You’re short on cash and need to make 100 bucks really, really quick? I’ve got your back. If you search the internet for this, the usual stuff will come up. But I’m here with something fresh and new that nobody’s even talking about. These are things that actually work. So, without boring you with fluff, let’s
Side Hustle Comparison
8 Creative Side Hustles
1. Sell Cookies to Realtors
Ever thought about baking your way to extra cash? Here’s a sweet idea: sell cookies to realtors. They’re always looking for ways to make their open houses more inviting, and who can resist the smell of fresh-baked cookies?
How much can I earn selling cookies to realtors?
You’d be surprised. If you play your cards right, you could make around $150 a week. Not bad for some sugar and flour, huh?
What equipment do I need to get started?
Nothing fancy. Just your regular kitchen stuff – an oven, some baking sheets, and maybe a mixer if you wanna get fancy. Oh, and don’t forget those cute little boxes to package your goodies.
Walk into a real estate office with a sample box. Trust me, they’ll be sold before they even take a bite. It’s all about that “homey” feeling they’re after.
2. Drone Photography for Real Estate
Got a drone collecting dust? Time to make it earn its keep. Real estate agents are always after those jaw-dropping aerial shots.
What licenses or certifications do I need for drone photography?
You’ll need to get your Part 107 certification from the FAA. Sounds scary, but it’s just a test. Study up, ace it, and you’re good to go.
How much should I charge for my drone photography services?
Start around $150 per shoot. Once you’ve got some killer shots in your portfolio, you can bump it up. Some pros charge over $500 for a full package.
Focus on big properties. Think mansions, sprawling estates, or properties with awesome views. Anything that looks “meh” from the ground but “wow” from the air.
3. Virtual Event Planning
With everything going online these days, virtual event planning is hot. If you can wrangle a Zoom call without wanting to pull your hair out, you’re already ahead of the game.
What skills do I need to become a virtual event planner?
You need to be organized as hell and cool under pressure. Tech skills are a must – if you can troubleshoot a frozen screen in seconds, you’re golden.
How do I find clients for virtual event planning?
Start with your network. Hit up local businesses on social media. Everyone’s doing virtual events these days, from birthday parties to corporate shindigs.
What software or tools are essential for virtual event planning?
- Zoom (the biggie)
- Hopin
- Eventbrite
Invest in a good headset. Clear audio is key for successful virtual events.
4. Social Media Content Creation for Local Businesses
Small businesses need social media, but most owners don’t have the time or know-how. That’s where you come in, social media guru.
How much should I charge for social media content creation?
Start at about $300 per month per client. As you build your portfolio and they see results, you can jack that up.
What platforms should I focus on for local businesses?
Facebook and Instagram are your bread and butter. If it’s a younger crowd, don’t sleep on TikTok. But really, it depends on where their customers hang out.
How can I demonstrate the value of my services to potential clients?
Show, don’t tell. Whip up some sample posts for their business. If you can say “I grew Joe’s Plumbing’s Instagram by 500% in three months,” you’re in.
5. Personal Chef for Meal Prep
People want to eat healthy but don’t have the time. Enter you, the meal prep hero.
What certifications do I need to become a personal chef?
A food handler’s certificate is a must. Consider a culinary school certificate too – it’ll make you look legit.
How do I create a menu that caters to different dietary needs?
Listen to your clients. Keto, vegan, gluten-free – learn the basics of each. And always have some crowd-pleasers up your sleeve. You can’t go wrong with a good chicken dish.
What equipment is essential for a meal prep business?
- Good knives
- Sturdy cutting boards
- Tons of storage containers
- A reliable car for deliveries
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6. Pet Portrait Artist
Got a knack for capturing Fido’s good side? Turn that talent into cash as a pet portrait artist. People are nuts about their furry friends and will pay good money for a nice picture.
What materials do I need to create pet portraits?
- Pencils and paper for sketching
- Paints and canvas for traditional art
- Tablet and software for digital art
How should I price my pet portrait services?
As you get better, you can charge more. Some folks are making big bucks for a fancy oil painting of Mr. Whiskers.
Hit up local pet shops, groomers, and vets. Leave some samples and business cards. And don’t forget Instagram – pet lovers are all over that.
7. Mobile Car Detailing
People love clean cars but hate the hassle. Bring the car wash to them and watch the money roll in.
