Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on a link I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can read the full disclosure here.
Last Updated on October 22, 2023 by Alex
In a world brimming with opportunities and online platforms, the possibilities for making money by selling various items or services are practically endless. Whether you’re looking to declutter your living space, explore a new side hustle, or establish a full-fledged business, there’s a market for almost everything.
In this post, you’ll get the answer to one important question, “What can I sell to make money?”
From the treasures hidden in your attic to the skills you’ve honed over the years, you’ll explore a range of options that cater to different interests, talents, and aspirations.
What Can I Sell To Make Money
The products or services you can sell to make money depend on various factors, including your skills, interests, resources, and market demand. Here are some of the things you can sell to make good money:
- Freelance work
- Handmade crafts
- Print-on-demand products
- Dropshipping
- Online courses
- Stock Photos
- Life coaching
- Real estate flipping
- Music lessons
Before starting any business, it’s crucial to research the market, identify your target audience, and consider the legal aspects.
Things To Sell Online
In this section, you’ll learn about all the different things you can sell to make money online and which online marketplace is best for each product.
Clothes
Selling old clothes online can be a lucrative venture, but it requires careful planning and execution. You can use dedicated clothes-selling platforms, online auction sites, or create your own website to sell clothes.
The market for selling clothes online is hugely competitive. To stand out make sure to use high-quality photos, market your sales using social media, and always write compelling descriptions.
Top sites to sell high-demand clothes on include:
Handcrafted Items
Selling handcrafted items online can be a rewarding venture. You could sell jewelry, home decor, candles, leather goods, or any other craft you excel at.
To start selling your handcrafted items you can set up an online store using an e-commerce platform like Etsy, Shopify, or Amazon Handmade.
When pricing your products remember to include the cost of materials, your time, and other overheads.
Printables
Selling printables can be a profitable online business. The first step is to Identify a niche for your printables. This could be anything from planners and organizers to art prints, educational materials, or business resources.
Once you’ve created your designs you need to choose a platform to sell your printables. Popular options include:
To boost sales, use social media platforms to showcase your printables and engage with potential customers.
Consider running promotions, collaborating with influencers, or using paid advertising to increase visibility. Check these great guides for selling printables on Etsy here.
Electronics
Selling old electronics online can be one of the best things to sell to make money and declutter your space. To sell old electronics you can a popular selling app such as Decluttr, eBay, and Swappa.
Remember to make sure all personal data is wiped from the devices. Always perform a factory reset on smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Photos
Selling photos online can be a great way to monetize your photography skills. You should consider specializing in a specific niche, such as landscape, portrait, travel, or stock photography. Specializing can help you target a specific audience.
Next, choose an online platform to sell your photos. Popular options include:
When uploading your photos always ensure they’re of high quality and resolution. Buyers often prefer images that can be used for various purposes. Find out the best apps for selling photos here.
Art
Selling art online can be a fulfilling way to monetize your artistic talent. To get started create a digital portfolio showcasing your best and diverse artworks. You can use your own website, social media platforms, or dedicated portfolio websites.
Once you’ve decided what type of art to sell, it’s time to choose an online platform to sell your art. Popular options include:
If applicable, consider offering prints or reproductions of your original work. This can attract a wider audience and create additional revenue streams.
Write A Book
Writing and publishing a book can be a fulfilling way to make money online. First, select a niche or genre that aligns with your interests, expertise, or a topic you’re passionate about.
You could write a how-to guide, a video game walkthrough, or about any other topic you’re interested in.
It’s also worth investing in a professional book cover design. A visually appealing cover can significantly impact sales. If you don’t have the skills to do your own book design, then platforms like Fiverr are a great way to connect with designers who are competitively priced.
Self-publishing platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) make it easy to sell your own books. To market your book you can use social media, newsletters, and other platforms to build a regular readership.
Old Stuff
Selling old stuff can be a great way to declutter your space and make some extra money online. Old stuff you can sell includes books, toys, board games, baby items, electronics, clothes, and anything else that’s still in a reasonable condition.
