Residential architecture has developed immensely over the years, with unique features helping homes stand out among the rest. Depending on your lifestyle and individual living habits, some features are more important than others. Walkout basements have grown in popularity due to their dual functionality of extra storage and space, offering renters a separate living space to use for whatever their heart desires.
When considering a rental property with this amenity, it’s important to understand what all it entails; how a walkout basement can enrich your life and some potential drawbacks associated with basement living.
What is a walkout basement?
Source: Housing Design Matters
A walkout basement is defined as a lower level of a home with a ground-level exit to the outdoor space. A walkout basement is unique in the sense that it features windows and doors along its wall, whereas other basement types aren’t nearly as open. Walkout basements are traditionally found on homes built on a slope or hill, due to the natural development of levels.
Understanding types of basements: What makes a walkout basement different?
Basements are typically defined in four categories; crawl space, cellar, daylight basement and walkout basement. As you move down the list, the amount of light and liveability in the basement increases, meaning a crawlspace has little to no light and liveable space and the walkout basement has the most.
Crawl spaces small underground spaces with exposed HVAC equipment or sewage piping, typically not used for anything but storage. Cellars are similar, with less functional use for the home itself and a little more liveable space. Cellars are mostly used for storage or small, single entertaining spaces. Both lack natural light and heating capabilities, making them more practical and useful spaces as opposed to being extra living-enhancing spaces.
Moving more into the light, daylight basements are not fully underground meaning more natural light and more liveable space. These basements are becoming more and more popular as the amount of usable space feels like an extra floor. Walkout basements have one major distinction from a daylight basement, an exit or an entrance from the home. Walkout basement house plans are only made with the ability to build arises due to the home location. Both of these basements provide great additional living space, making them a unique amenity and feature to consider when looking for your next home or making house plans.
Positives of a walkout basement
A finished basement, like a walkout basement, can considerably enhance your living space. Learn more about the possibilities of basement living.
Natural light and ventilation
Natural light and ventilation are huge benefits of a walkout basement. This creates a bright and open space that is versatile and open to multiple uses. With such light and openness, you can maximize your outdoor space as this basement serves as a continuation outside to your backyard.
Versatile living space
The options for a furnished basement are truly endless. Aside from storage potential, a furnished basement can serve as a versatile guest suite, complete with a bedroom, bathroom and sitting area, providing a comfortable retreat for visitors. For those who enjoy working from home, the basement can be converted into a spacious home office or a creative studio. The ability to create a space that caters to specific needs is a massive plus.
Outdoor access
For pet lovers, families and outdoor enthusiasts, the walkout basement just serves as an extension of your outdoor area. The basement offers a convenient entry point for pets to roam freely, families to enjoy outdoor activities and enthusiasts to take advantage of the simple transition from indoor comfort to the open air, whenever they please.
Drawbacks of a walkout basement
With so many opportunities, it’s difficult to see any downsides to a walkout basement. There are a few potential downsides depending on your personal preferences and living situation.
Less privacy
Due to the connection of the outdoor space to the basement, there’s a potential for decreased privacy. While this can easily be fixed for homeowners, renters won’t have the same luxury of making permanent changes that would offer more privacy like a fenced-in yard.
Increased security concerns
Another entrance and exit to the home can pose a security risk. It’s important to remember to lock walkout basement doors and windows like you would on the first floor. Renters can go as far as to install renter-friendly security systems when necessary as well.
Maintenance challenges
For those who enjoy low-maintenance living, walkout basements require some level of outdoor area upkeep. Since the outdoor area is exposed from the basement, this creates another place to decorate, clean and maintain. This could dually serve as a perk for entertainment lovers and landscape enthusiasts, though.
Unlocking the appeal of low-level living
Source: Sebring Design Build
A walkout basement is a luxury amenity, that pays for itself. The beautiful natural light and the endless room opportunities that come with a walkout basement have the ability to not only enhance your social life but your overall living experience.
The harmonious blend of indoor comfort and outdoor allure could be just the feature you need in your next home. Search our available apartments to find your walkout basement spot.
Featured Image Source: Maryland Egress Specialists
There are many changes you can make to reduce the environmental impact your home and your daily life has on the planet. Even simple adjustments like using green cleaning products, finding ways to reuse your kitchen scraps, or locking your windows shut, can lead to less waste and energy savings. Whether you just bought a house in Miami, Los Angeles, or anywhere in between, here are some great ways to save energy, reduce your carbon footprint, and save money all from the comfort of your own home.
Reconsider your grocery shopping habits
To reduce waste and save energy at home, adopt eco-friendly grocery shopping habits.
“Subscribing to a milk delivery service with reusable glass bottles, reusing bags at a bulk grocery store, and selecting glass or metal packaging can make a tremendous difference in reducing our consumption of plastics,” says Lyons, CO-based BrightHeart Decor.
These simple adjustments in your grocery shopping routine can make a significant difference in promoting sustainability at home.
Save energy with LED lighting
In addition to upgrading the look of your home’s interior, changing up the lighting can make your home more efficient. LED bulbs are much more energy-efficient than other alternatives, and incorporating them throughout your home is an easy way to conserve energy.
“The easiest DIY way to save energy is to install LED lighting and click the thermostat one to two degrees up or down,” according to Edge Energy “Another way to conserve energy is to get an energy audit and do basic installations of any cost-effective retrofits.”
Reduce your household’s consumption of water
A common area of waste in many households is water usage. The average US household consumes over 300 gallons of water per day, and much of this is unnecessary. If you’re looking for ways to save water, simply being mindful of when the water is running unnecessarily can go a long way.
“Try cutting down on your daily water usage at home by saving six liters of water a minute by turning off your tap while you brush your teeth,” suggests Bamboodu, an online store that specializes in eco-friendly products. “Use natural biodegradable cleaning products that don’t contain chemicals, and install taps and showers with automatic shut-off.”
Use smart home technology to save energy and avoid expensive repairs
We all know that technology has made our lives easier, but it can also save money by reducing energy waste. Sensors on home appliances can not only prevent food and energy waste, but also alert homeowners to potential issues that could prove costly if missed.
“Smart homes enable homeowners to save energy and money by automatically regulating lights and thermostats using geofencing and motion sensor technology,” says Agile Home Automation. “Leak detectors can notify homeowners of problems before they become costly repair situations. Freezer and refrigerator sensors can notify homeowners if a door is not closed properly, or if the unit is beginning to fail before the food is ruined.”
“Using automation for lighting, temperature control, and window coverings is the most cost-effective way to reduce waste, and manage and save energy use in your home,” adds Brad Smith, president of Audio Video Design. “Today’s products sync with circadian rhythms and the astronomical clock for personal and precise customization.”
Be friendly to the environment (and your pocket) by going solar
With recent improvements in solar technology, saving money on electricity with solar panels is easier than it’s ever been. Take advantage of clean energy and save yourself some money in the process.
“Homeowners can install solar on their roof or property and pay no more than they were paying for electricity before, and hedge against rising electric costs while making the planet a cleaner place to live,” says Madison, NJ -based Green House Solar. “Not only will solar save energy, but it will also increase the resale value of your home.”
“Homeowners can save energy and get a greater return on investment by pairing their solar system with a smart home system,” adds Freedom Forever, a Temecula, CA-based company that combines solar and smart technology. “These systems enable homeowners to schedule when appliances consume electricity, allowing you to use more of your solar power and send less to the grid.
Find ways to save and reuse your produce
A great way to prevent food waste is by getting the most out of your produce scraps. Get more out of your veggies by using the scraps for a homemade vegetable broth.
“To make the most of your produce, save your vegetable scraps,” says blogger Nutti Nelli. “Once you fill up a half-gallon of scraps, bring five cups of water to a boil and add your veggie scraps, one teaspoon of salt, and one teaspoon of black pepper, and simmer for one hour. Drain the scraps, and now you have four cups of vegetable broth to use for cooking, soups, curries, or stews.”
Think twice about the cleaning products you’re using
When it comes to eco-friendly cleaning products, the first thing that probably comes to mind is biodegradable products. While these are great, you can go a step further by eliminating plastic packaging entirely.
