- Sign up for Task Rabbit or WeGoLook if you like being on-the-go and can handle a variety of tasks.
- Ride-sharing requirements include a safe driving history, being over 21 and a state-inspected car.
- Fiverr allows you to freelance a particular task or skill for $5, but you can upsell users.
As the days become shorter and the leaves begin to fall, it means one thing for you as a real estate agent: you’re entering the slow season.
Sometimes autumn and winter can be a time of satisfying sales, as you close on a house for a family in transition or show great new condos that are moving quickly, but spring is typically the busy time for your profession.
You’re dedicated and work hard, but you aren’t likely to be closing and earning at peak-season levels.
What can you do in the meantime to increase your earnings? Start a side hustle. There are many flexible options as you continue to run your real estate business. Some are even related to real estate. Here are five side hustles to try as your business slows down.
1. Complete errands and tasks
Consider completing errands and tasks for people who don’t have time to do them. TaskRabbit, for example, employs people to handle multiple tasks, including holding a place in line for driver’s licenses and assembling furniture. Simply sign up, and bid for jobs you’re interested in.
WeGoLook also has specialized tasks and includes inspections of vehicles and real estate. It gives you specialized knowledge for your life as a real estate agent as well.
2. Try pet sitting and walking
If you love dogs and cats, you’re cut out for the flexible life of pet sitting and pet walking. Network with friends and acquaintances, and post notices in bookstores and libraries. Most neighborhoods have pet-walking services — conduct a simple Google search, and sign up.
In addition to Fido and Mitzi’s affection, you’ll enjoy a ground’s-eye view of neighborhoods and the knowledge of which buildings are dog- and cat-friendly.
3. Engage in ride sharing
Ride sharing allows you use your car for cash. Uber and Lyft are nearly synonymous with the sharing economy. You simply sign up and use an app to book rides from passengers. You can work on your own schedule.
In Turo (formerly Relay Rides), you lend your car to people when you aren’t using it. Getaround is another service where you lend a car to other drivers. Wondering which is best for you? Check out this graphic that details the pros and cons of each service.
These services all require a state-inspected and well-maintained car. You must be over 21 and have a safe driving record.
4. Rent areas of your home
Airbnb is still relatively new, but it’s old enough as a side hustle to be the grandparent of all side hustles. If you have extra space in your home, you sign up to rent it to people staying in your area. You need pictures and details of the space.
Use your real estate skills to put you in contact with interesting travelers!
5. Use your computer skills
The computer is the universal link in side hustles — it connects your services with potential clients. You can also use your computer skills to find side hustles.
Consider writing short pieces or teaching people how to use Word or Excel.
Fiverr is a service specializing in writing, digital marketing and programming and tech. Simply bid for advertised services needed.
Many providers also give purchasers upsell options, such as extra-fast delivery and other options that increase the amount of cash you’re able to make.
A good side hustle can tide you through a slow season, burnish your skills and give you information on neighborhoods and needs that you can use as a real estate agent.
Megan Wild is the editor of Your Wild Home in Philadelphia. Follow her on Twitter or Facebook.