Popular platforms to sell old stuff include:
Remember to be honest about the condition of your items, and provide accurate information to ensure a positive experience for both you and the potential buyer. Check these interesting ideas for selling on eBay here.
Start A YouTube Channel
Starting a YouTube channel can be a fun and potentially profitable venture. First, identify a niche or topic for your channel. Select something you are passionate about and knowledgeable in, whether it’s gaming, tutorials, vlogging, education, or any other interest.
To gain a following on YouTube you must create and post quality content on a regular basis. By consistently uploading videos, you’ll gain an audience.
Once you reach the threshold to monetize your YouTube channel, you can make money using one or all of the following methods:
- Channel Memberships: Offer exclusive perks to subscribers who join as members
- Merchandise: Design and sell your own merchandise
- Affiliate Marketing: Promote products and earn a commission for sales
- Sponsorships: Partner with brands for sponsored content
Building a successful YouTube channel takes time. Be patient, stay persistent, and continuously improve your content.
Create A Blog
Making money through blogging involves several strategies, and success often takes time and consistent effort.
The first step is to select a niche or topic that you are passionate about and that has an audience. Focus on something you have expertise in or are willing to research extensively. Top blog ideas include:
- Gaming
- Music
- Sports
- Fashion
- Finance
Once you’ve chosen your topic, you can create your blog using platforms like WordPress, Blogger, or Medium.
Blogs take time to build traffic so patience is important. By writing and posting quality blog posts on a regular basis you can grow your blog to become profitable.
You can make money blogging from ads, affiliate links, selling digital products, sponsors, subscriptions, and selling physical merch.
One popular way blogs make money is by joining the Amazon Associate program. The Amazon Associate program gives you access to millions of products that you can potentially add to your blog to make money from.
Sell Online Courses
Creating and selling online courses can be a lucrative way to share your expertise and generate income.
A good online course will use a mix of video lectures, written materials, quizzes, and assignments to keep the course engaging.
Popular platforms to sell online courses include
You can create an online course about any topic you are knowledgeable in. Coding, writing, fitness, cooking, and languages are a few of the top course ideas.
Books
Selling old books online can be a profitable way to declutter and make some extra money. Begin by sorting through your collection and evaluating the condition of each book. Check for any damage, such as tears, stains, or markings.
Select an online platform to sell your books. Popular options include:
You can also sell old books using local options such as Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. This can save on shipping costs and provide a quicker transaction.
Become A Podcaster
Making money through podcasting involves several strategies, and success often comes from a combination of these approaches.
Creating high-quality content on a consistent basis using good audio equipment is key to building a successful podcast.
Podcasts can be monetized via sponsorships, selling digital or physical products, donations, affiliate links, and subscriptions.
Buzzsprout, Podbean, and SoundCloud are three popular podcast platforms you can get started on.
Domain Names
Selling domain names can be a lucrative venture if done strategically. Spend some time researching and selecting domain names that are marketable and have potential resale value. Consider short, memorable, and brandable domain names.
List your domains on domain marketplaces, auction platforms, and forums. Platforms like Sedo, Flippa, and GoDaddy Auctions are some of the best places for domain sales.
You can use social media and other online channels to promote your domain names for sale.
Flea Market Flipper
Flea market flipping involves buying items at flea markets, a thrift store, or other low-cost sources and then selling them for a profit.
It’s a form of entrepreneurship that requires a good eye for valuable items, knowledge of market trends, and effective selling strategies.
You can sell your items on online platforms such as eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or specialized marketplaces for certain types of goods.
One other way to sell stuff you find is by hosting a garage sale or yard sale. Sharing the sale date on local Nextdoor or Facebook groups is a top way to get potential customers to attend.
Answering Surveys
Making money by answering surveys is a straightforward way to earn some quick cash or gift cards. Many companies and market research firms pay individuals for their opinions on various products and services.