“Save space and eliminate plastic from your cleaning routine when you use USDA certified biobased products,” says Beyond Clean Products, a company that specializes in eco-friendly cleaning products. “Consider incorporating detergent sheets and auto dish tabs that are 100 percent plastic-free.”
Keep windows locked to avoid any air leaks
Whether you’re running the AC during the summer or heating your home in the chilly winter months, the last thing you want is to run up your bill because of air leaks. Locking your windows not only secures your home, but also the air inside it.
“Keep your windows locked to save energy in your home, says Home Energy Saving Solutions. “The lock is not only for security, but it also keeps the window close-packed and creates a seal along the weather-stripping of the window. An unlocked window is an open window.”
Recycle your leftover household paint
If you’ve got leftover paint lying around after a recent home project, you may be wondering how exactly you’re supposed to get rid of it. Product Care Recycling cautions against simply throwing old paint in the trash.
“A fresh coat of paint can give your home new life,” they say. “However, leftover paint, like other hazardous household products, does not belong in the trash. It should be recycled to avoid contaminating our soil and water sources and to divert landfill waste.”
Enrich your soil and decrease landfill waste
Whether you already have a home garden or just want to help the environment, composting is a great way to get the most out of your food waste. The planet will appreciate it and so will your plants.
“Composting is one of the most impactful actions you can take to both reduce household waste heading to landfills and create an ultra-nourishing natural resource that your garden will love,” says Sustainable Jungle, a website that shares sustainability tips and tricks. “Some cities even offer discounts on composters to help encourage this community supporting activity.”
Use dimmable indoor lighting
Home lighting is another area where energy waste can take place. Since most light bulbs operate at full capacity when turned on, you may end up using more energy than you need to keep your home lit, especially during the day. Dimmable lights give your home a more natural glow, saving energy in the process.
“One of the most effective ways to reduce your electricity bill is to install a lighting control system or smart lighting,” says TSP Smart Spaces. “We’re all used to running our lights at 100 percent, but the reality is that not only do we not need to use 100 percent of the energy of a bulb all the time. Dimmable LEDs create a much more enjoyable living experience, and natural lighting that costs 20 to 50 percent less to run compared to regular switches.”
Looking to find the best places to sell video games? Whether you have a brand new video game or a used video game, you can probably sell it online or at a place near you. In fact, I have bought many used video games from sellers over the years, so I know firsthand that people…
Looking to find the best places to sell video games?
Whether you have a brand new video game or a used video game, you can probably sell it online or at a place near you.
In fact, I have bought many used video games from sellers over the years, so I know firsthand that people do buy games – both new and old! And, I have done this both online and at places I shopped at in person.
It’s normal for gamers to have lots of video games. When new game systems come out and our interests change, selling the games we don’t play anymore can be a great way to make some extra money, after all.
Key Takeaways
Selling video games can make you extra money and lets other people enjoy the games you don’t play anymore.
How much a game is worth depends a lot on its market value, condition, and how much people want it.
You can sell video games online at places like Decluttr and eBay.
You can sell video games in person at places like GameStop and Craigslist.
Best Places To Sell Video Games Online
Below are the best places to sell video games online.
1. Decluttr
Decluttr is a popular site for selling used items, including video games on PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo.
To sell a game, you will enter or scan the barcode using Decluttr’s site, which will give you an instant quote if your item is accepted. With a free shipping label through UPS, Decluttr makes it easy to sell games for cash, and you get paid by direct deposit or PayPal.
Whether you are looking to sell just one used video game or if you have a bulk amount, this is an easy site to sell on, especially with their free prepaid shipping label.
If you have other items to sell too (such as DVDs, game consoles, CDs, etc.), this is one of the best websites if you want to sell your stuff.
2. eBay
eBay is a popular online marketplace where you can sell new or used video games. You can either auction your games or set a fixed price. You will have to do all the work, such as taking pictures of what you are selling, writing a description, and mailing it off.
Keep in mind that eBay charges fees and there are shipping costs too.
I have sold on eBay many times in the past, and it is great if you want to make the most money. This is because you are cutting out any middle person and doing all the work yourself.
I have also bought several used retro video games and gaming consoles on eBay. The platform makes it extremely easy to find anything and everything from around the world. Whether you are looking at popular games like Super Mario Bros or retro games on Atari or Sega – there is probably a fit for you to list your video games on eBay.
3. Amazon Trade-In
Amazon Trade-In is a convenient place for trading in your video games for Amazon gift cards with their instant trade-ins.
Plus, everyone has heard of Amazon so you know it is a real site.
Simply search for the title, select the correct game, and give an honest review of the game’s condition. Shipping is free with a printable label from Amazon, which makes it easy to trade in multiple games at once if you have a bulk amount that you want to sell.
4. OfferUp
OfferUp is a site where you can sell video games to people nearby. It’s easy to use, and you can list your games to reach more people in your area.
I did a quick search and found hundreds of used video games for sale in my town, so there is definitely a wide selection. OfferUp does charge a fee of around 10% to 15% for an item once it sells. This is something that you will want to think about when selling your video games as this seller fee can add up quickly.
5. Swappa
Swappa is a safe and easy website for selling used items like video games. You simply create a free listing on Swappa and pay a fee of 3% after it sells.
Payment is done through PayPal and shipping costs are paid by the seller.
On Swappa, you can sell Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox, 3DS, Wii, Nintendo NES, Nintendo SNES, and more – from gaming consoles to video games and even controllers.
6. Gameflip
Gameflip is a marketplace for selling gaming items, including video games and even in-game items (this is what sets it apart from the other sites on this list).
The in-game items feature is something that I find really interesting. Yes, these are digital items that you don’t even have physically. Instead, these would be items that you have in the actual video game.
For example, you can sell a sword or outfit that you have in a game to another player. These are items that you may win or find while you are playing a video game – and you can actually sell these digital items to other people and make money!
You can also sell both physical and digital games, set your own prices, and talk with possible buyers on Gameflip – making it easy to sell your video games and other items.
Best Places To Sell Video Games Near You
Below are the best places to sell video games near you.
7. GameStop
If you’re a video gamer, then you’ve definitely heard of GameStop.
At GameStop, you can trade in or sell your games, gaming consoles, and accessories. Their website and app give you up-to-date values for your items so you know what to expect, which I think is very nice.
For example, I went to the GameStop trade-in site and stated that I wanted to sell my Pokemon Silver Version for the Game Boy. This is an old game that is pretty much a classic. And GameStop says that I can get up to $15.40 for it in store credit or up to $10.78 in cash for it. With less than 10 clicks I was able to see how much I can get for each video game, which is so easy!
You can simply go to your local GameStop store and make the sale in person. This option is great for those who prefer dealing with a well-established retailer and want to sell video games for cash.
8. Best Buy
Best Buy is a store where you can trade in your games in-store for a Best Buy gift card.
This might be perfect if you plan on purchasing other electronics from them.
To get a trade-in estimate, you just go to their website and input your game’s details. They will handle the rest, which makes the whole trade-in process really quick and easy.
9. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is great for those who want to sell their games within their local area without fees.
It does mean direct interaction with potential buyers, but you can negotiate the price as you need to. You just post your game with a brief description and wait for interested buyers to message you on Facebook.
10. Craigslist
Similar to Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist is a popular option for selling items locally. There are no listing fees for using Craigslist.
You just create a listing and include pictures and a price. This option is great for people who don’t mind handling the transaction themselves and want to make extra cash.
I have sold many things on Craigslist over the years, and it is a very easy site to use. There are not very many used video games sold on this site, but I do love how they don’t charge any fees, so you get to keep more of your money. However, you usually are not able to make as much because your pool of buyers is smaller.
11. Game X Change
Game X Change focuses on trading and selling games, consoles, board games, figurines, and so much more. Pretty much anything related to games can be sold through this site.
On their website, it’s easy to check how much your game is worth and what you can get in return.
Plus, they pay in cash or credit.
12. Pawn shops
Pawn shops can be an option for selling your used games, especially if they’re in good condition.
