Latest news with #Neighbor
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
3 Ways To Make Money If You Are Unable To Work
Life can throw curveballs — injuries, illnesses, caregiving responsibilities or just burnout that hits harder than expected. If you're unable to work right now, that doesn't mean your income has to come to a full stop. Read Next: Learn More: Whether you're looking for a way to bring in a little extra cash from your couch or need ideas that don't require a 9-to-5 hustle, here are some ways to make money when traditional work just isn't an option. One of the first things Andrew Gosselin, CPA, personal finance expert and senior contributor at SaveMyCent, usually suggests is freelance writing or editing. 'The good thing here is you set the pace,' he said. You can take on one small assignment at a time, build up your confidence and see what works. There's no commute and no team meetings — just your words and your time. Gosselin said you can make anywhere from $50 to $500 per article depending on experience, and it really just depends on the topic and the client. The work is out there if you know where to look. Gosselin noted that sites like Upwork and Fiverr are a start, but even pitching blogs or websites directly can open doors. Check Out: It takes a little upfront effort, but Gosselin said once you've made something like a planner, a set of printables or worksheets, they can keep making money without you doing much else. 'People sell these things on Etsy and Gumroad all the time, and you don't need to be a professional designer,' he said. Forbes recommended creating anything from e-books and mini courses to social media template collections. Tools like Canva make it easy, and even using artificial intelligence tools can help shape your ideas if you're not sure where to begin. If you've ever created something useful for yourself, chances are someone else could use it too. According to Kevin Huffman, owner of Kriminil Trading, you can try renting out idle assets, like a parking space, which can generate $50 to $300 per month, or storage space for $100 to $500 per month, on sites like Neighbor. Huffman suggested even renting out high-end clothes. You can also make a couple hundred dollars a month simply by renting out your spare bedroom as a makeshift office. More From GOBankingRates Surprising Items People Are Stocking Up On Before Tariff Pains Hit: Is It Smart? 25 Places To Buy a Home If You Want It To Gain Value This article originally appeared on 3 Ways To Make Money If You Are Unable To Work Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
27-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
I've earned $74,000 renting out space in my yard that I wasn't even using. The side hustle requires almost no effort.
Stacy Spahr put his property on Neighbor, a site where people can rent storage or parking spaces. Since then, about 60 people have parked RVs, buses, and other vehicles on his land. He charges each between $90 and $200 a month, earning him a total of about $74,000 since 2022. This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Stacy Spahr, 57, who owns an insurance company in Portland, Oregon. Since 2022, Spahr has used the storage and parking platform Neighbor to rent land on his property to people who need a place to park their vehicles or boats. It has been edited for length and clarity. I own a two-acre property about 30 minutes from downtown Portland that has a small rental home on it. I purchased it from my parents in 2022. Before I bought the property, my dad had used the land to store belongings for some of his friends — things like trailers. He was old-school, so the arrangements were made with just a handshake. As the new owner, it made sense to continue. There are about 21 lots on the property, and I didn't have enough friends to fill them. I knew I needed to bring in other renters, ideally through a platform that could take much of the work off my plate. I stumbled across Neighbor on Google. The platform helps property owners find renters who need parking spaces. The company acts somewhat like a property manager, mediating between me and the renters. I don't really deal with renters directly, except through the app's messaging feature, which I use very little. Honestly, it almost feels like the renter is running the show — I'm just making the space available and collecting money. I started renting out my property in 2022. I've had RVs, travel trailers, boats, and even a bus parked on the land, and I've made about $74,000 so far. I use Neighbor on my phone as an app, but it's also available online. The platform works pretty simply: I list my available spaces, and Neighbor suggests how much I should charge, though I can adjust the price. The company verifies renters through their driver's licenses. The renter pays Neighbor, and then 30 days after payment is collected, Neighbor deposits the money into my checking account. The company takes a small cut of the rent and charges the renter a service fee. A cool thing about the platform is that Neighbor guarantees payment. A couple of times, renters have fallen behind on payments. When that happens, Neighbor sends me a notification and asks me to stand by for instructions. They might ask for a photo of what's in the spot, and as long as I follow their requests, like sending