7 unusual ways to get an income from your home

With all the cleaning, gardening and home improvements, we spend a lot of time working on our homes. But, have you ever thought of making your home work for you?

clapper board on a film set

If you need some extra income, or simply a change in lifestyle, why not give some of these ideas a go.

1. Become a pet sitter

A lot of people prefer to leave their fur babies with a loving family rather than a pet hotel when they leave town, so why not welcome a new friend into your home and make some extra cash at the same time. Pet sitters can work around a timetable that suits them and set their own rate, so have a look at the numerous websites where you can offer your services.

2. Rent your car park

If you live in an area where parking is scarce, then that spare spot at your place could mean dollars in your pocket. Have a look at Parkhound or Find a carpark and see what your parking space could be worth.

3. Have a pool party

If you’ve got a pool then why not rent it out for the day and share the joy with others. Have a look at Swimply. The site only started in Australia a few years ago and already there are amazing pools listed all across the country. 

No pool, but you do have a tennis court, spa, amazing backyard or boat? Then keep your eye on Joyspace which hasn’t launched yet but is currently wait listing amazing spaces.

4. Make your space available

If you’ve got an unused storage unit, secure shed or even a spare bedroom why not have a look at renting it out. You never know, a neighbour might be selling their house and need somewhere to store their excess furniture—your place could be ideal for them. Companies like Spacer let you list your storage space for free and you decide the rules, so why not give it a go.

5. Turn your home into a set

If you’re lucky enough to live in a home that’s truly beautiful, edgy or a bit out of the ordinary, it could be ideal as a set. Location scouts are on the look-out for the right spot for their magazine, tv or film shoot and your place could be just what their looking for.  Have a look at Pure Locations or A Perfect Space and see if your home meets the criteria.

6. Produce your own energy

Have you thought of installing solar panels? Not only can this cut your electricity bill, but you can sometimes make money through funnelling your unused solar power back into the grid, in exchange for credit on your energy account. It’s a great way to be more green and add a few more dollars to your account.

7. Take in a lodger

We couldn’t end without mentioning the potential to make money from a lodger. This could take many forms such as welcoming in a flatmate, becoming an Airbnb host or perhaps house swapping when you go on holidays. If you’ve got enough room and the personality for this arrangement, then it could be a great way to supplement your income.

Need some help with your super?

You can get general and simple advice about your TelstraSuper account for no additional cost – it’s part of your membership. Talk to us about how to boost your super, your insurance and your investment options. Give us a call on 1300 033 166 or request a call back online

If you want more personal advice make an appointment with Telstra Super Financial Planning.  Talking to a professional about money – your income, your savings, your debt, potential for investment and creating wealth outside of super – could help you get a feel for whether you’re on the right track and how some extra income might benefit you going forward.

 
Any general advice has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before you act on any general advice, you should consider whether it is appropriate to your individual circumstances. Before making any decision, you should obtain and read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination or call us on 1300 033 166 for copies of these documents. You may wish to consult an adviser before you make any decisions relating to your financial affairs. To speak with an Adviser from TelstraSuper Financial Planning call 1300 033 166.