Pawn stores might not give you the most amount of money compared to other places (this is because they don’t specialize in games), but it’s an alternative if you need quick cash and don’t want any hassle as you won’t need to make a listing, process payments, deduct seller fees, prepare a shipment, or anything like that.
How Much Used Video Games Are Worth
When figuring out how much your used video games are worth, think about a few things that can affect their value.
Popular game titles
How popular a game is can really impact how much you can sell it for. If a game is a classic or really popular, it’s usually worth more than games that aren’t well-known.
Condition and rarity
The condition of the game is important in deciding how much it’s worth. Games with their original cases and manuals usually sell for more money. Also, if a game is rare or a limited edition, it might be worth more.
Time of year
The time of year can also change how much used video games are worth. When new games in a series come out, older ones might be more wanted. Also, during the holiday season, more people want video games to give as gifts, so their prices might go up.
Preparing your video games for sale
Before selling your video games, here are a few things you can do to make them worth more money:
Clean and inspect – Gently clean the game and inspect it for any visible damage.
Test – Play the game to make sure it works (no one wants to buy a broken game).
Gather everything – Find case inserts, manuals, or other materials that came with the game.
Frequently Asked Questions About How To Sell Video Games
Below are answers to common questions about how to sell video games.
Where can I sell retro video games?
You can sell retro video games on specialized platforms like eBay, Decluttr, and The Old School Game Vault as these websites cater to collectors and enthusiasts.
What is the best platform to sell PC games online?
Many of the sites above can be used to sell PC games online as well. Some good ones to start with include eBay and Decluttr.
Can I trade in games for cash at GameStop? Can I sell a video game at GameStop?
Yes, you can trade in games, consoles, and accessories at GameStop for cash or in-store credit.
How does Amazon’s Trade-In program work for video games?
Amazon’s Trade-In program lets you trade in your used video games for Amazon gift cards. To trade in your old video games, you just need to find your game on Amazon, click on the Trade-In button, and describe the condition of your item. Then, print a prepaid shipping label, pack your game, and send it to Amazon. Once your game is accepted, you’ll receive an Amazon gift card equal to the trade-in value. Note that the trade-in values on Amazon are often comparable to GameStop.
How To Sell Video Games – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to sell video games online and near you.
In conclusion, the best place to sell your video games depends on what you like and where you are. It’s a good idea to check different options to make sure you get the most value for your gaming stuff.
Selling video games gives us extra money for new gaming stuff, and it lets others have fun with the games we enjoyed.
I have bought and sold many different video games over the years, so I know that it is a real way to make extra money!
When selling old video games, think about things like how much people are willing to pay, the game’s condition, and how much others want that game or console. Doing some research can help you make more money while getting rid of your used games easily. There are many online places and local stores where you can sell your video games, so I’m sure you can find the best one for you.
What do you think is the best place to sell video games?
Moving is part of most people’s lives. Maybe you’re heading to grad school a couple of towns away. Or perhaps you have a job offer hundreds of miles away that you’re excited to accept.
Whatever the reason, the logistics of getting your stuff from the old place to the new one will need wrangling. Here, you’ll learn more about your options for moving, how much it may cost (from a couple of hundred dollars to thousands), and how to afford the expense.
DIY Moving Costs
Yes, you could move yourself. This could be a smart move for a small, local move, and it can help keep costs within your budget.
Exactly how much this might cost will be based on several factors:
• Cost of transportation (can you borrow a friend’s van or do you need to rent one)?
• Cost of the packing materials you use (recycled boxes and old newspapers vs. the pros’ higher-end and job-specific supplies
• How much stuff you’re moving (and if you need to figure out insurance for any pricey items)
• How far you’re going
• Whether you need to store some things temporarily.
As you might guess, packing up the contents of a dorm room and moving it half a mile away to the apartment you’re renting with friends will cost one amount. Supplies might cost, say, $65.
Loading up the contents of the sweet bungalow you’ve been living in for a couple of years and depositing your worldly possessions at a new place 1,000 miles away will be a much more involved and expensive undertaking. Packing materials alone could be a few or several hundred dollars, and renting a moving truck could be anywhere from $20 to $100 per day, depending on your local cost of living. Also, you will likely have to pay to stay somewhere overnight and also spend at least a couple of hundred dollars on gas, dollies, and insurance. 💡 Quick Tip: Some personal loan lenders can release your funds as quickly as the same day your loan is approved.
Full Service Moving Costs
If you decide a full-service move best meets your needs, you’re probably going to want to gather some estimates, so you can nail down the details and be ready when it’s time to go. Some pointers as you do so:
• Also, do check ratings and references carefully. There are plenty of instances of fraud and scams in this realm, and it’s wise to protect yourself.
• Booking your truck four to eight weeks in advance is typically a good rule of thumb — maybe even further out if you’re moving in the busy summer months.
• Professional moving companies can give you an estimate based largely on how many rooms of furniture you have. Most have websites, so you can often get a quick estimate online. A typical local (or fairly local, not long-haul) move for a three-bedroom home is about $2,100.
The average moving costs if you relocate cross-country can easily be twice that, or $4,300 for a distance of about 1,225 miles. Keep in mind, specifics will vary. Oversized or extremely heavy items might cost you extra — as could lots of stairs, or things that need to be taken apart and put back together.
Recommended: Average Personal Loan Rates
Extra Moving Costs to Think About
Then there are the extras that go along with getting out of one place and into another.
• Transportation: If you’re taking your car across the country, you’ll probably want to get a tune-up before you go. And then there’s gas, hotel stays, and eating on the road. Having a car transported instead of driving it yourself could cost anywhere from $700 to $2,000.
If you’re in a hurry and decide to fly, that’s another expense. And if you’re taking a pet, you may have to add a little bit more to your overall bill, depending on the mode of transportation you choose for your furry friend.
• Getting into your new home: Don’t forget about deposits you might have to make at your new location. That could be anything from first and last month’s rent and a pet deposit at a new apartment, to utility deposits at a new house.
• Home repairs and cleaning: Be ready to pay for some home repairs on both ends of your move. You may have to make some quick fixes to get out of your rental without losing the deposit or maybe even major repairs if you’re selling a home. When you get to your new location, you could find some unexpected problems. Or you may just want to hire someone to come in and clean so you can cross that off your ever-growing moving to-do list.
• Starting out fresh: You’ll probably need to buy some things at your new home (like curtains, curtain rods, hangers, bedding, etc.) that are easily overlooked. Then there’s that fridge to fill. All those little costs can add up.
• Cash for tips: You will likely need to withdraw money from an ATM to thank people for their help when you move. Tips for the movers. Tips for the handyman or housekeeper who helps you get things in shape. Tips at your hotel. Tips for waitstaff at the restaurants you’ll be eating at until you get your new place up and running—or at the very least, tips for the pizza delivery guy.
Recommended: Typical Personal Loan Requirements Needed for Approval
Financing Your Move
If you have enough room on multiple credit cards, you could go that route, but should you? Interest rates can be considerable.
Or would a personal loan make more sense for you to cover all those costs, big and small?
Remember, even if you’ll be reimbursed by your employer or plan to take some moving deductions when you file your tax return, it’s very likely you’ll be paying at least some moving costs up front. And the longer those expenses sit on a credit card, the more interest racks up.
The Takeaway
Even if you have a small amount of stuff and aren’t moving very far, moving takes time, energy, organization, and money. With the average professional move costing a couple of thousand dollars, you may want to plan carefully for this expense. It’s likely not a good reason to dip into your emergency fund, so you may want to save in advance or consider a personal loan. If you qualify for a personal loan, your interest rate may be lower than a credit card, which can free up some cash and reduce your money stress.
Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.
SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2023 winner for Best Online Personal Loan overall.
SoFi Loan Products SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .
Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.
Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.
A shift in demographics. Affordable apartments transformed into luxury condos. A coffee shop called something like “Brew Slut.”
The signs of gentrification take many forms. A newly opened art gallery can serve both as a communal space and a harbinger of the displacement to come. Remodeled homes might boost a street’s curb appeal but then drive up rents in the ensuing months and years.