photos of the lot or allowing a tow truck to come to the property, I still get paid. People have tried to steer me outside the app occasionally, like, "Hey, here's my phone number, can we work something out directly?" They're usually trying to avoid fees. But I always say no. Using the app provides insurance coverage and records all our conversations. If there's ever an issue, Neighbor stands behind it. I started in June 2022 with one spot. It was rented in a day, so I started another spot. It rented quickly. I kept adding to the spots, and now I have about 21. The lots on my property are almost always full. I currently have one open, which is rare. Each lot is a little different. For example, I have one covered and a few larger ones, so pricing can vary. My cheapest space rents for $90 a month, and the most expensive goes for $200. This June will make three years working with Neighbor. In 2022, when I started, I made $7,660; in 2023, I made $25,436; in 2024, I made $29,743; and through May of 2025, I expect to have made $11,572. My mortgage payment on the property is around $2,500 a month. My daughter, a traveling nurse, rents a home that sits on the property from me. On average, I make around $2,500 a month from the Neighbor renters. After covering taxes and a few other expenses — maybe around $500 — I'm left with a couple of thousand dollars a month, free and clear. I'm not using the money I make from Neighbor to supplement my income or pay off debts, mainly because, other than my house, I don't have any debt. I work in insurance and financial planning, so retirement savings is already in my wheelhouse. That said, everyone's situation is different. Renting out your yard could be a great way for others to supplement their income or save for retirement. This started out as a fun project for me, and honestly, it turned out better than I expected once I got Neighbor involved. I own property that increases in value each year, and I'm using the money I make from Neighbor to improve it. I enjoy fixing things up — landscaping, adding gravel, and all that. Unless something crazy happens — like my home doubling in price — I don't see myself selling the property or leaving Neighbor anytime soon. In a few years, I might retire and move to Arizona. If that happens, I'll definitely consider hiring someone to manage the home and keep the property running for me. Read the original article on Business Insider Sign in to access your portfolio
Business Insider
27-04-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
I've earned $74,000 renting out space in my yard that I wasn't even using. The side hustle requires almost no effort.
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Stacy Spahr, 57, who owns an insurance company in Portland, Oregon. Since 2022, Spahr has used the storage and parking platform Neighbor to rent land on his property to people who need a place to park their vehicles or boats. It has been edited for length and clarity. I own a two-acre property about 30 minutes from downtown Portland that has a small rental home on it. I purchased it from my parents in 2022. Before I bought the property, my dad had used the land to store belongings for some of his friends — things like trailers. He was old-school, so the arrangements were made with just a handshake. As the new owner, it made sense to continue. There are about 21 lots on the property, and I didn't have enough friends to fill them. I knew I needed to bring in other renters, ideally through a platform that could take much of the work off my plate. I stumbled across Neighbor on Google. The platform helps property owners find renters who need parking spaces. The company acts somewhat like a property manager, mediating between me and the renters. I don't really deal with renters directly, except through the app's messaging feature, which I use very little. Honestly, it almost feels like the renter is running the show — I'm just making the space available and collecting money. I started renting out my property in 2022. I've had RVs, travel trailers, boats, and even a bus parked on the land, and I've made about $74,000 so far. I use Neighbor on my phone as an app, but it's also available online. The platform works pretty simply: I list my available spaces, and Neighbor suggests how much I should charge, though I can adjust the price. The company verifies renters through their driver's licenses. The renter pays Neighbor, and then 30 days after payment is collected, Neighbor deposits the money into my checking account. The company takes a small cut of the rent and charges the renter a service fee. A cool thing about the platform is that Neighbor guarantees payment. A couple of times, renters have fallen behind on payments. When that happens, Neighbor sends me a notification and asks me to stand by for instructions. They might ask for a photo of what's in the spot, and as long as I follow their requests, like sending photos of the lot or allowing a tow truck to come to the property, I still get paid. People have tried to steer me outside the app occasionally, like, "Hey, here's my phone number, can we work something out directly?" They're usually trying to avoid fees. But I always say no. Using the app provides insurance coverage and records all our conversations. If there's ever an issue, Neighbor stands behind