Educational Guides and Tips
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April 3, 2024

10 Ways to Financially Benefit From Your Home

Discover 10 ways to financially benefit from your home. From creative financing options to renting out your property, unlock the hidden potential!

Financial Benefits of Homeownership

Owning a home not only provides the security and comfort of a place to call your own, but it also offers several financial benefits. In this section, we will explore three ways homeowners can financially benefit from their properties: creative financing options for real estate investors, maximizing rental income, and utilizing home equity for investments.

Creative Financing Options for Real Estate Investors

Real estate investors often need to think outside the box to secure the best funding for their deals. Creative financing refers to unconventional or alternative financing strategies that individuals can utilize to acquire available land or properties. By exploring these options, investors can overcome traditional financing hurdles and expand their real estate portfolio.

Here are some creative financing options for real estate investors:

Financing Option

Cash-out refinance

Home equity line of credit

Personal loan

Seller financing

Lease option

Self-directed IRA

Hard money loans

Private money loans

FHA loans

Crowdfunding

Cross collateral

Figures courtesy of Landlord Studio

Each option has its own advantages and considerations. For example, cash-out refinance involves tapping into the equity of your home to borrow funds for other investments, offering more favorable interest terms compared to a traditional home equity loan. Seller financing is a method where the property seller agrees to hold the purchase note, allowing investors to minimize their personal financial commitment and rely on external sources of funding.

Maximizing Rental Income

One of the most common ways homeowners financially benefit from their properties is through rental income. If you have additional space in your home, such as a basement or an extra bedroom, you can consider renting it out to generate additional cash flow. This can be particularly beneficial if you live in a desirable location or near popular amenities.

By setting a competitive rental price, conducting thorough tenant screening, and maintaining your property well, you can maximize your rental income. It's important to research the local rental market to ensure that your rental price aligns with the current market rates. Additionally, providing amenities such as laundry facilities or parking spaces can attract tenants and increase your rental income.

Utilizing Home Equity for Investments

Homeownership allows you to build equity over time as you pay down your mortgage and your property appreciates in value. This accumulated equity can be a valuable financial resource that you can leverage for other investments. By utilizing a home equity loan or line of credit, you can access the equity in your home to finance projects such as home improvements, education, or even starting a business.

Before considering this option, it's important to carefully assess your financial situation and determine if it aligns with your long-term goals. It's advisable to consult with a financial advisor or mortgage professional to understand the potential risks and benefits associated with utilizing home equity for investments.

Owning a home opens up a world of financial possibilities. By exploring creative financing options, maximizing rental income, and utilizing home equity for investments, homeowners can leverage their properties to create additional wealth and financial security.

Renting Out Space in Your Home

If you're looking to financially benefit from your home, renting out space can be a viable option. By utilizing the extra space in your home, you can generate additional income to help cover expenses or save for the future. Two common ways to rent out space in your home include renting a room and renting out amenities and yard space.

Renting a Room

Renting out a room in your home, whether on a short- or long-term basis, can be a lucrative source of extra cash. Platforms like Airbnb and running a bed and breakfast from your home provide opportunities to connect with potential renters and maximize your earnings [2].

Factors such as location, amenities, and the unique features of your property can impact the profitability of renting out a room. Desirable locations or accommodations that stand out from the competition may attract more guests, allowing you to charge higher rates and increase your income [3].

When renting out a room, it's important to consider the legal requirements and regulations in your area. Some cities or municipalities may have specific rules regarding short-term rentals or operating a bed and breakfast. Familiarize yourself with the local regulations and ensure compliance to avoid any legal issues.

Renting Out Amenities and Yard Space

In addition to renting out a room, you can also generate income by renting out amenities and yard space on your property. For example, if you have a spacious yard, you may consider renting it out for various purposes, such as a dog park or a swimming pool. Platforms like Sniffspot and Swimply can help facilitate these types of rentals [4].

By offering unique amenities or spaces for rent, you can attract individuals or businesses seeking a specific setting or experience. This can be especially appealing if you live in a desirable location or if your property has distinctive features that make it stand out from the competition.

When renting out amenities and yard space, it's important to establish clear guidelines and rules to ensure the safety and satisfaction of your renters. Additionally, consider any potential liability issues and consult with an insurance professional to ensure you have adequate coverage.

Renting out space in your home can provide a valuable source of income, but it's essential to be aware of the tax implications. Reporting rental income and expenses on your personal income tax return is necessary, and seeking guidance from a qualified tax professional is recommended. Keep in mind that changes in the use of space may have tax implications, such as a deemed sale. Consulting a tax professional can help you navigate these complexities.

By renting out space in your home, you can make the most of your property and unlock its financial potential. Whether it's renting a room or offering unique amenities and yard space, these options can help you generate additional income while utilizing the assets you already have.