There are plenty of ways to tell when gentrification is coming to a community; rising home prices and an influx of trendy shops are classic omens. But in the modern market, developers are flipping houses at the highest rate since 2000, and the houses they churn out are often homogeneous: boxy, black and white, minimalist. They’re adorned with trendy house number fonts and chic drought-tolerant gardens, and they can be an obvious sign of gentrification on the way.
Advertisement
Take a stroll through your neighborhood and keep an eye out for these trends. If you spot a few, gentrification may be on the way. If you spot a bunch, it might be well underway.
The gentrification font
If Neutraface starts speckling the homes and fences around your neighborhood, your rent might soar soon.
The sleek typeface and its many knock-offs have become so commonplace that they’ve become a meme, and the Guardian even declared it “the gentrification font.” It crowns countless brand-new builds across L.A., and like certain wines and cheeses, it pairs well with cheaply done fixer-uppers or the aforementioned box houses.
“The Shake Shack font has invaded,” said Steven Sanders, a Highland Park resident who has lived in the rapidly changing neighborhood since 2015. When Sanders moved there, the median single-family home value was around $463,000, according to Zillow. Today, it’s $1.002 million.
There’s nothing specifically wrong with the font; it’s clean, modern and easy to read. Ironically, it’s named after Richard Neutra, an iconic architect who often stressed affordability in his work.
Advertisement
If a for-sale house has a Neutraface house number, the listing price will probably be anything but affordable.
Gentrification bonus point: if the font is also brass or gold.
Black-and-white paint jobs
Gentrification, in terms of housing, has become a monochromatic movement. Gone are the green-colored Craftsmans or the pink-hued bungalows of old; today, newly built homes are overwhelmingly white, black or a brutal combination of the two.
“Taste aside, a black house in an era of climate change is ridiculous,” said Adam Greenfield, a transportation and land-use advocate.
Gentrification bonus point: if a black-and-white exterior comes with an accent door — a splash of bright blue, yellow or turquoise to showcase that the property isn’t completely devoid of character. Just mostly devoid of character.
Excess security cameras
If you’re taking a stroll down your street and feel watched — not by anyone specific, but by a small army of Ring doorbells, Nest cameras and other electronic eyes making sure you don’t pick a Meyer lemon or your dog doesn’t defecate on the decomposed granite — brace for a new brand of neighbor.
Surveillance systems and the context behind them, in which owners view their neighbors and passersby as potential package-stealers, are all too common in gentrifying communities. For if it were truly a high-crime place, there would still be chain link and barred windows.
There’s plenty of evidence that smart doorbells lead to racial profiling, and while there’s nothing inherently wrong with security systems, they generally detract from the community feel instead of adding to it.
“It’s the degradation of the social fabric that for so long we all took for granted,” Greenfield said. “It’s legitimate to walk up to a neighbor’s door to ask for or offer something, and security cameras and warning systems discourage that. We can’t let fear win in our society.”
Gentrification bonus point: if they come with a speaker with a disembodied voice that barks at passersby in a condescending tone: “Hi! You are currently being recorded.”
Privacy fences
Sometimes, surveillance systems aren’t enough. Many modern homeowners moving into new neighborhoods don’t even want to be seen by neighbors, so they install privacy fences or towering hedges to shield themselves from anyone walking by.
Greenfield calls them “f— you fences.”
“Many people were raised in the suburban sprawl, where they don’t have as much access to other people. Then they move to denser areas and import those suburban norms of separation and privacy,” Greenfield said.
Lola Rodriguez, a Lincoln Heights resident who grew up in the area, said if a home in the neighborhood is ever hidden from view, it’s usually someone who just moved in.
Gentrification bonus point: if the privacy fence is chic and stylish, like the horizontal trend that has taken over in some areas.
Box houses
One of the more uninspired architectural trends of the last century, modern box houses forgo attempts at character or ornamentation, instead serving as shrines to simplicity. They worship at the altar of minimalism, squeezing out as much square footage as zoning laws will allow.
They’re clean, they’re simple, and they’re a likely sign that a new demographic is moving into a neighborhood.
“It’s jarring seeing a bright white box house jammed between older houses with more character,” Rodriguez said. She prefers the neighborhood’s stock of century-old bungalows over the new homes being built.
The polarizing style isn’t for everyone, but it’s a hit for deep-pocketed buyers eyeing extra space. And box houses are quicker and cheaper to build for profit-minded developers, who will keep cranking out supply as long as there’s demand.
Gentrification bonus point: if the box house includes a glass garage door.
Drought-tolerant gardens
To be clear, the ecological benefits of drought-tolerant landscaping make it a net positive for Southern California. Limited water usage is absolutely a good thing.
But such gardens aren’t always cheap, and if they start popping up in neighborhoods where most residents can’t afford to spend thousands of dollars, sometimes tens of thousands, on their yard, it could be a sign of gentrification.
Most carry the same look: a handful of shrubs, succulents and cacti surrounded by gravel or decomposed granite, giving it a sandy, desert-like quality.
Kerry Kimble and Steven Galindo, two real estate agents with the Agency, said they’ve noticed an increase in drought-tolerant gardens in neighborhoods such as Echo Park, Highland Park and Silver Lake, where displacement has already been happening for years.
The majority of Kimble’s listings are in northeast L.A., and she said she’s noticed a surplus of succulents.
Galindo said some developers add drought-tolerant gardens to attract potential buyers.
“Developers remodel homes for the taste of the gentrifier,” he said.
The pair are currently listing a 106-year-old duplex in Angelino Heights, a neighborhood protected by a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone, which preserves a community’s architectural feel by limiting new building designs and renovations. But not every neighborhood enjoys such protection.
Gentrification bonus point: if the garden is riddled with Firestick plants — the trendy, orange-tipped succulents that seem to anchor every lawn in those “up-and-coming” neighborhoods.
Little Free Libraries
Listen, these are lovely. Unlike surveillance systems and privacy fences, little libraries actually evoke a sense of community, bringing neighbors together over a shared love of literature (even though most generally seem to be stocked exclusively with James Patterson novels and unreadable how-to books).
The charming, birdhouse-like structures certainly don’t cause gentrification, despite what a handful of critics have claimed over the years. But they definitely seem to be a product of gentrification, usually popping up in areas where home prices are rising and well-to-do residents are moving in.
Gentrification bonus point: if a smart doorbell camera watches over the library, making sure nobody takes more than their fair share of books.
Pointed listing language
Sometimes, the clearest sign of gentrification is hearing how people are talking about a neighborhood and the homes within it. There’s a wealth of such examples posted daily on Zillow, Redfin and other listing sites as real estate agents take on certain tones to market properties to potential buyers.
For example, if a listing brags about the home being some kind of port in a storm, a refuge from the area around it, a ship of gentrifiers might be sailing in. One listing in Boyle Heights is touted as an “urban oasis.” Another in South L.A. promises to add “a touch of serenity to urban living.”
Also pay attention to whether a listing is marketed as an actual place to live or simply an investment opportunity. This listing near Leimert Park asks potential buyers to “come see your future investment today.” An Elysian Heights listing touts its use as an Airbnb.
Gentrification bonus point: if the language sounds like an extra flowery wellness ad, such as this listing in East L.A.: “Imagine stepping into a world where every corner whispers tales of renewal.”
It’s hard to believe that Americans ever got by without plastic, but the credit card is less than 75 years old. There’s a good chance your grandparents could tell you about life in the days of nothing but cash or checks.
Today, about 84% of Americans have at least one credit card, which allows them to quickly and conveniently tap or swipe their way towards purchases. Unfortunately, those rectangles of plastic may make spending a little too easy: The average household has almost $8,000 in this kind of debt.
Here, you’ll learn just how the credit card came into being, as well as smart ways to manage your credit card usage more effectively.
The Origins of Credit
Here’s how the story of the first credit card goes: Businessman Frank McNamara was having dinner at a New York City restaurant in 1949 when he realized he forgot his wallet. Rather than dine and dash, he came clean and asked if he could sign for the meal and pay later.
Though some say this legendary dinner never happened, everyone agrees McNamara founded Diners Club, the world’s first multipurpose charge card, in 1950. McNamara sold Diners Club memberships to friends and acquaintances willing to pay $3 for the “sign now, pay later” privilege at participating restaurants and hotels.
