23 Quick Ways to Turn Your Stuff Into Extra Income
Looking for ways to make extra cash doesn’t always mean getting another job. Renting out things you already own can be an easy and adaptable choice. You might have an unused room, car, or tools that can quickly become money-makers.
Most people don’t realize how much they could earn by renting these items. With more folks choosing to rent rather than buy, the need is bigger than ever. By sharing what you have, you can start making extra money without needing a lot of time.
In this article, we’ll explore the best things to rent out and how you can get started without much effort.
So, what do you have sitting around that could start making money for you today? Let’s get into some of the most popular things you can rent out and see how easy it is to turn your unused items into a steady source of income.
Rideshare Rentals (e.g., Turo, Getaround)
If you have a car you don’t use much, renting it on apps like Turo or Getaround can help you make extra money. Many need a car while traveling or when theirs is being fixed, and you can help.
These apps usually include insurance to keep you and your car safe. The more people want your car type, the more you can make. Renters look for all kinds, like fancy cars or small, efficient ones.
Using Turo to rent your car can bring in $200 to over $1,000 monthly, based on its brand and style. Fancy cars or eco-friendly models often earn more.
Keep your car clean, working well, and ready for renters when needed.
RV and Camper Rentals (e.g., Outdoorsy, RVshare)
RV and camper rentals are becoming more popular, especially with the trend of “van life” and people wanting more adventure trips. If you have an RV or camper that you do not use often, renting it out can help you earn a good amount of money.
Many families like to rent RVs for their trips, and people who enjoy the outdoors often want cheaper ways to visit national parks. Websites like Outdoorsy and RVshare help RV owners find people who want a different kind of travel.
You can earn between $500 and $3,000 each time you rent out your RV or camper on sites like RVshare. Bigger RVs with more features usually get higher rental prices, especially during busy travel times.
How much you make depends on the size and features of your RV. You could earn a few hundred to several thousand dollars for each rental.
Boat Rentals
If you’re lucky enough to have a boat, don’t leave it sitting at the dock. You can rent it out for fun activities, fishing trips, or even parties to make good money. Apps like Boatsetter help boat owners rent out their boats, linking you with people who want a fun day on the water.
Renting your boat for fun, fishing, or parties can earn you $300 to $2,000+ daily. The amount depends on your boat’s size, type, and how busy your area is.
Boats cost a lot to keep up, so renting yours can help pay for those expenses. It also lets others have fun on the water without owning a boat.
Property Short-Term Rentals (e.g., Airbnb, VRBO)
Short-term rental platforms, like Airbnb or VRBO, have made it incredibly easy to rent out your home, apartment, or even a spare room.
Travelers love the option of staying in unique, homey places over hotels like a cozy cabin, a beachfront house, or a city apartment. To make this work, keep in mind local regulations. Many cities have rules around short-term rentals.
It’s not unreasonable to earn $500 to $3,000+ for just a few days of renting out your place.
You’ll also want to prepare for the cleaning and restocking your space between guests can take some effort, but the payout can make it worthwhile.
Power Tools and Yard Equipment
Many people don’t want to buy power tools or yard equipment for one-time projects. This is where renting them out can be a great opportunity for you. If you have items like lawnmowers, power drills, or saws gathering dust in your garage, consider renting them out to neighbors or through platforms like Fat Llama.
Yard equipment like lawn mowers and leaf blowers are especially in demand during certain seasons. People are often willing to rent instead of buying expensive tools they’ll rarely use again even if it’s for home improvement or yard maintenance.
Renting out tools like lawnmowers, drills, or saws can bring in $10 to $100 per day, depending on the type and condition of the equipment. This is a great way to make use of items that would otherwise sit idle.
Home or Spare Room Long-Term Rentals
If short-term hosting isn’t your style, consider renting your space long-term. This works especially well if you have a basement apartment, a separate guest house, or a second home.
Long-term rentals provide steady monthly income without the frequent turnover that comes with short-term hosting. Plus, finding the right tenants could turn this into a nearly hands-off source of extra cash.
You can make $1,000 to $3,500+ per month, depending on your space, area, and the length of time you’re planning to rent the space out. And you may even get a more stable income if the person renting plans to sub-lease it similar to strategies in item number 1.
Make sure to familiarize yourself with tenant laws and rental agreements. It’s crucial to know the rules before diving in, so you’re protected and your tenants feel secure.