Reputable survey sites include:
Remember that while answering online surveys can be a simple way to earn a little extra money, it’s essential to be realistic about the potential income. It’s unlikely to replace a full-time job, but it can provide a bit of additional income or gift cards for participating in market research.
Dog Treats
Selling dog treats can be a rewarding business, especially if you have a passion for pets and enjoy crafting high-quality, healthy treats.
A great way to start your dog treat business is by heading to Diva Dog Bakery. There you can learn everything you need to know about starting your very own successful dog treat bakery.
Gift Cards
Selling gift cards online can be a great way to make extra cash. You might already have a drawer full of unused gift cards that you can resell.
You can sell unwanted gift cards using social media or using dedicated gift card reselling platforms.
CardCash, ClipKard, and Raise are three sites you can use to resell gift cards.
Tutoring
Tutoring online can be a rewarding way to make money while helping others learn. First, decide the subjects or skills you are proficient in and would like to tutor. This could range from academic subjects to language learning, test preparation, or specialized skills like coding or music.
Popular platforms for online tutoring include:
Alternatively, you can set up your own tutoring business and advertise online locally using Facebook or Nextdoor.
Things To Sell Offline
If selling things online isn’t your jam, then don’t worry. There are plenty of things you can sell offline too.
Rent A Room
Renting out a room can be a great way to earn extra income, especially if you have a spare room in your home.
You can either rent a room on a long-term basis by taking in a lodger or rent your spare room on short-term deals. If you live in a popular area for tourists, then short-term rentals could be your own personal goldmine.
Make sure to check local laws and regulations related to renting a room. Some areas have specific rules regarding renting out rooms, so it’s important to comply with legal requirements.
Websites like Craigslist, Airbnb, or local rental websites can help you reach potential tenants.
Make sure to check local laws and regulations related to renting a room. Some areas have specific rules regarding renting out rooms, so it’s important to comply with legal requirements. Learn more about money-making opportunities on Airbnb here.
Rent Your Car
Renting out your car is one way to earn extra income. Ensure that your car is in good condition before renting it out. Clean and maintain it regularly, and address any necessary repairs or servicing.
To rent out your car you can use platforms like Turo and Getaround. Most rental platforms include insurance as part of the agreement. Make sure to check all requirements when signing up to ensure your car is fully protected should it be involved in an accident. Learn more on how to make money renting your car on Turo here.
Rent Your Stuff
Renting out your possessions can be a practical way to generate extra income, and it aligns with the growing trend of sustainability.
You can rent out your tools, outdoor equipment, electronics, clothing, furniture, or even specialty items like cameras or party supplies.
The following websites can all be used to make money renting out your stuff:
Renting out your possessions can be a sustainable and profitable way to make money from the things you own. Learn more about the rental business in this excellent guide here.
Sell Your Time
If you don’t want to sell a physical or digital product, then one more easy thing you can sell is your time. These options could provide a full-time income or can be a nice side hustle to supplement your existing income.
Freelancing
Becoming a freelancer can offer you the flexibility to work on projects you’re passionate about and control your own schedule.
The freelancing world covers almost any skill you can think of. Popular freelance jobs include:
- Web designer
- Coder
- Writer
- Data entry
- Graphic designer
- Video Editor
- Social media manager
The first step is to think about your skills and expertise. Once you’ve decided what skills you can offer, then it’s time to offer your services. You can market yourself online using social media or your own website.
Alternatively, you can sign up for freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, or others that are popular in your field. These platforms connect freelancers with clients looking for specific skills.
Remember that freelancing is a journey, and success often comes with time and effort. Keep refining your skills, delivering exceptional work, and building positive relationships with clients to thrive in the freelance world.
Driving
Becoming a driver can mean pursuing a career as a rideshare driver, delivery driver, truck driver, or in another capacity.
First, decide what type of driving you’re interested in. Are you considering becoming a rideshare driver, a truck driver, or perhaps a delivery driver?