Until that point, only individual stores extended credit to customers. If you couldn’t pay for, say, a dress or a new suit at the general store — and the owner knew you were good for the money — you could run up a tab and pay cash later. But the Diners Club card provided the benefit of credit at multiple locations instead of just one establishment. 💡 Quick Tip: Before choosing a personal loan, ask about the lender’s fees: origination, prepayment, late fees, etc. One question can save you many dollars.
Next Came the “Big Four” of Credit Cards
Of course, future entrepreneurs and banks wouldn’t let Diners Club monopolize the charge and credit market for long. Eventually, other cards came on the scene—most notably Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.
• Visa: In 1958, Bank of America issued the BankAmericard — the first true credit card — to customers in California. While the original Diners Club card required payment in full at the end of each month, BankAmericard users could pay off purchases over time. In 1976, BankAmericard became Visa.
• Mastercard: BankAmericard got a run for its money when a group of banks joined forces in 1966 to create the Interbank Card Association (ICA). In 1969, ICA created Master Charge: The Interbank Card, which became Mastercard in 1979.
• American Express: The American Express Company has been around since 1850, but it didn’t issue its first charge card until 1958. Like Diners Club, the American Express card had to be paid in full each month. That changed in 1987 with the introduction of the Optima card, the first true credit card by American Express. (Fun fact: Elvis Presley was one of the earliest American Express card members.)
• Discover: Discover is the newest major credit card network on the scene. Sears launched the Discover card in 1986, distinguishing it from the pack by charging no annual fees and offering higher credit limits than other cards at the time.
Discover was also the innovator of cash rewards on credit card purchases—back in 1986. At that time, Discover cardholders could earn rewards of up to 1% cash back on all purchases. Incidentally, Discover Financial Services purchased Diners Club International in 2008.
How Credit Cards Have Changed Over Time
A lot has changed since McNamara’s legendary dinner. Take a look at some of the biggest shifts in the credit industry:
The Ubiquity of Credit
In the early decades, credit was curbed by restrictive interstate banking laws. But credit’s big breakthrough came in 1978, when the Supreme Court ruled to allow nationally chartered banks to charge out-of-state customers the interest rate set in the bank’s home state.
Credit expanded as a result, and today, the average American credit card holder has nearly four cards.
The Evolution of Fees
When Diners Club began, it made money by charging stores a 7% fee on all transactions. Today, credit card companies charge interest on debt, too, so they make money when you don’t pay your bill in full. This is what’s typically known as high-interest debt. How high? At the end of 2023, the average credit card interest rate was reported as 24.59%.
Also, Diners Club used to charge nominal membership fees, but by the 1980s, many credit card companies eliminated annual fees to stay competitive.
The Advent of Rewards
The ’80s also brought tangible rewards for using credit cards instead of cash. Discover pioneered cash rewards, allowing cardholders to get a percentage back on purchases charged. And in 1987, Citibank made a deal with American Airlines to give consumers reward points to use for future flights.
Today, consumers continue to use credit card rewards programs to earn cash or points for future purchases, including travel. In fact, more than 87% of credit card users have rewards programs associated with their cards.
How to Control Your Credit
Credit can be convenient and a real asset when you want to buy something you don’t have enough cash to pay for outright. It’s a powerful tool, and one that must be managed wisely. In the summer of 2023, credit card balances in America hit a new milestone, topping a total of $1 trillion. That likely means many people are carrying a significant amount of debt. To avoid having your balances soar too high, consider these ways to take control of your credit.
Build Your Credit History Wisely
It might sound enticing to pay for everything in cash (and thus stay out of debt), but most of us don’t have the cash flow to pay for college, buy a car, and purchase a home outright. Besides, even if you do have the cash to buy everything you need right now, when the day comes to apply for a loan, you’ll need a solid credit history to qualify.
If you’ve never had a single credit card or loan, your credit history is minimal, which means you pose a higher risk to lenders. In that way it pays to borrow, as long as you do so responsibly. That means spending less than you earn and paying your bills on time, every time. Whenever possible, pay off your credit card in full every month.
Consider Prefinancing
Of course, credit cards aren’t the only way to pay for purchases and build a strong debt payment history. Prefinancing (getting access to a sum of money in advance of a purchase), such as taking out a personal loan, is another option. When you apply for a loan, you’re requesting a specific amount of money from a lender and agreeing to repay that loan over a predetermined period of time.
How credit cards work is a different process. When you pay on credit, the credit card network (e.g., Visa) pays the merchant (e.g., Home Depot) for your purchases, and you pay the network back for your purchases each month. If you don’t pay your balance in full, you’ll be charged interest on future payments.
Between the two options, prefinancing may offer the benefit of lower interest rates and shorter loan terms, helping you get out of debt quicker. After all, if you don’t have a system in place to pay off purchases in a reasonable time frame, credit card debt can haunt you for a long time.
Think about it: If you’ve racked up $15,000 in credit card debt at an interest rate of 20%, and make a payment of $300 each month, it will take you 109 months (9+ years) to pay off your debt, including $17,635.48 in interest, by the way. (You can use a credit card interest calculator to see how your own debt stacks up.)
Understand Your Credit Score
Whenever you borrow money via a personal loan or use your credit card, your lenders and creditors send details of those transactions to three major national credit bureaus (Equifax®, Experian®, and TransUnion®). That information is then used to assess your creditworthiness, which is expressed as a three-digit credit score that represents the risk you pose to lenders.
The higher your credit score, the less risky you are in their eyes. FICO® scores are the ones used most often in lending decisions in the United States, with scores typically ranging from 300 (poor) to 850 (exceptional).
Your credit score comprises five categories, and each one has an impact:
• Payment history: Late or missed payments drag down your score.
• Amounts owed: High balances can hurt you; maxing out your credit cards is even more damaging.
• Length of credit history: A long history can increase your score.
• Credit mix in use: A healthy mix of credit cards, student loans, a mortgage loan, etc., can boost your score.
• New credit: Opening several credit accounts in a short period of time can damage your score.
💡 Quick Tip: Swap high-interest debt for a lower-interest loan, and save money on your monthly payments. Find out why SoFi credit card consolidation loans are so popular.
Build Your Credit Score
If your credit score isn’t where you want it to be, there’s good news: Scores aren’t set in stone. Try these tips to build yours:
Getting out of Credit Card Debt With a Personal Loan
Sometimes the problem is bigger than a low credit score. Unfortunately, some people get so deep into debt that it’s hard to find a way out on their own. One option: A personal loan to pay off credit card debt. This kind of loan usually allows you to consolidate high-interest credit card debt into one lower-interest loan with a fixed monthly payment.
Balance-transfer credit cards are another potential avenue to get out from under debt. Keep in mind, though, that these likely charge balance transfer fees, and your interest rate will be considerable after the promotional period. On the other hand, if you shop around, you may be able to find a personal loan that doesn’t charge origination or other fees.
You might also benefit from free or low-cost financial counseling from a nonprofit organization, such as the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC).
The Takeaway
Clearly, Americans have become accustomed to and perhaps even reliant on credit cards since they were developed almost 75 years ago. When managed effectively, credit cards are valuable tools to help you pay for the things you need and to sustain the lifestyle you want.
If, however, you feel weighed down by credit card debt, start taking steps to control your credit, rather than letting it control you. Consider your options, such as balance transfer credit cards or using a personal loan, to help you pay off your balance.
Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.
With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.
SoFi Student Loan Refinance If you are a federal student loan borrower, you should consider all of your repayment opportunities including the opportunity to refinance your student loan debt at a lower APR or to extend your term to achieve a lower monthly payment. Please note that once you refinance federal student loans you will no longer be eligible for current or future flexible payment options available to federal loan borrowers, including but not limited to income-based repayment plans or extended repayment plans.
SoFi Loan Products SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .
Few things feel better than a clean home. As we head into the new year, it’s an exceptionally opportune time to clean up and begin anew, fostering a refreshed and invigorating environment for the possibilities. Studies show a clean environment lends itself to clearer thinking, which is the best mindset for closing our a year and heading into the next. One of the most deep-cleaning questions we get asked is about how to deep clean carpet.