What equipment do I need to start a mobile car detailing business?
- A reliable van or truck
- Pressure washer
- Vacuum
- Cleaning products
- Lots of microfiber towels
How do I price my mobile car detailing services?
Location matters too – fancy neighborhoods mean fancier prices.
Offer eco-friendly options like biodegradable cleaning products and waterless washes. People dig that “green” stuff, and it’s good for the planet too.
8. Rent Your Parking Space
Got a parking spot you’re not using? Put it to work.
How much can I earn by renting out my parking space?
Not bad for doing absolutely nothing.
What apps or platforms can I use to list my parking space?
Try JustPark or SpotHero. They handle all the booking stuff, so you just sit back and collect.
Check with your landlord if you’re renting. Homeowners, peek at your local zoning laws. Don’t want any surprise fines ruining your easy money.
9. Voice Acting for Audiobooks
Got a voice that could melt butter? Time to cash in on it.
What equipment do I need to start voice acting from home?
- A decent mic
- Pop filter
- Quiet recording space (your closet works in a pinch!)
How do I create a voice acting demo reel?
Pick a mix of stuff – some fiction, some non-fiction. Keep it short and sweet, about 1-2 minutes. Show off your range, but don’t go overboard.
Where can I find voice acting gigs for audiobooks?
- ACX (Amazon’s audiobook platform)
- Voices.com
- Fiverr
Start small, build up those reviews. Your reputation is everything in the voice acting world.
10. Upcycled Furniture Flipping
One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Or in this case, your cash cow.
Where can I source furniture for upcycling?
- Thrift stores
- Garage sales
- Facebook Marketplace
- Bulk trash days in fancy neighborhoods
What tools and materials are essential for furniture flipping?
- Sandpaper
- Paint and brushes
- Good set of screwdrivers
- Power sander (to save your arms)
How do I price my upcycled furniture pieces?
Factor in your costs (furniture, supplies, time) and double it. If you put 5 hours into a piece, and materials cost $50, don’t sell for less than $200.
11. Virtual Interior Design Consultant
Help people spruce up their space without ever leaving yours. It’s like playing The Sims, but you get paid.
What software do I need for virtual interior design?
- SketchUp or Homestyler for 3D designs
- Canva for mood boards
- PowerPoint (don’t underestimate it!)
How do I create a portfolio for virtual interior design?
Start with your own place. Friends’ homes work too. Or create some fantasy rooms. Just make sure they look pro.
Video calls are your friend. Screen sharing lets you walk clients through your ideas in real-time. And always follow up with a detailed email.
12. Eco-Friendly Product Reviewer
If you’re all about that green life, why not make some green reviewing eco products?
How do I approach companies for product reviews?
Start small. Hit up local or new eco-brands on Instagram. As you build a following, bigger fish will come to you.
What metrics should I track to demonstrate my influence to brands?
Followers are cool, but engagement is king. Show brands how many people comment, share, and actually buy based on your reviews.
How can I monetize my eco-friendly product reviews?
Affiliate links are your bread and butter. You get a cut when people buy through your link. Sponsored posts work too, once you’ve got a decent following.
13. Niche Travel Planning
Everyone and their dog is a “travel influencer” these days. Stand out by picking a niche.
How do I choose a travel planning niche?
Think about what you know best. Solo female travelers? Vegan foodie tours? Adventure sports junkies? The more specific, the better.
What certifications might be helpful for a niche travel planner?
A travel agent certification looks good. But real-world experience in your niche is worth way more. Been to 50 countries solo? That’s your certification right there.
How do I build relationships with local vendors and tour operators?
Start by actually using their services. Give honest feedback. Join travel industry groups online. And when you’re traveling, always be networking. You never know when that random bartender might become a valuable contact.
14. Remote Tech Support
If you can fix a computer without wanting to throw it out the window, you’re already ahead of most people. Why not cash in on those skills?
What qualifications do I need to offer remote tech support?
Honestly? Patience and Google-fu. But if you want to look fancy, grab a CompTIA A+ certification. It’s like a gold star for tech geeks.
How do I set up a secure system for remote access to clients’ devices?
- TeamViewer
- AnyDesk
Just make sure your clients aren’t sharing their passwords on a Post-it note stuck to their monitor.
What pricing model works best for remote tech support services?