Once you’ve decided what type of driving you want to do, then you can choose your platform. Popular driving platforms include:
Remember that the specific steps you need to take will depend on the type of driving you’re interested in. You must always comply with local and state laws including obtaining any specialist license if required. Learn more on how to get paid for driving your car here.
Become A Virtual Assistant
Becoming a virtual assistant can be a rewarding and flexible career choice. Virtual assistants often handle tasks such as email management, scheduling, data entry, social media management, customer support, and more.
A key benefit of becoming a virtual assistant is you often have full control over your own schedule. That means you can work when you want as often as you want.
To offer your services as a virtual assistant you can promote yourself using social media or your own website. You can also use websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and People Per Hour to connect with clients seeking your services.
Pet Sitting
Pet sitting can be a fulfilling and enjoyable way to earn money, especially if you have a love for animals.
There are several ways to advertise your pet-sitting services to attract clients. You can use online platforms such as Rover, Wag!, or Care, where pet owners search for reliable pet sitters. Additionally, promote your services locally through flyers, social media, or word of mouth.
Pet sitting can be a rewarding and flexible way to make money while enjoying the companionship of animals. Building a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and genuine care for pets will contribute to your success as a pet sitter. More tips on how to get paid to walk dogs here.
House Sitter
House sitting can be a unique way to make money while providing valuable services to homeowners who need someone to look after their homes in their absence.
Your first step is to register on house-sitting platforms where homeowners seek reliable house-sitters. Websites like TrustedHousesitters, Housecarers, or MindMyHouse connect homeowners with potential house sitters.
House sitting can be a fulfilling way to make money while enjoying a change of environment. Building a reputation for reliability, trustworthiness, and respectful conduct will contribute to your success as a house sitter.
Dog Walker
Dog walking can be a rewarding and enjoyable way to make money, especially if you have a love for dogs and enjoy spending time outdoors.
To get started you can register on dog walking platforms where pet owners seek reliable dog walkers. Websites like Rover, Wag!, or Care connect dog walkers with potential clients.
You can also offer your dog walking services using local online groups on Facebook or Nextdoor.
Babysitting
Babysitting can be an enjoyable way to make money, especially if you enjoy spending time with children and have a responsible and caring nature.
To find babysitting clients you can register on babysitting platforms where parents look for reliable babysitters. Websites like Care, Sittercity, or UrbanSitter connect babysitters with potential clients.
You can also advertise your babysitting services both online and locally. Create business cards, posters, or flyers and distribute them in your community. Use social media to reach a wider audience.
Networking within your community and connecting with parents, local schools, and community centers can also lead to babysitting gigs. Word-of-mouth recommendations can be powerful in the babysitting business.
Grocery Shopper
Making money as a grocery shopper typically involves working as a personal shopper or using gig platforms that connect shoppers with people who need groceries.
You can advertise your grocery shopping services locally, through community bulletin boards, or online platforms.
Instacart and Shipt are two platforms that allow you to earn money by shopping for and delivering groceries to customers.
Running Errands
Running errands for others can be a convenient and flexible way to make money. You can start by offering your errand-running services within your local community. You can create flyers, post on community bulletin boards, or use local online platforms to advertise your services.
Another way to make money running errands is by signing up on gig platforms that connect errand runners with individuals who need assistance. Websites like TaskRabbit, Gigwalk, or Thumbtack allow you to find clients looking for help with various tasks.
What To Do With Extra Cash
Deciding what to do with the extra cash you earn depends on your financial goals, circumstances, and priorities. Here are several options to consider.
Emergency Fund
If you don’t already have one, consider building up your emergency fund. Aim for three to six months’ worth of living expenses in a readily accessible account. An emergency fund acts as a financial safety net in case of unexpected expenses or emergencies. Learn more on how to start an emergency fund here.
Pay Off High-Interest Debt
If you have high-interest debt (such as credit card debt), using extra cash to pay it off can save you money on interest payments. This is often one of the most financially savvy moves you can make as even the best credit cards can charge high interest rates.