While carpets may feel overwhelming to tackle, a deep cleaning is easier than it seems. We’ve crafted an ultimate guide on how to approach deep cleaning and the tools needed to give professional carpet cleaners a run for their money.
Materials needed
To deep clean the carpet, gather these supplies before you begin your cleaning process.
Vacuum cleaner
Stain remover (ideally one formulated for carpets) or white vinegar and water solution
Baking soda
Salt
Carpet brush or any stiff brush
Clean towels or microfiber cloth
Steam cleaner (optional)
How to deep clean carpet, the easy way
No need to hire carpet cleaners. Your fresh carpet is a few steps away and will be back to its fresh state in no time.
1. Clear your area
Before you begin with these steps, make sure to clear the carpet area you’re deep cleaning. While you can move things around during the process, it’s much easier to clear the area before you begin.
2. Vaccum thoroughly
Vacuum your carpet pre-cleaning to ensure loose dirt, dust and debris are gone. Don’t forget to pay extra attention to high-traffic areas and corners, especially if you’re deep-cleaning the entire carpet.
3. Treat stains
Once you vacuum your carpet, it’s time to target stained areas. Apply a carpet stain remover to any visible stains. If you don’t have any on hand, you can create a DIY cleaning solution by mixing equal parts water and white vinegar. Gently blot the stains with a cloth or sponge. Avoid rubbing as it spreads the stain through the carpet fibers.
4. Pre-treat the entire carpet
Once you treat individual trouble spots, you can begin the deep cleaning process. There are multiple methods to approach deep cleaning; however, we recommend utilizing baking soda and a pinch of salt for this step. Sprinkle the one-to-one mixture over the entirety of the wall-to-wall carpet. Once you’ve liberally applied the baking soda mixture, use a spray bottle with cold water to lightly spritz the carpet. The carpet needs to be slightly damp, not drenched.
If you have a steam cleaner, opt to steam clean over this mixture following the manufacturer’s instructions instead of spraying the carpet with water. The proceed to the next steps.
Then, use your stiff brush to brush the mixture deeper into the carpet. This action assists the baking soda in penetrating between the carpet fibers.’
Then, set a timer for 30 minutes to allow the baking soda to set and dislodge any deep-set debris. For an extremely dirty carpet or a carpet with a lingering odor, allow the baking soda to sit for an hour.
5. Wipe away the residue
Once your timer goes off, it’s safe to wipe away the baking soda mixture and whatever debris it has removed with a microfiber cloth or towel. It doesn’t need to be perfect and once the carpet fully dries, it’ll be easy to vacuum the leftover residue away.
6. Air dry and vacuum
Allow the carpet to fully air dry. Use fans, open doors and windows and avoid walking in the area during this time. Since the carpet is only slightly damp, the drying process shouldn’t take too long. Allow the carpet to dry overnight to prevent anyone or any furry friends from accidentally stepping on the area.
Once the carpet is fully dried, vacuum the carpet to remove any leftover baking soda mixture. You may have to go over the carpet a few times to remove all the particles. We recommend vacuuming slowly, taking your time to go over any baking soda clumps.
7. Enjoy your fresh and clean carpet
Your carpet is now fresh smelling and clean, creating a healthier and more comfortable environment for you and your family to enjoy throughout the upcoming year. Clean your carpet every 12-18 months to ensure a healthy and well-maintained living space. Anyone with allergies or looking to get rid of regular pet hair should consider deep cleaning every 6-12 months.
Start the new year on the right foot, on a clean carpet
The power a clean home holds is remarkable as small cleaning acts can truly enhance quality of life and create a welcoming atmosphere. With household tools and a little bit of time, your carpet is easily restored to its original quality creating a fresh space to kick off the new year. Embrace the ritual of cleaning in your rental home and indulge in the results.
Ready to embrace a clean start in the perfect place? Take a look at our apartments and houses for rent.
Wesley is a Charlotte-based writer with a degree in Mass Communication from the University of South Carolina. Her background includes 6 years in non-profit communication and 4 years in editorial writing. She’s passionate about traveling, volunteering, cooking and drinking her morning iced coffee. When she’s not writing, you can find her relaxing with family or exploring Charlotte with her friends.
LA-based DJ, avid snowboarder, and TV personality Tyler Marenyi — better known by his stage name, DJ NGHTMRE — is branching out.
Turns out that the Raleigh, North Carolina native, who released his album, Drmvrse last year and is currently busy touring the country as part of his The Great Sonic Wars Tour, also dabbles in real estate.
He just listed a newly built home in Culver City, California, one that comes with a main residence and not one, but two ADUs (accessory dwelling units) — which can be rented out and generate income for the future owners — as well as a lovely zen garden.
Since the property has just been completed and is listed as a new construction, it’s safe to assume it was never meant to serve as DJ NGHTMRE’s house.
Rather, it seems like Tyler Marenyi is diversifying his income streams, and investing the money he makes from headlining music festivals around the world into real estate — and making a profit in the process.
Listed for just over $3 million with Gina Michelle, Margaret Sievers, and George Ouzounian of The Agency, the property has a total of 7 bedrooms and 6 baths (totaling 3,417 sq. ft.) spread across the three structures on the lot.
The main house, a bright, light-filled single-story structure stands out with its clean lines and modern design.
With three bedrooms and two baths, it features high vaulted ceilings and custom light fixtures, creating a spacious and inviting ambiance.
The master bedroom, a serene retreat, boasts a large walk-in closet and elegant French doors that lead to a private outdoor sanctuary.
Complementing the main residence is a two-story Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), complete with three bedrooms and three bathrooms. This additional unit is not just a space for guests; it’s an epitome of sustainable living, equipped with solar panels.
Set at the back of the property, the two-story ADU is a full-fledged residence in itself, one that can house family members or that can be rented out for additional income.
Moreover, a Junior ADU adds further versatility to this unique property. You can see all the structures in the image below.
The outdoor area of this property is where the zen-like design truly comes to life.
A meticulously crafted zen garden, complete with lush greenery and a mature avocado tree, offers a slice of paradise in the heart of the city. The advanced dual-control irrigation system ensures that this garden oasis remains vibrant with minimal effort, marrying beauty with practicality.
>> Follow us on Google News for more stories like this, in real time
*Featured image credit: property photo courtesy of The Agency, NGHTMRE insert courtesy of FROZYO!, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
More stories
RHCP bassist Flea’s house is a retro-futuristic hilltop compound with a 7-sided home and Richard Neutra connections
Machine Gun Kelly’s house in Los Angeles, Bought from Youtuber Logan Paul
Where does Bad Bunny live? His house in L.A. and past whereabouts
Want to learn how to make $1,000 in 24 hours? While it’s not as easy as making $100 in a day, you do have some options. Some may allow you to make $1,000 right away, and others may mean that you have to build up to reach this level. Perhaps you’re looking for extra money…
Want to learn how to make $1,000 in 24 hours?
While it’s not as easy as making $100 in a day, you do have some options.
Some may allow you to make $1,000 right away, and others may mean that you have to build up to reach this level.
Perhaps you’re looking for extra money to pay for an unexpected bill that popped up (like a car repair or medical bill!), or maybe you’re just looking to increase your income by having a $1,000-a-day income goal.
Key Takeaways
The fastest way to make $1,000 quickly is to sell stuff from around your home, like electronics, jewelry, or nice furniture.
Freelance jobs like consulting and writing can pay a high income.
Jobs in the gig economy, like driving or delivering, can make you money right away, and you can stack them with others to increase your daily earnings.
$1,000 a day in passive income is possible through starting an e-commerce business, a blog, and selling digital products (like a course or printable).
Best Ways To Make $1,000 In 24 Hours
Here are the best ways to make $1,000 in 24 hours.
1. Sell stuff online and near you
If you want to learn how to make $1,000 by tomorrow, then the fastest option is usually to find items in your home that you already own to sell.
This is because you already have stuff in your home (the average household has over 300,000 items!!) – so you may be able to sell something to make quick cash.
