Looking to make some easy extra money this summer? Of course you are! However, you might not want to put in any extra labor or invest any additional time or money on lectures and workshops to do so, no problem! What if you could make money off of something you already own, without having to sell it? Could that idea make you a little “green” in more ways than one? Helping the environment by reusing something, all while making a little green for your self, not bad. Make some extra cash this summer by renting out your belongings.
Dust Off That Item and Start Making Cash!
Maybe you have a nice item that you don’t use every day, but you don’t want to sell, even as it sits in a closet or garage collecting dust? Dust it off and rent it out to someone who really wants to try it out! Many people are doing just that, using sites like Loanables, Zilok, Renty Thing and others to do so. From bikes, kayaks, guitars to pool tables, people can rent out their belongings through these platforms using secure payments. These platforms allow you to rent out your sought after items to individuals within your vicinity, supporting your fellow neighbors dreams and ambitions who want to stay on budget, all while making a little cash on the side for yourself. Most importantly, these platforms allow you to keep making money with each rental and if you ever want to use that item for yourself, you can, it’s still yours!
Help Someone Fulfill Their Dreams!
With a simple search someone can now have an experience they always wanted, but couldn’t afford. Someone now can complete a home improvement project without going broke on new tools and equipment. If you are the one with the sought after items, you now have an extra income. As a teacher, what do you have in your garage or closet that is waiting to make you more money and help fulfill someones dreams?
Are you a music teacher with a stockpile of instruments that are just waiting to play you the money song? How many instruments can you play at one time anyway? Might as well let someone enjoy your instrument and make you some money in the process. Check out sparkplug.com for some ideas.
Maybe you are an art teacher who loves photography and happens to have lots of cameras? Now you can rent out some of them and even teach someone how to use them before they set off on their explorations. Check out cameralends.com for ideas.
Perhaps you are an adventurous teacher that loves to go on camping trips, climbing expeditions, and river trips? Do you have more gear then you could possibly use in one lifetime? Did you have to give up one of your extra rooms just to store all your goods? Now you can make back some of your money by renting your adventure tools to adventures in need. Check out gearcommons.com for ideas.
I know a few teachers who have an RV for those long family road adventures in the summer. It costs a lot of money to fill the tank and keep those rigs in top shape. If you have one, why not rent it out and put that money towards your next family trip? Check out rvshare.com for ideas.
Are you a practical arts or shop teacher? Maybe you have lots of tools in you garage for all of your DIY projects? Why not rent them out to someone in need? You can do so on toolzdo.com. You’ll see you can rent out or barter lots of goods on this site.
Some of The Strangest Rental Items Online
Some people will actually rent out their dog, giving someone furry entertainment, and giving themselves a little pet vacation. Check out borrowmydog.com for information. Now this next one is pretty far out, but you can actually rent out yourself to be someone’s platonic friend. In our hyper connected world, people are still lonely and in need of someone just to hangout with. Check out rentafriend.com for more info. Have a wedding dress in your closet? Rent it out on borrowingmagnolia.com. For more strange items you can rent out or rent yourself check out this post from happi927.com.
Banned Items
It’s worth your time to check out banned items in the terms and conditions sections of each site you consider posting on. For example, Renty Thing bans surveillance equipment, contact lenses, and firearms as listed in their terms and conditions here. The list also includes artifacts, Native American arts and crafts, political memorabilia and reproductions, used cosmetics, and animals. Read those terms and conditions before posting!
Damages
Damages may be a tricky subject. Many sites encourage people involved in transactions to resolve disputes themselves for any misuse, damages or missing items, and want no part of a liability. Read through the terms and conditions and compare companies to see who provides the best coverage.
Consider Becoming Your Own Rental Business
If you use your own property, consider taxes, terms, and insurance coverage. Then do your own advertising, even at school or at the library if they allow it. Find a seasonal item, like a boat or surfboard, that might be put to use covering your finances over the summer break. You can make money year round if you pick frequently used items to create a year round supplemental income. You could even have an entire “store” of items, or rent out rooms, bathrooms, storage areas, you name it. Just make sure you do the proper research, have the right permits and legal coverage, so you won’t end up with a big headache.
Teachers, in a world where educators can use extra cash, have you looked around your house for items that you would consider renting out? What items would you personally like to try out without making a huge investment? Tell us at TeacherCents.
Melissa Heule, Freelance Writer
Image Credit: Aysezgicmeli / Shutterstock.com
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