Fast and Easy Ways to Make Extra Money

You may be low on cash, in debt, or simply want to save up for a dream vacation. Whatever the reason, if you need to bring in some extra cash quick, the ideas below may help.

1. Have a yard sale. I know people who have made up to $1000 in a single weekend by simply getting rid of things they no longer want or need. For best results, team up with friends and neighbors for your yard sale, as bigger yard sales draw bigger crowds. As much as possible, neatly arrange your sale items so people can see at a glance what you have for sale; many people don't want to dig through a pile of stuff to find the hidden treasure, so make it easy for them. Finally, mark things low or be ready to go down on your price. You'll make more money on items that are reasonably priced.

2. Babysit. This is an especially great thing for a stay-at-home mom with young children to do. Rates for childcare differ dependent on where you live. In my area, caring for a single infant brings in $1000 per month. If you don't want to have an extra child or children in your home full time, advertise to do after school care. That of course won't bring in as much money, but you'll still have most of your day free if you do afterschool care only.

3. Pet sit for people in your neighborhood. This is an especially good money maker during the summer months, when many people travel. Put flyers on doors in the neighborhood to advertise your services. You can also post your flyer on a community bulletin board.

4. Sell your used books. Although you can attempt to sell books at a yard sale, you'll make more money on them if you sell them online. Great places to sell books online include Amazon, Abe Books, Alibris, and Half.com. Keep in mind that you'll need to ship books in a timely manner.

5. Rent out a room. If you have an extra room that sits empty all year long, you can make a good amount of cash by simply renting out the room to a college student or someone else who needs an inexpensive place to stay. For safety reasons, let your room availability be known through word of mouth rather than through advertising in the newspaper.