So, these would either have to be a lot of items or more expensive items. For example, you could sell clothing or gift cards, something big like a piece of furniture, electronics (maybe a gaming system or computer?), or a piece of jewelry.
Here are places where you can sell your stuff:
eBay: This site is great for unique or collectible items.
Amazon: Good for books, electronics, and almost everything. Here’s a helpful article to learn more – How To Work From Home Selling On Amazon FBA
Craigslist: The site has a wide range of categories for selling in your local area.
Facebook Marketplace: Connects you with local buyers.
Pawn shops: Quick cash for things like jewelry.
Flea markets: Rent a booth for the day and sell homemade items.
Garage sales: Set up a sale in your yard.
Poshmark: Easy online marketplace to sell clothing online.
To sell your stuff for the most money, make sure you take clear pictures, write honest descriptions (is there a tear or a stain?), price items competitively, and clean your items to make them more appealing.
And, always remember to stay safe by meeting in public spaces and avoid sharing personal information. With some effort and strategic selling, you can reach your $1,000 goal.
2. Start a blog
Starting a blog is not a quick way to make money, but it can be a stepping stone to making $1,000 in a day.
Plus, it’s my favorite way to make money online. In fact, I earn over $1,000 a day with this blog. So, I know that it is possible (don’t assume that means it is easy – it is not easy, trust me!).
Here are some steps to get started with a blog:
Set up your blog:
You’ll want to start by choosing a topic to write about, such as finance, family, travel, food, etc.
Purchase a domain name (this is basically the name of your blog).
Select a hosting service and install WordPress (you can find my tutorial for this here).
Write blog posts:
Write helpful and fun blog posts.
Publish a blog post at least once a week.
Monetize your blog:
Affiliate Marketing: Include affiliate links in your posts.
Sponsored Posts: Partner with brands for sponsored content.
Ad Revenue: Sign up for Google AdSense, Mediavine, Adthrive, or another display advertising company.
Drive traffic:
Promote your content on social media.
Engage in community related to your niche.
Guest post on other blogs to find new readers.
I recommend taking my How To Start A Blog FREE Course. In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
10
Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog?
In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
3. Freelance writing
Freelance writing can be a great way to make money quickly.
I have been a freelance writer for years, and I also know of many other freelance writers who are able to earn $1,000 in a day. For a freelancer who writes high-quality articles, a $1,000 day is simply a normal day for them.
Sites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer have plenty of writing opportunities across many different industries. If you can write quality, original content quickly, it’s possible to reach your goal of $1,000 by taking on multiple writing assignments.
You could also try cold pitching, which is where you find businesses that could benefit from your writing services and send them an email about how you can help them achieve their goals with your writing.
To make $1,000 in a day as a freelance writer, you may want to focus on your existing network as well, if you have one. So, this means that you may want to reach out to former clients or colleagues who might need your writing services.
4. Real estate investing
Although real estate investing requires up-front cost and time, you may be able to build up to earning $1,000 a day.
$1,000 a day is $365,000 a year, which some real estate investors are able to earn through methods such as:
Renting out a home on Airbnb
Flipping properties for income
Investing in REITs
And more.
Recommended reading: How This 34 Year Old Owns 7 Rental Homes
5. Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing is my favorite way to earn money, and it helps me to earn $1,000+ a day here on this blog.
With affiliate marketing, you are promoting products or services on your website, email list, or social media account. If you get someone to sign up or purchase through your referral link, you then earn a commission.
Most products that you can think of have an affiliate program too, so there are plenty of things you can share.
Think about sharing books from Amazon on your blog, for example. You share a link to a specific book and tell your readers to buy it through your special link. Companies like Amazon like affiliates who bring in good traffic because it helps them make more sales.
Here’s a helpful article where you can learn more: What You Need To Know About Affiliate Marketing For Beginners + How 17 Bloggers Earned Their First Affiliate Income
6. Making money on YouTube
Creating a successful YouTube channel can lead to you making an income. While it’s unlikely to make $1,000 within 24 hours from right now, you may be able to get up to that amount by building a following on YouTube by consistently producing high-quality videos.
I know several YouTubers who are able to make $1,000 each day through their YouTube channel.
Here’s a breakdown of some different ways to make money with a YouTube channel:
Ad revenue – Once part of the YouTube Partner Program, you can earn money through ad views on your videos. You’ll need at least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the past year to join.
Channel memberships – Your fans pay a monthly fee for special perks like exclusive badges, emojis, and access to members-only content.
Super Chats and Super Stickers – During live streams, viewers can purchase Super Chats and Super Stickers to highlight their messages. This is a direct way to earn as you interact with your audience.
Affiliate marketing – Promote products within your videos and include affiliate links in the video description. You’ll earn a commission for every sale made through your links.
Sponsorships – Companies can pay you to create content that features their products, especially if your content aligns with their brand, and you have an engaged audience.
7. Drive with Uber or Lyft
Driving for a rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft can make you money, but it might be difficult to make $1,000 in one day. It can help you to reach a $1,000-in-24-hours goal, though, by stacking it with other side hustle opportunities.
Also, there are things you can do like focusing on high-demand areas and driving during peak hours to increase the amount of money that you can earn.
I know of several people who only drive for these gig apps when they know that they are able to make the most amount of money. This is because you may be able to earn hundreds of dollars extra each day or week by timing when you drive.
Here’s a strategy to boost earnings:
Drive during peak hours – Surge pricing during busy hours means higher rates.
Look for driving bonuses – Look out for streak bonuses and other incentives. Uber or Lyft will list these in the app.
Manage your car expenses – Keep track of your gas, maintenance, and other costs to maximize profits.
Peak Times
Potential Earnings Boost
Rush Hour (AM/PM)
Increased Surge Pricing
Weekend Nights In Nightlife Areas
High Demand, More Rides
Events (concerts, sports games, etc.)
Surge Pricing, Bonuses
To reach your goal, you should know about your city’s traffic and when people need services. Getting $1,000 in a day is tough, but with a good plan, hard work, and a bit of luck, it’s something you may be able to work toward.
Other gigs related to this include driving for Instacart, Doordash, Uber Eats, and other food delivery services to earn cash. They won’t earn you $1,000 in a day, but they can be another way to make money.
8. Sell printables on Etsy
Designing and selling printables on Etsy, such as planner pages or art prints, is a creative way to make passive income. While reaching your goal of $1,000 quickly might be a challenge, growing your Etsy store can lead to long-term earnings.
I know of several successful printables sellers, and it is something that I would like to start one day as well. This is an area that I think will just continue to grow. Printables are very popular these days, and more and more people use them all the time. I personally buy printables all the time, and I find them very easy to use and helpful.
Printables are digital items that you can download and print at home, such as grocery shopping checklists, budget planners, wedding invitations, wall art, and more.
I recommend signing up for the Free Workshop: How To Earn Money Selling Printables. This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
Recommended reading: How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
9. Sell your engagement ring
Selling jewelry, such as an engagement ring, can lead to you making money fast for when you need money right away.
If you really need the money and don’t mind parting with your engagement ring, then this may be an option for you to look into.
The value of your ring will depend on several factors, including the 4 Cs — cut, color, clarity, and carat weight — of the diamond, as well as the metal type and current market conditions.
One company I recommend looking into is Worthy.
Worthy sells wedding rings, loose diamonds, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and luxury watches. They take care of everything, including appraisals and getting payment from the buyer.
You send your jewelry to them using a label they give you, and it’s insured. They put your item up for auction, and professional jewelry buyers can bid on it (you can set a minimum price). After the auction, you get the sale amount minus Worthy’s fee.
It usually takes around 2 weeks for the whole process, from sending the ring to getting paid.
Pawn shops and local jewelers are faster, but they might not give you the best prices. Selling online can make more money, but it takes longer with the auction process.
Recommended reading: How To Sell An Engagement Ring For The Most Money
10. Look for Craigslist gigs that pay
If you’re aiming to make $1,000 in a short span of time, you may be able to find quick jobs on Craigslist. Most of these will be one-time jobs, but there may also be full-time or part-time jobs.