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Rent Out Your Vacation Home
Do you own a vacation home that sits empty for months? Renting it out during off-seasons or when you’re not using it could turn that property into a money-making machine. Many vacation homes near popular attractions or beaches are in high demand.
Renting your vacation home during off-seasons or when you’re not using it can generate $1,000 to $5,000+ for just a few days. Homes in desirable locations near beaches, mountains, or tourist hotspots tend to command higher rates.
By offering short-term rentals during peak travel times, you can earn significant income while also covering the costs of maintaining the property.
Photography or Video Equipment
Expensive cameras, lenses, and photo or video gear are often too costly for many new creators. If you own pro-level equipment, you can rent it to photographers, videographers, or content makers.
Sites like ShareGrid let you list your gear and find people who need it for quick jobs. Make sure your items are covered by insurance and renters treat them with care.
Top cameras, lenses, and lights can earn $50 to $500 daily when rented. Sites like ShareGrid help link you with shooters and video makers who need this gear for short projects.
Setting clear rules on how your gear should be used helps keep it safe.
Garage or Storage Space
Have extra room in your garage, basement, or attic? Renting out storage space is a simple way to earn passive income. People often look for places to keep furniture, seasonal gear, or boxes they don’t want at home.
Sites like Neighbor help you list your space and find renters. It’s an easy way to make extra cash. You provide a secure place for others’ items, with little work needed.
Driveway or Parking Space
If you live in a busy area or close to a place where events happen, parking spots can be hard to find. Renting your driveway or parking space is an easy way to earn fast money, especially if you’re in an area where parking is tough.
If you’re near a busy street or a popular event location, renting your driveway can bring in $100 to $500 monthly. Apps like JustPark help you list your spot and connect with people who will pay for private parking.
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Bicycle or Electric Scooter Rentals
If you live in a city or tourist area, bicycle and scooter rentals can be an easy and profitable venture. Many tourists and city dwellers are looking for ways to get around quickly, and not everyone wants to rent a car.
If you have bikes or electric scooters sitting unused, you can offer them for short-term rentals through local services or apps. This can be a relatively low-maintenance option since bikes and scooters generally require minimal upkeep.
Platforms like Spinlister, which facilitates bike rentals, show that typical rental prices range from $10 to $35 per day. This is a low-maintenance way to generate extra income from items you already own.
Just make sure you have a good lock system and a way to track them.
Construction or Landscaping Equipment
If you have big items such as cement mixers or scaffolding, you can make more money by renting them. Builders or homeowners often need such tools, but don’t want to buy them.
You can meet this need and earn good money, mostly during busy building times. Big equipment, such as scaffolding or cement mixers, can rent for $50 to $300 daily.
Builders and DIY homeowners often need these items, and they like renting instead of buying costly tools.
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Furniture or Home Décor
Think about lending out your special furniture when you are not using it. People who sell houses or plan parties may want to use cool furniture for a short time.
To help sell homes, people often need to rent furniture to make rooms look good, and you can offer your things for this.
Lending out nice furniture for homes or parties can earn you $50 to $500 each time. Websites such as Feather or local shops can help you begin.
Party or Event Equipment
If you have party or event gear such as tables, chairs, tents, or sound systems, renting them out can be a good way to make extra money. Hosting events costs a lot, and many people like to rent big items instead of buying them. You can provide equipment for weddings, work events, or small backyard gatherings.
Renting items like tables, chairs, or sound systems for parties can bring in $100 to $1,000 or more per event. Try making bundle deals that include several items at one price to help your customers choose easily.
Musical Instruments
Got an old guitar or drum set sitting unused? You can rent your musical instruments to beginners, students, or music pros who need them for a short time.
Renting instruments like guitars, keyboards, or drum sets can earn you $20 to $100 each day. Music schools and students often look for short-term rentals, and if your gear is in good shape, it can be a smart way to make money.
Warehouse or Industrial Space
If you own larger spaces like warehouses or industrial buildings, renting them out to businesses can bring in substantial income. Small businesses often need temporary storage for inventory, equipment, or other supplies.
Renting out a warehouse or industrial space to small businesses can bring in $500 to $5,000+ per month. Businesses often need temporary storage for inventory or equipment, making this a great opportunity.