it. The spots on my land are constantly booked I started in June 2022 with one spot. It was rented in a day, so I started another spot. It rented quickly. I kept adding to the spots, and now I have about 21. The lots on my property are almost always full. I currently have one open, which is rare. Each lot is a little different. For example, I have one covered and a few larger ones, so pricing can vary. My cheapest space rents for $90 a month, and the most expensive goes for $200. This June will make three years working with Neighbor. In 2022, when I started, I made $7,660; in 2023, I made $25,436; in 2024, I made $29,743; and through May of 2025, I expect to have made $11,572. My mortgage payment on the property is around $2,500 a month. My daughter, a traveling nurse, rents a home that sits on the property from me. On average, I make around $2,500 a month from the Neighbor renters. After covering taxes and a few other expenses — maybe around $500 — I'm left with a couple of thousand dollars a month, free and clear. I'm reinvesting my earnings back into my home I'm not using the money I make from Neighbor to supplement my income or pay off debts, mainly because, other than my house, I don't have any debt. I work in insurance and financial planning, so retirement savings is already in my wheelhouse. That said, everyone's situation is different. Renting out your yard could be a great way for others to supplement their income or save for retirement. This started out as a fun project for me, and honestly, it turned out better than I expected once I got Neighbor involved. I own property that increases in value each year, and I'm using the money I make from Neighbor to improve it. I enjoy fixing things up — landscaping, adding gravel, and all that. Unless something crazy happens — like my home doubling in price — I don't see myself selling the property or leaving Neighbor anytime soon. In a few years, I might retire and move to Arizona. If that happens, I'll definitely consider hiring someone to manage the home and keep the property running for me.
Forbes
14-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- Forbes
The Very Best Wicker Furniture, From Dining Sets To Sofas
Picking out wicker furniture for your patio or backyard involves more than considering which look or style you like. Since this furniture lives outdoors, it's also essential to prioritize ease of maintenance and durability. Out of the very best wicker furniture, our favorites are Frontgate's timeless Isola Collection, Yardbird's eco-conscious Harriet Collection and Neighbor's modern Roundabout Collection. Not only are the pieces in each collection attractive, but they're made from resilient synthetic wicker that can withstand sun, rain and humidity without fading or falling apart. Some of the best outdoor furniture comes from brands like Frontgate, Neighbor and Yardbird. Perhaps the most important thing to know when shopping for wicker furniture is that there's both natural and synthetic wicker, and they require different levels of care. "The primary difference between natural and synthetic wicker is synthetic polyethylene wicker is really designed specifically for outdoor use and truly qualifies as an 'all-weather' material," says Kathy Kuo, CEO and founder of Kathy Kuo Home. "Natural wicker is beautiful and is certainly suitable for use on a porch or deck, but you can't leave it out exposed to the elements the same way that you can with synthetic wicker pieces and expect to have a long usage life." That said, natural wicker still has a place outdoors, as long as you're able to store it safely during harsh weather. Ahead, we've rounded up the best outdoor wicker furniture to suit different tastes and budgets, from investment-worthy seating to affordable sets to stylish dining furniture. And after you find the perfect pieces, be sure to check out our guide on how to clean your patio to keep your outdoor area looking great all season. Yardbird Materials: Commercial-grade aluminum frames with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) wicker | Cushion fabric: Sunbrella | Colors: Gray wicker; cushion options in Silver and Mist Yardbird's Harriet Collection strikes a nice balance between comfort, practicality and clean design. To start, the pieces have a pared-back style with subtle curves and slim arms that complement almost any outdoor setup. And because they're made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) wicker—which is one of the most durable and weather-resistant materials you can find—the entire collection is built to handle years of sun exposure, humidity and rain. The cushions are designed to last, too; the brand uses Sunbrella fabric, which is known for being easy to clean and stain-resistant. While the Harriet Sofa Set—which features a sofa, two fixed chairs and a coffee table—is an excellent all-in-one option, Yardbird offers plenty of smaller sets and individual pieces that make it effortless to customize your space. Plus, the brand backs everything with a generous warranty: 10 years on the frames and five on the fabric. Frontgate Materials: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) wicker with sustainably harvested teak frames | Cushion fabric: N/A | Colors: Driftwood finish wicker; natural teak frame Frontgate's Isola Collection makes sense if you prefer