To find Craigslist gigs in your town, just go to Craigslist and look for the “gigs” section.
Here are some jobs I found through a quick search:
Help loading and unloading a moving truck
Help with painting a home
Pet sitting and dog walking
Taking online surveys
Delivery driver
Data entry
Turning photographs into digital copies
Transport and install a microwave
House cleaner
Related reading: How I Earned $655 From Random Craigslist Jobs In One Month
11. Rent out your unused storage space
If you have extra space at home, you can rent it out to people in your area for storage. This could be a garage, driveway, closet, basement, or even an attic.
While reaching $1,000 in a single day would definitely be a stretch, renting out your space could give you a long-term income that you stack with other jobs on this list to make $1,000 a day.
You can use a website called Neighbor to list any extra space you have for rent, and you could make up to $15,000 per year.
You can also learn more about Neighbor at Neighbor Review: Make Money Renting Your Storage Space.
12. Consulting
If you’re really good at something, like business or marketing, selling consulting services can make you a good amount of money. You can charge more because of your expertise, and it’s doable to reach your $1,000 goal by taking on a few well-paying consultations.
I know several consultants who are able to make a very high income, in fact.
Companies hire consultants to get outside knowledge, a fresh viewpoint, and handle specific issues better.
Here’s how to start selling consulting services:
Identify Your Expertise – What are you good at? It could be marketing, finance, management, technology, or any other area where people seek expert advice.
Set Your Rate – Determine an hourly rate that reflects the value of your consultation. As a point of reference, if you charge $250 per hour, you would need to book four hours of consulting to meet your goal.
Network – Reach out to your professional network and let them know about your consulting service. Recommendations can go a long way.
13. Ask for a raise or for more hours
Talking to your boss about a raise might not get you $1,000 in a day, but negotiating a higher salary can be a good long-term strategy to make more money each year.
When approaching your employer about a raise, preparation is key.
Demonstrate your value – Before the meeting, compile a list of your accomplishments, contributions, and any additional responsibilities you’ve taken on.
Research market rates – Know the industry standards for your position and experience level to set a realistic raise request.
Time your ask – Ideally, schedule this conversation after a significant achievement or during a performance review.
Another way to increase your income at the job you already have is by working overtime. If you are paid hourly, you can see if your employer needs you to work any extra.
14. Sell an online course
If you know a lot about something, you can make and sell an online course. Websites like Teachable and Udemy let you create, host, and sell your course. While you might not make $1,000 right away, getting students over time can bring in a good amount of money.
I have an online course that I sell, Making Sense of Affiliate Marketing. I have also taken many online courses, such as on helping my toddler get better sleep, speech therapy for parents, business courses, blogging courses, and so much more.
And, these are all created and run by people like you and me.
There are many other things you can teach in an online course, such as:
Painting
Music lessons
Fitness and exercise
Time management tips
Parenting
Languages
Computer programming
Personal finance
Traveling
Photography and photo editing
Plants and gardening
Baking and cooking
Arts and crafts
Dropshipping
And so much more!
How Can I Get A $1000 Loan Within 24 Hours?
So, after reading the above, maybe you realize that you need $1,000 quickly and the above won’t work out for you fast enough. If that’s the case, then a loan may be another option to look into.
If you need a $1000 loan in 24 hours, first look at your options. Check if you can use your own things for quick cash. If not, check out personal loans and other ways to borrow money, but be aware that quick loans like these typically have very high interest rates that can be hard to pay off.
1. Assess your credit score: Your credit score plays an important role in your interest rate and terms of a personal loan. Generally, a higher score increases your chances of getting approved for loans with lower interest rates.
2. Explore online lenders: Some online lenders offer loans within a day, so you can get a $1000 loan in 24 hours. Fill out an easy application and compare the terms and payment choices from different lenders to pick the best one for what you need.
3. Look for short-term loans: If time is really important, you may be thinking about short-term loans like payday loans or title loans. They usually get approved faster, but keep in mind, these loans almost always have high interest rates and shorter times to pay back, so please be as careful as you can. You don’t want to go into some crazy debt that you will never be able to pay off.
Frequently Asked Questions About How To Make $1,000 In 24 Hours
Below are answers to common questions about how to make $1,000 in 24 hours.
How can I make a quick $1,000?
To make $1000 quickly, you can start by thinking about selling things you don’t need. Everyone has stuff in their home that they aren’t using – start with those items!
What are the fastest ways to earn $1,000 online?
Some of the fastest ways to earn $1,000 online include:
Freelancing with your skills, such as writing, designing, or coding
Affiliate marketing through your personal blog or social media channels
Creating and selling digital products, like ebooks, graphics, or courses
This really depends on what your definition of fast is. Some of the above income streams will take longer than others, of course.
Which passive income streams can pay $1,000 quickly?
While passive income streams typically take time to build, there are some options that can make $1000 quickly, such as with:
Rental properties, if you own an empty space or have a spare room in your home that you can rent out
Dividend-paying stocks, though you’ll need a very large amount of money invested to make that kind of money in a single day
Online courses or subscription-based services
The initial setup might take time and effort, but the long-term rewards could be worth it. Learning how to make $1,000 a day in passive income is possible, but it would require a lot of up-front legwork to get you there.
Recommended reading: 18 Passive Income Ideas To Earn $1,000+ Each Month
Which freelance jobs can generate $1,000 within a day?
Earning $1000 within a day of freelancing is ambitious, but it’s possible through high-paying gigs and opportunities like:
High-ticket sales or consulting services, where you share valuable advice and expertise
Technical jobs, like IT consulting or software development, if you have in-demand skills
Creative projects with tight deadlines, such as writing marketing copy for advertisements, web design, and graphic design
Learning how to make $1000 in 24 hours online through freelancing is possible, but it will take you some time to get to this point.
How To Make $1,000 In 24 Hours – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to make $1,000 in 24 hours.
While some may earn you $1,000 in the next 24 hours (such as selling an expensive item that you already own – like jewelry or a gaming system), others may take you time to earn $1,000 in a 24-hour time period.
Some on this list may be a full-time job, and others may be part-time or even one-time odd jobs (such as on Craigslist).
Getting $1,000 in a day might seem hard, but with the right plans and effort, it is doable. Whether you have a surprise expense that you need to pay for, want to boost your savings, or simply just want to start making more money, making money at this level is possible.
Have you ever needed $1,000 fast? What have you done to make $1,000 quickly in the past?
Despite their timeless appeal, all-white kitchens are a deceptively polarizing design trope. While some people applaud .css-fwmnzn-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:0.0625rem;text-decoration-color:inherit;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:inherit;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;word-break:break-word;padding-top:0.05rem;padding-bottom:0.05rem;-webkit-background-size:0 0;background-size:0 0;background-image:linear-gradient( to bottom, rgba(55, 119, 188, 0.2), rgba(55, 119, 188, 0.2) );background-repeat:repeat-x;-webkit-background-position:0 100%;background-position:0 100%;.css-fwmnzn:hovercolor:#000000;text-decoration-color:border-link-body-hover;-webkit-background-size:.625rem 3.125rem;background-size:.625rem 3.125rem;the pared-back palette for its enduring versatility and sophistication, die-hard maximalists might find these spaces on the snoozier end of the spectrum. If you’re not sure which side of the great kitchen debate you fall on, we’re here to make a case for the neutral culinary corner.
Don’t let this one-tone wonder fool you. Whether you incorporate tactile materials, sprinkle in a little bit of art, or incorporate an occasional pop of color, all-white kitchens are packed with ample design potential. “If you want a kitchen that will last a lifetime, white is a classic color that will always be in style,” says Atlanta-based interior designer Morse Design’s Andi Morse, who sees an all-white space as a prime canvas upon which one can bring in daring accessories and bold accents.
Looking to give your kitchen a clean transformation? A sleek space can transform the smallest details of the room into a museum-worthy backdrop, be it some cool cabinetry hardware or a fresh batch of brownies. To prove it, we’ve culled the archives for the very best white kitchens to use as inspiration. From farmhouse-forward setups to modern masterpieces, these 57 kitchens prove that an all-white theme equals a creative carte blanche.