Clothing or Accessories
If you have high-end or designer clothing sitting in your closet, renting it out could be a lucrative side gig. People often rent expensive clothing or accessories for special events like weddings, parties, or photoshoots.
Platforms like Rent the Runway allow you to list your items and get them in front of people who want to borrow them for a short time. Renting out high-end clothing or designer accessories, like dresses or handbags, can earn you $30 to $150 per rental.
Even trendy handbags and shoes can bring in rental income. If you’ve got fashionable pieces that don’t get much wear, why not make money off them?
Sports Equipment
Bikes, skis, snowboards, kayaks, etc. can be pricey, and many people don’t want to invest in gear they’ll only use occasionally. If you own this type of equipment, renting it out is an excellent way to make money during peak seasons.
Items like skis, snowboards, or kayaks can earn you $20 to $150 per day, especially during peak seasons. Apps like Spinlister or ShareShed make it easy to rent out sports gear to travelers and adventure-seekers.
It’s a great way to keep your equipment in use while also earning extra cash.
Event or Party Venues
If you own outdoor space with scenic views, consider renting it out for events like weddings, parties, or corporate gatherings. Beautiful outdoor spaces are in high demand for weddings and large gatherings, and you could offer your venue as a stunning backdrop.
Renting your outdoor space as a venue for weddings or parties can bring in $500 to $5,000+ per event. By adding features like lighting, tents, or restrooms, you can charge even more for the rental and offer a complete event package.
Drones
Drones are in demand for everything from photography and video projects to surveying land. If you own a drone, renting it out can be a great side income, especially during wedding season or for real estate photography.
You can list your drone on platforms like Fat Llama or directly rent it out to professionals in your area. Drones are often rented for photography, surveying, and video production, and can fetch $50 to $300 per day.
Before renting, make sure renters are licensed to use drones and ensure that your equipment is well-maintained and protected.
Gaming Consoles and VR Equipment
High-end gaming consoles, especially virtual reality (VR) gear, are often popular for parties, events, or by people who want to try the tech before buying their own.
Renting gaming consoles or VR gear for parties or events can earn you $20 to $100 each day. Renting out your gaming consoles or VR equipment can be a surprisingly good side job, especially in places with many tech fans.
Be sure you have insurance or agreements to protect your gear in case it gets damaged.
Costumes and Props
Costumes for theater productions, Halloween, or themed parties can be rented out for a nice income boost. If you have a collection of high-quality costumes or props, you can cater to theater groups or individuals looking for unique pieces.
Similarly, if you have themed props or décor, these can be rented out for photoshoots or video productions, making them a unique rental opportunity. You can earn $30 to $200 per rental by renting out costumes for theater productions, Halloween, or themed events.
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Pools or Backyard Amenities
Do you have a pool or a hot tub? Letting others use these backyard spots can be a simple way to earn money, especially in the summer. Apps like Swimply help homeowners find people who want to rent private pool time.
You can make $20 to $100 or more per hour by renting out your pool or hot tub. Charging by the hour makes it an easy and fast way to get extra cash.
Key Considerations for Renting Out Your Items
When renting out your belongings, it’s important to consider a few essential factors to protect yourself and your items. Proper planning will ensure a smooth and profitable experience, while minimizing risks.
Let’s take a look at what you should keep in mind before diving into the rental world.
Insurance and Liability
Before renting out anything, make sure you have the right insurance. Depending on what you’re renting out, you may need additional coverage for potential damage or liability.
Many rental platforms offer built-in insurance, but double-check to ensure you’re fully covered.
Maintenance and Wear and Tear
Renting out your items will inevitably lead to some wear and tear. Make sure you’re prepared to maintain or repair your things regularly. Set aside part of your rental earnings for upkeep, so you don’t run into any surprise costs later.
Taxes on Rental Income
Finally, keep in mind that rental income is still taxable income. Make sure you keep track of your earnings, expenses, and any paperwork needed for tax purposes. You may also want to consult with a tax professional to ensure you’re following all the necessary guidelines.
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Maximize Your Earnings by Renting Out What You Own
Renting out things you already have is an easy and smart way to increase your income. Your house, car, or even personal items can give you many chances to change unused stuff into steady cash.
By looking at your choices and being careful, you can quickly begin making extra money. So, why keep your things unused when they can earn money for you?
Start now and make your unused items a money-making project. The extra cash might help you reach your money goals sooner than you thought!
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AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.
