
Ways to Turn Your Home Into a Side Hustle This Summer
5 Ways to Turn Your Home Into a Side Hustle This Summer
May 2024
Summer is around the corner—and while most people are thinking about vacations, backyard barbecues, or soaking up the sun, smart homeowners are also thinking about how to make their homes pay them back.
In 2024, the gig economy isn’t just for ride-share drivers and freelancers. Your house can become a source of steady, passive income with a little creativity and the right setup. Here are five practical ways to turn your home into a money-making side hustle this summer.
1. List a Room (or the Whole Home) as a Short-Term Rental
With travel ramping up and remote work more common than ever, Airbnb and other platforms are booming again. Whether you have a guest room, a backyard cottage, or a separate unit, short-term rentals are one of the fastest ways to earn income.
Hot tips:
Summer travelers pay a premium—especially near beaches, national parks, or city attractions
Offer weekly or monthly rates to attract remote workers or traveling nurses
Check local regulations and HOA rules before listing
2. Rent Out Your Driveway, Garage, or Storage Space
Apps like Neighbor, Spacer, and Stache are revolutionizing storage by letting homeowners rent out unused space. From RV parking to extra garage storage, your empty areas can generate passive cash flow.
Use cases include:
Seasonal gear storage
College student belongings over the summer
Vehicle or boat parking for travelers
3. Start a Backyard Business
If you’ve got outdoor space, put it to work. Creative homeowners are turning backyards into:
Mini event venues for micro-weddings or private dinners
Pop-up yoga or fitness class spaces
Garden or greenhouse rentals for local growers or florists
Pet-friendly play yards for local dog owners
Pro tip: Keep overhead low and think local—many small businesses need unique, short-term spaces.
4. Create a Content Studio or Rental Space
Have a clean, well-lit space in your home? List it on platforms like Peerspace or Giggster for creators who need a backdrop for:
YouTube videos
Podcasts
Brand photo shoots
Online courses or interviews
Set up a few props, soundproofing, or ring lights—and you’re in business.
5. Offer Your Home as a Film or TV Location
From independent films to reality shows, production companies are always scouting interesting or “everyday” homes for shoots. Sites like Set Scouter or ProductionHUB let you list your home for location rental.
Potential payout: Anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand per day, depending on the project.
Bottom Line
You don’t need to own multiple properties or start a side business from scratch to earn extra income—you just need to look at your home differently. From unused bedrooms to empty garages, your property can become a powerful tool for financial growth.
So this summer, instead of just enjoying your home—put it to work for you. A few smart moves could turn the sunny season into a serious revenue stream.