Starting a Small Business from Home

In addition to traditional methods of generating income from your home, starting a small business can be a lucrative way to financially benefit from your property. Two popular avenues for creating income streams are through home office tax deductions and renting out storage space.

Home Office Tax Deductions

For individuals interested in running a business from home, taking advantage of home office tax deductions can provide financial benefits. By designating a specific area of your home as a dedicated workspace, you may be eligible to deduct certain expenses related to that space, such as a portion of your rent or mortgage, utilities, and maintenance costs.

To qualify for home office tax deductions, the designated space must be used exclusively for business purposes. It should be a separate area within your home, whether it's a room or a sectioned-off portion of a room. It's important to consult with a tax professional or refer to IRS guidelines to ensure you meet the requirements and properly claim these deductions.

Renting Out Storage Space

If you have extra storage space available in your home, such as a garage, shed, or basement, renting it out can provide an additional source of income. Many individuals and businesses are looking for affordable alternatives to conventional storage units, and your home could be the solution.

By accommodating short-term rentals or seasonal storage for items like RVs, boats, or excess belongings, you can generate revenue from your unused or spare space. Platforms like Neighbor and RVwithme offer an easy way to connect with potential renters, providing a streamlined process for listing and booking storage spaces.

Before renting out storage space, it's important to assess the security and accessibility of the area. Make sure your belongings are safely stored and consider any necessary insurance coverage to protect both your property and the items being stored.

Starting a small business from home can provide flexibility and financial benefits. Whether you take advantage of home office tax deductions or rent out storage space, remember to research local regulations, obtain any necessary certifications or permits, and consult with professionals to ensure you comply with all legal requirements. With careful planning and execution, you can make the most of your home and create a successful venture.

Seasonal Rentals and Tax Benefits

Renting out your property seasonally can provide both financial benefits and potential tax advantages. Let's explore the concept of seasonal rental income and the tax benefits associated with rental properties.

Seasonal Rental Income

Seasonal rentals refer to renting out your property for a specific number of days per year, typically during peak vacation seasons or in popular tourist destinations. One of the advantages of seasonal rentals is that you can still deduct your expenses, even if you use the property for personal use on other occasions.

By renting out your property during specific seasons, you can generate additional income to offset your mortgage payments, property taxes, and maintenance costs. This extra income can contribute to your overall financial well-being and potentially help you pay off your mortgage sooner.

Tax Benefits of Rental Properties

Owning a rental property also comes with various tax benefits. The expenses you incur for the rental property can be deducted from your rental income, reducing your taxable income. Some common expenses that can be deducted include insurance, mortgage interest, property taxes, maintenance costs, and depreciation.

Additionally, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 has introduced further benefits for landlords in certain situations. For example, landlords can take advantage of the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, which allows them to deduct up to 20% of their net rental income. This deduction can significantly lower the overall tax burden on rental income.

Moreover, if you decide to sell your rental property, you may be eligible for a 1031 exchange. Through a 1031 exchange, you can sell your rental property and invest in another property of "like kind" without paying capital gains taxes. This allows you to defer tax payments and potentially grow your real estate portfolio [6].

It's important to note that tax laws and regulations can be complex and subject to change. Therefore, it's advisable to consult with a tax professional or accountant to fully understand the specific tax benefits and implications of owning a rental property.

By leveraging the potential tax benefits and generating seasonal rental income, homeowners can enhance their financial situation and make their property work for them. However, it's essential to research local zoning laws and consider any potential pitfalls associated with renting out extra space in your home to ensure a smooth and successful rental experience.

Increasing Home Value for Profit

As a homeowner, increasing the value of your home is a smart investment strategy that can lead to financial benefits in the long run. One effective way to enhance the value of your property is through rendering, a process that involves applying a protective and decorative coating to the exterior walls. The impact of rendering on home value should not be underestimated.

The Impact of Rendering on Home Value

Rendering can significantly improve the visual appeal and overall aesthetics of your home. One of the main factors contributing to the value of your home is its curb appeal. A fresh coat of render can take years off the visual age of your home, which appeals to buyers and subsequently adds value to the asking price [7].

Furthermore, rendering provides a watertight seal on the exterior of your home. This helps to keep moisture out and minimizes the risk of damp, which can be a major concern for homeowners. Signs of damp can deter potential buyers, so by eliminating this risk, rendering a house could certainly increase its value [7].

In addition to its aesthetic and protective benefits, rendering can also contribute to improved energy efficiency. The barrier provided by rendering improves the insulation of your home, reducing heat loss and lowering energy consumption. This can be appealing to both homeowners and potential buyers, as it translates into cost savings and environmental sustainability [7].