Invest
Consider investing your extra cash to grow your wealth over time. Options include:
- Stocks: Investing in individual stocks or exchange-traded funds (ETFs)
- Bonds: Lower-risk investments that pay regular interest
- Real Estate: Purchasing property or investing in real estate funds
- Retirement Accounts: Contribute to your retirement accounts, such as a 401(k) or IRA
Save Money For Specific Goals
Allocate funds toward specific goals, such as buying a home, starting a business, or going on a vacation. Creating separate savings accounts for each goal can help you stay organized.
Education And Skill Development
Invest in your education or skills. This could involve taking courses, attending workshops, or acquiring certifications that enhance your knowledge and career prospects.
Start Or Boost A Side Business
If you have a business idea or a side hustle idea, use the extra cash to start or expand it. This could lead to additional income streams over time.
Charitable Contributions
Consider making charitable contributions to causes or organizations you support. It’s a way to give back to the community and make a positive impact.
Travel Or Experiences
Allocate some funds for travel or experiences that bring joy and fulfillment. This could be a vacation, attending events, or participating in activities you’ve always wanted to try.
Tax-Advantaged Accounts
Maximize contributions to tax-advantaged accounts, such as Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), depending on your eligibility and needs.
Build Passive Income Streams
Explore opportunities to build passive income, such as investing in dividend-paying stocks, real estate, or creating digital products that generate income over time.
FAQs
What are some items I can sell online to make money?
You can sell various items online, such as clothing, electronics, handmade crafts, vintage items, books, and more. Online platforms like eBay, Etsy, and Amazon FBA are popular for selling a wide range of products.
Can I make quick money selling second-hand items?
Yes, selling second-hand or used items can be a profitable venture. Clothing, furniture, electronics, and books are common second-hand items that people often buy.
What handmade items can I sell for profit?
Handmade items that often sell well include jewelry, candles, soap, artwork, knit or crochet items, and custom crafts. Online marketplaces like Etsy make it easy for an Etsy seller to sell their handmade and vintage items via their own Etsy shop.
How can I make money selling printables?
You can create and sell printables such as planners, wall art, calendars, and organizational tools. Platforms like Etsy or your own website can be used to market and sell these digital products.
Is it profitable to sell old electronics online?
Yes, selling old electronics online can be profitable. Websites like eBay or dedicated electronics resale platforms allow you to sell used electronics. Ensure the items are in good condition and wipe personal data before selling.
Can I make money selling photos online?
Yes, you can sell your photos online to stock photo websites or directly to clients. Platforms like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and iStock allow photographers to monetize their images.
What types of art can I sell online?
You can sell various types of art online, including paintings, drawings, digital art, sculptures, and prints. Websites like Etsy, Saatchi Art, and Artfinder are popular platforms for selling art.
How can I make money by writing a book?
You can make money by writing and publishing a book through traditional publishing or self-publishing. Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) allow authors to publish and sell their books online.
What are some items I can sell from around my house?
Items you can sell from around your house include clothing, furniture, electronics, books, collectibles, and home decor. Online platforms or local garage sales can be used for selling these items.
Can I make money selling old books online?
How can I make money podcasting?
Podcasters can make money through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, listener donations, and creating premium content for subscription models. Building a loyal audience is crucial for podcast monetization.
Is it profitable to sell domain names?
Yes, selling domain names can be profitable if you have valuable and marketable domain names. You can sell them through domain marketplaces or directly to potential buyers.
What is flea market flipping, and can I make money from it?
Flea market flipping involves buying items at low prices and selling them for a profit, often at flea markets or online. With the right knowledge and skills, you can make money by identifying undervalued items and reselling them at a higher price.
Can I make money answering surveys online?
Yes, you can make some money by participating in online surveys. Various survey websites and market research companies pay individuals to share their opinions on products and services.
What types of services can I offer as a freelancer?
Do I need to spend money to start selling things?
You can start selling things without money by selling stuff you already own. Eventually, you may have to invest money to make more money. One option, even if you have bad credit, is to get a personal loan to start your business.