Just don’t leave the meter running while you’re scratching your head.
15. Custom Enamel Pin Designer
Tiny metal art that people stick on their jackets and bags. It’s a whole thing, and you can cash in on it.
How do I find a reliable manufacturer for enamel pins?
- PinLord
- Made By Cooper
- Alibaba (if you’re feeling brave)
Just make sure to get samples before you go all in.
What’s the process for creating a custom enamel pin design?
- Sketch your idea
- Clean it up in Illustrator
- Keep it simple – tiny details get lost
- Pick 3-5 colors max
- Send it off to the manufacturer
Where can I sell my custom enamel pins?
- Etsy (pin central)
- Your own website
- Craft fairs and conventions
16. Virtual Fitness Instructor
People want to get fit without leaving their living room. Be their go-to sweat guru.
What equipment do I need to start teaching fitness classes online?
- Good camera
- Quality microphone
- Proper lighting
- Workout gear
How do I create engaging workout routines for virtual classes?
Mix it up. High-intensity stuff, yoga, dance – keep ’em guessing. And talk to your camera like it’s your best friend. Energy is everything.
What platforms are best for hosting virtual fitness sessions?
- Zoom for live classes
- YouTube for recorded content
- Moxie for fitness-specific features
17. Mushroom Foraging Guide
Turns out people will pay to hunt for fungi. Who knew?
What certifications or knowledge do I need to become a mushroom foraging guide?
There’s no “official” mushroom degree, but take some mycology courses. Join a local mushroom club. And for the love of all that’s holy, learn to ID poisonous ones.
How do I ensure the safety of participants during foraging tours?
Rule number one: “When in doubt, throw it out.” Bring first aid kits. And make everyone sign a waiver. Better safe than sorry.
What resources can help me stay updated on local mushroom species and regulations?
- Field guides
- Local mycological societies’ social media
- Park ranger connections
18. 3D Printing Service
Got a 3D printer? Put that bad boy to work.
What type of 3D printer should I invest in for a side business?
Prusa i3 MK3S+ is a solid workhorse. But if you’re just testing the waters, an Ender 3 will do the job without breaking the bank.
How do I price my 3D printing services?
Factor in material costs, electricity, and wear and tear on your printer. Then add your time. A good rule of thumb? $1 per hour of printing, plus materials.
What are some popular niches for 3D printing services?
- Custom miniatures for D&D enthusiasts
- Prototype parts for inventors
- Replacement parts for appliances
19. Personal Stylist for Video Calls
Help people look less like they just rolled out of bed for their Zoom calls.
How do I conduct a virtual styling session effectively?
Start with a questionnaire to get their vibe. Then do a closet audit over video. Give ’em a mix of what they have and what they need to buy.
What tools can help me create digital wardrobe lookbooks for clients?
- Canva for professional-looking layouts
- Pinterest boards for inspiration
How do I market my video call styling services to professionals?
LinkedIn is where the suits hang out. Offer free “Zoom-ready in 5 minutes” tips to reel ’em in. Then upsell your full service.
20. Urban Farming Consultant
Green thumbs unite! Help city folks grow their own grub.
What knowledge or certifications are helpful for urban farming consulting?
A degree in horticulture is nice, but not necessary. Master Gardener certification is gold. And hands-on experience? Priceless.
How do I create customized urban farming plans for different spaces?
Start with a site visit. Sun, shade, soil – it all matters. Then match plants to the space and the person. Not everyone can handle high-maintenance veggies.
What are some common challenges in urban farming that I should be prepared to address?
- Limited space
- Pest control without harmful chemicals
- Dealing with neighbors who might not appreciate your vision
Diplomacy is key when dealing with neighbors. Sometimes a free tomato or two can win them over!
Maximizing Your Success in Side Hustle
Alright, you’ve picked your hustle. Now let’s talk about making it rain.
Don’t half-ass it: Yeah, it’s a side gig, but treat it like it’s your main squeeze. Quality work = repeat customers.
Time is money: Figure out when you’re most productive and milk those hours for all they’re worth.
Network like crazy: Tell everyone what you’re doing. Your next big client might be your neighbor’s cousin’s dog walker.
Keep learning: YouTube university is always open. Skill up and stay ahead of the game.
Track your cash: Know what’s coming in and going out. Uncle Sam’s gonna want his cut, so keep those receipts.