When considering rendering, it's important to understand the different types of render available. The most common types include cement, lime, and pebbledash render. Each has its own characteristics and implications in terms of appearance, maintenance, and cost. It's advisable to consult with professionals to determine the most suitable type of render for your home [7].

The cost of rendering can vary depending on factors such as the size of the property, the type of render and finish preferred, and additional costs like scaffolding. While rendering can be an investment, it has the potential to significantly improve the look and appeal of the property, ultimately adding value [7].

By considering the impact of rendering on home value, homeowners can make informed decisions to enhance their property's worth. Whether it's improving curb appeal, eliminating the risk of damp, or increasing energy efficiency, rendering proves to be a worthwhile investment for those looking to financially benefit from their home.

Risks and Considerations for Rental Properties

While rental properties can provide financial benefits, it's important for landlords to be aware of the potential risks and considerations involved. Being prepared and taking proactive measures can help mitigate these risks and ensure a successful rental experience. Here are two key factors to consider when dealing with rental properties: risk factors for landlords and dealing with property vacancy.

Risk Factors for Landlords

Investing in rental properties comes with inherent risks that landlords should be mindful of. Understanding and managing these risks is crucial for long-term success. Here are some common risk factors to consider:

  1. Property Selection: Investing in an undesirable rental property can result in extended vacancy or additional costs associated with tenants. It is essential to research and choose rental properties located in good rental markets to attract reliable tenants. Calculating cash flows correctly before making a purchase is also vital to ensure positive returns on investment [8].
  2. Property Maintenance: Maintenance is inevitable for rental properties and can come with significant costs. To minimize this risk, landlords should consider purchasing properties that are less than 15 years old, perform regular maintenance and inspections, and set aside money from each rent payment into a reserve fund to cover unexpected maintenance issues.
  3. Tenant Screening: Delinquent tenants who cannot reliably pay rent can cause financial stress and expenses for landlords. To minimize this risk, landlords should send rent reminders, charge late fees, keep detailed payment records, and use tenant screening services to assess prospective tenants' credit, criminal, and eviction history [8].

Dealing with Property Vacancy

Extended periods of property vacancy can be one of the most costly issues for landlords. It's crucial to take proactive steps to minimize this risk. Consider the following:

  1. Market Conditions: Stay informed about the local rental market conditions. Understanding the demand for rental properties in your area will help you set the right rent price and attract potential tenants.
  2. Rent Price: Setting an appropriate rent price is essential to attract tenants and minimize vacancy. Research comparable rental properties in your area to determine a competitive and fair rent price.
  3. Waiting List: Maintain a waiting list of prospective tenants who are interested in renting your property. This way, you can quickly fill vacancies and reduce the time your property remains unoccupied.

By understanding the risks associated with rental properties and taking proactive measures to mitigate them, landlords can navigate the challenges and maximize the financial benefits of their rental investments. It's essential to be prepared, stay informed about the market, and maintain a proactive approach to property management.

Renting Out Space Outside Your Home

If you have extra space outside your home, there are several opportunities to generate additional income. Renting out yard space and parking spaces can provide financial benefits while making the most of your property.

Renting Out Yard Space

Renting out your yard space can be a creative way to monetize your property. Various platforms, such as Sniffspot and Swimply, allow homeowners to share their outdoor spaces at hourly or nightly rates, offering amenities like big yards and backyard pools [9]. By renting out your yard, you can earn extra income while providing a unique experience for renters and engaging with your neighbors.

Renting Out Parking Spaces

If you have parking spaces available, renting them out can be a profitable option, especially if you live near an airport, station, or stadium. By listing your parking spaces on platforms like SpotHero, you can connect with drivers who are looking for convenient parking options [10]. This allows you to maximize the use of your property and earn additional income from the available parking space.

When renting out yard space or parking spaces, it's important to consider factors such as liability and insurance. Ensure that you have appropriate agreements in place with renters and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your property. Additionally, familiarize yourself with any local regulations or permits that may be required for renting out these spaces.

By exploring the options of renting out yard space and parking spaces, you can tap into the potential of your property and leverage underutilized areas to generate additional income. Platforms that facilitate these rentals make it easier to connect with potential renters and manage the process efficiently. Consider the unique features of your property and explore the opportunities available to make the most of your outdoor space.

References

[1]: https://www.landlordstudio.com/blog/creative-financing-real-estate/

[2]: https://newsilver.com/the-lender/ways-to-make-money-with-your-house/#method-1-rent-out-a-room

[3]: https://www.quora.com/Is-it-possible-to-earn-money-by-renting-out-individual-bedrooms-in-a-single-family-home-through-platforms-like-AirBnB/

[4]: https://newsilver.com/the-lender/ways-to-make-money-with-your-house/#method-2-rent-out-your-yard

[6]: https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/051515/pros-cons-owning-rental-property.asp

[7]: https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/expert-advice/does-rendering-add-value/