outdoor furniture that's genuinely low-maintenance. The pieces don't rely on cushions for comfort, which is especially practical if your patio is exposed to rain. Instead, Isola uses a wide, open weave made from durable synthetic wicker that's breathable and quick to dry, making it ideal for coastal or humid climates. The collection includes sofas, loveseats, armchairs and chaises, all built around sturdy teak frames. Teak naturally handles moisture, resists pests and ages into an attractive silvery patina over time. (One note: Because teak can release natural oils initially, placing pieces on a rug can help prevent deck or patio staining.) Frontgate also covers the frames with a 10-year warranty. Neighbor Materials: All-weather synthetic rattan with aluminum frames | Cushion fabric: Sunbrella | Colors: Natural, Olive, Charcoal Neighbor's Roundabout Collection feels noticeably fresh compared to traditional outdoor wicker, thanks to its curvy lines and modern profile. It's built with premium synthetic rattan woven onto lightweight aluminum frames, so each piece holds up well to the elements but is still lightweight enough to move around. The seating is deep and roomy, with plush cushions upholstered in easy-to-clean Sunbrella fabric. And because the collection is modular, you can arrange and rearrange pieces—like sofas, sectionals, chairs or even a chaise—however you want. One more nice perk: The brand gives you 45 days to make sure you've selected furniture that truly works for your space. Materials: Handwoven synthetic wicker with powder-coated steel frames | Cushion fabric: Scotchgard-treated polyester | Colors: Neutral wicker; gray cushions The Bellamy Set from Better Homes & Gardens includes everything you need to furnish a full outdoor seating area: two club chairs, a three-seat sofa and a coffee table. It's a larger setup than you usually get at this price; the four-piece set costs less than what you'd typically pay for a sectional alone. Even still, the pieces feel sturdy and well made, with double-wall synthetic wicker, rust-resistant steel frames and cushions that hold up well to sun and spills, thanks to fade-resistant fabric and a Scotchgard treatment. The neutral colors make it easy to match with other outdoor pieces, and the coffee table adds a little storage with its woven lower shelf. While it's not the most customizable set, it makes sense for those who want something that looks pulled together right out of the box. Amazon Materials: Powder-coated metal frames with PE rattan | Cushion fabric: Removable zippered polyester covers | Colors: Six cushion options; neutral wicker Ovios offers a wide range of set sizes; you can pick anywhere from two to eight pieces, which makes it easy to find furniture that fits your space without overcomplicating the process. The frames are sturdy, the wicker holds up well outdoors and the cushions are thicker than you typically see at this price. You also get more choices than usual: six cushion colors, higher backs for better support and covers you can remove and wash. Assembly takes a bit of patience (you want to leave the screws loose until everything lines up), but once it's together, the setup is ready for your patio. Frontgate Materials: Handwoven resin wicker with powder-coated aluminum frames | Cushion fabric: Solution-dyed acrylic or Sunbrella | Colors: Metallic bronze wicker; multiple cushion options If you're the type of person who loves to throw big outdoor dinner parties in the summer, the Palermo dining set includes six cushioned chairs and a rectangular table with a temperated glass top that's easy to wipe down after meals. Featuring powder-coated aluminum frames and resin wicker that's tightly woven and built to handle the elements, the pieces feel solid and well-made—but they're still easy enough to move around when needed. In addition, cushions come included and use solution-dyed fabric that resists fading, with the option to upgrade to fully waterproof Sunbrella if you want extra protection. While this is one of the more expensive options on this roundup, the build quality reflects that, and the frames are backed by a 10-year warranty. And if you don't need something quite this large, Frontgate also sells smaller configurations in the same collection, including a five-piece bar set. Amazon Materials: Synthetic wicker with iron frames; acacia wood table | Cushion fabric: Water-resistant polyester | Colors: Multi-brown wicker; crème cushions; natural wood table This seven-piece set from Christopher Knight Home includes everything you need for outdoor dining: six chairs and an expandable table that extends from 63 to nearly 79 inches. The table is made from acacia, a dense hardwood that naturally resists moisture and wear, which makes it perfect for outdoor furniture. If your space doesn't have overhead coverage, there's a built-in hole to fit a patio umbrella. The chairs are made from woven synthetic wicker that's stretched over powder-coated iron frames, so they're lightweight but feel sturdy. While the set isn't designed to handle heavy rain or harsh winters without protection, it's a well-priced option for covered patios or mild-weather climates. Plus, cushions come included and they're water-resistant and easy to clean. At Forbes Vetted, we've researched and reviewed hundreds of indoor and outdoor living