3-On Your Side: Rent Your Stuff
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Think about how much stuff you own, and how little you use some of it.
Wouldn't it be nice to make some money on your stuff while it's sitting around? As 3 On Your Side consumer reporter Jim Donovan finds, these days, it's easier than ever.
Need a car for a day, or a weekend? Talk to Kristin Campbell. She rents hers out all the time.
"I've had several really positive rental experiences," said Campbell.
She just lists it as available on SnapGoods, one of a growing number of web sites that allow owners to post their possessions for rent.
You can find anything from cars to cameras to disco balls.
"If you're the person who owns the items, the ability to deflate costs on something that you spent a good deal of money on is great, particularly if you're not using it," said Ron Williams with SnapGoods.
And it's not just stuff you can rent out. On sites such as ParkAtMyHouse you can make money off your driveway or extra lot.
"It's really popular if you live near a ball park or stadium," said Kyle Taylor with ThePennyHoarder.com
There's StoreAtMyHouse.com too.
"People are renting out their extra closet space and attic space," said Taylor.
So what can you make by renting out your stuff or space?
You could get over $200 a month for a driveway, $300 for your car for a week or $20 for your Kitchen Aid mixer for the day
"We let the demand side drive the initial request and parameters and then they can debate back and forth on this really simple interface that we give people," said Williams.
But you still need to take some precautions. Be sure the site you rent your stuff through offers you protection in case something goes wrong. And check your own insurance policies and zoning laws to make sure it's ok to rent out your car, or a parking space.
If you're considering renting your stuff or space, you may want to try being a renter first to get a good feel for the experience.
RELATED LINKS:
http://www.thepennyhoarder.blogspot.com
Reported by Jim Donovan, CBS 3
