you have the space. If you work from home and enjoy being indoors, why not get paid to hang out with furry friends while their owners are away? Build trust with repeat clients by sending daily photo updates and being reliable. Word-of-mouth referrals can also quickly grow this into a steady gig.
10. Sell Digital Printables
If you’re even slightly design-savvy, consider creating niche printables like planners, wall art, calendars, or budgeting sheets and selling them as instant downloads on Etsy or even Amazon. Use free tools like Canva to design them, then list them for passive income. The best part? No inventory, shipping, or capital needed — just upload and start earning.
Looking for more ways to make easy money?
If you’re someone who loves to dive deep into a topic, read 12 Money-Making Ideas for People Who Are Great at Research. You should also check out 10 Ways To Make Money Off Your Home — Without Moving and 18 Incredibly Weird Ways People Make Money.
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