Decluttering your home at the beginning of the year is always a smart move. You not only are able to get rid of junk but also can make money in creative ways. Doing your homework can pay off for the rest of the year.
Find Out: 6 Things the Middle Class Should Sell To Build Their Savings
Explore More: 5 Subtly Genius Moves All Wealthy People Make With Their Money
Here’s how you can turn decluttering into a moneymaker in 2025.
Make Use of Unused Spaces
Once you’ve decluttered, you might find that you have a lot of unused space that could be better utilized.
“After decluttering, you might find unused spaces within your house,” said Bubba Peek, certified commercial investment member and founder of Bubba Land Company. “For instance, the spare room that you don’t use could be rented out on a short-term basis on Airbnb and VRBO. You can also stage the room using the furniture you already own, so you attract travelers at no initial investment.”
Read Next: 5 ‘Necessities’ Frugal People Don’t Buy, According to Frugal Living Expert Austin Williams
Rent Out Storage Space
If your decluttering efforts freed up a basement, garage or shed, Max Avery, chief business development officer at Syndicately, advised renting it out as storage space to people needing a secure place for their belongings.
He said apps like Neighbor let you list and manage your storage space, and you can earn passive income while keeping the area tidy.
Peek agreed that unused spaces can also be used as storage space to rent to neighboring households or small businesses. “Since there is a lower volume of personal belongings, garage or basement space in the apartment might become available,” Peek said. “It is a very convenient and effortless way to earn money if the area is known to have a shortage of storage units.”
And this could be quite lucrative. “I would point out that storage spaces in New York City rent for an average of $80 to $300 per month. That’s potentially thousands of dollars a year!” Avery explained.
Convert Savings Into Investments
According to Peek, not having as much clutter can also lead to less impulsive spending, which can mean more money available for investment.
“For example, the funds saved can be spent on opening a new, high-yield savings account, buying stocks with dividends or even paying towards an investment property,” he said.
Have Pop-Up Sales in an Organized Space
“I suggest utilizing your newly organized home as a venue for pop-up sales, whether it’s selling your handcrafted goods, baked items or vintage finds,” Avery said.
He recommended promoting these events on social media and inviting locals for an intimate shopping experience.
“According to Business Insider, the pop-up retail industry is worth an estimated $50 billion and continues to grow in popularity. Take advantage of this trend by showcasing your unique items in a visually appealing and organized space,” he said.
Have a Photo Shoot Location
“My idea is to rent out a decluttered, stylish home for photo shoots,” Avery said.
He explained websites like Peerspace connect property owners with creatives looking for unique backdrops, offering an unconventional way to earn from your space. For instance, if your home has a charming farmhouse aesthetic, photographers or videographers may be interested in using it as a location for their projects.
“I once read about a couple that made $5,500 in one year just by renting out their home for photo shoots!” he said.
More From GOBankingRates
- 4 Subtly Genius Moves All Wealthy People Make With Their Money
- 3 Signs You've 'Made It' Financially, According to Financial Influencer Genesis Hinckley
- Renting vs. Owning a Home: Which Will Be Cheaper in 2025?
- 4 Unusual Ways To Make Extra Money That Actually Work
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Ways To Make Money After Decluttering Your Home in 2025
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