products, from the best patio furniture to the best couches, to help readers create spaces that are both functional and inviting. To find the best outdoor wicker furniture, we looked at a wide range of collections and evaluated each based on material quality, construction, comfort, price and long-term durability. If you love the look of wicker furniture but don't know how to tell apart the durable, easy-to-maintain pieces from the ones that won't last longer than a season, here's what to consider as you browse everything from sectionals to dining sets. One of the first decisions you need to make is whether to go with natural or synthetic wicker. As Kuo explains, synthetic wicker is designed specifically for outdoor use and qualifies as an all-weather material. While natural wicker is beautiful, you can't leave it exposed to the elements and expect it to last for a long time. For most outdoor setups, especially uncovered patios or spaces exposed to rain and humidity, synthetic HDPE wicker is the best bet. 'Outdoor furniture made from all-weather synthetic polyethylene wicker is what is going to stand up best to the elements and look the best while doing so,' Kuo says. PVC-based wicker doesn't hold up as well over time and may start to look brittle or shiny after a season or two. Today, you can find wicker furniture of all kinds—there are modular sectionals, chaises, ottomans and dining sets. What makes the most sense for you depends on how you use your space. 'Outdoor design is really very similar to indoor design—it's about maximizing space and making it work for the kinds of activities most important to you,' says Kuo. If you mostly hang out with family, she recommends prioritizing deep, cozy seating. If you entertain often, look for smaller, more versatile chairs and leave room for extras like a dining table or bar cart. Even the best outdoor wicker furniture needs a little care to last through multiple seasons. Synthetic wicker is designed to resist the elements, but regular cleaning and proper storage go a long way. 'My primary piece of advice about maintaining outdoor furniture is to do your homework on the proper care for whatever materials your pieces are made from,' Kuo says. 'If you have the space to do so, especially if you live in a climate with colder, wetter winters, I would recommend storing at least some of your outdoor furniture during the offseason.' The wicker is just one part of the equation. Be sure to check what the frames are made of and how the cushions are constructed. 'Powder-coated aluminum, weathered teak, synthetic wicker and wrought iron are all great options for durable outdoor furniture,' Kuo says. 'When it comes to outdoor upholstery—cushions, throw pillows and umbrellas—Sunbrella fabric is really the all-weather gold standard.'
Yahoo
10-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
What the Tech: Tech for side hustles
With the cost of everything rising, many of us are looking for ways to supplement our income. Thankfully, technology has made it easier to start a side hustle right from the palm of your hand. Whether you're looking to make a little extra cash or build something more substantial, your smartphone and a few key apps can be your ticket to financial freedom. If you think you don't have the time or skills, think again. Even a hobby can be a money-maker. Platforms like Etsy are booming, with creators selling everything from handmade goods to digital files. Digital products like gift card templates, daily planners, and calendars are particularly popular. If graphic design isn't your forte, tools like Canva make it incredibly simple to create professional-looking designs. Got office skills? Sites like Fiverr and Upwork connect freelancers with businesses needing help with accounting, marketing, or administrative tasks. Your expertise is valuable, and these platforms make it easy to find clients. Decluttering can also be profitable. Facebook Marketplace is a great starting point for selling unwanted items, but consider exploring WhatNot for live garage sales. You can showcase your items in real time and engage with buyers directly. Beyond selling physical goods, you can leverage your space. Apps like Sniffspot allow you to rent out your yard to pet owners, providing a safe space for their furry friends to play. If you have extra parking space, Neighbor lets you rent it out to people with RVs or extra vehicles. Even spare storage space in your garage or bonus room can be turned into a revenue stream. Sharing your knowledge is another powerful side hustle avenue. Starting a YouTube channel is free, and you can create videos demonstrating anything from home repairs to cooking tips. Successful creators can earn significant income through advertising and sponsorships. Finally, consider mastering emerging technologies like Chat GPT, Microsoft CoPilot, Google Gemini, or Perplexity. Businesses are increasingly seeking individuals with expertise in AI tools, and offering your services as a Chat GPT consultant could be a lucrative side hustle. The bottom line is that there are countless opportunities to turn your interests and time into extra money. With a little effort and the right technology, you might discover a side hustle that blossoms into a full-time passion and income source. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
