When you’re working towards paying down debt, one of the best things you can do is increase your income. Along with using the ReadyForZero web app, my ability to make extra money from home by taking on side jobs and selling stuff was the main reason I was able to pay off $14,000 of debt in one year.

There are plenty of legitimate ways to make extra money from home that are both fun and lucrative. Some may involve starting your own small business, while others mean working for clients while using your home as an office.

Here are some ways you can jump start paying down debt and make extra money on the side, while working from home.

Freelance Writing

There are places like Freelancer Switch and Odesk that list freelance jobs and offer work for writers and editors. However, one of the best ways I’ve been able to grow my freelance writing business is from my blog and my portfolio. You can also find which publications and websites pay really well, and get in contact with them. Even if you’re not interested in starting a blog, you should still create a home base where potential clients can find you and look at your work. This can be one of the most powerful ways to make money from home.

Sell Jewelry or Etsy Wares

Selling products from home is becoming more and more popular every day. From selling jewelry lines by Origami Owl, to home decor by Willow House, to crafting your own products to resell on Etsy, there’s no shortage of money to be made from selling out of your home. You can even sell designer jeans or beauty products, with very low to no startup costs.

Become a Virtual Assistant

If you’re an organized person who loves helping other people streamline their work, you should consider becoming a virtual assistant. All you need to start getting work and making money, is to have a computer with a good Internet connection. A virtual assistant does a variety of tasks, from submitting sites to social media, to answering emails, to scheduling appointments.

Buy Items to Resell

I use to be a very successful powerseller on eBay. For those of you that don’t know, a powerseller is someone who grosses at least $1,000 in sales for 3 months in a row. So it’s easy to say I was pretty good at selling thrift store finds on eBay for a profit. This has been a great way for me to make extra money, while cleaning out the stuff in my house. Items that sold the best for me were electronics, video games and musical instruments.

Help Others Sell Stuff

One of the best and most fun things I did was start helping other friends and family members sell their stuff on eBay and Craigslist. They don’t always have the time or expertise, and I can make a commission off the sale without having to search for new merchandise. It’s a win-win.

Teach Others Through Tutoring

Whether you’re a healthy expert, a DIY creative or a really good cook, you can offer to teach others the skills and knowledge you’ve gained. With sites like Tutor.com you can apply to become a part-time tutor for schools, libraries and higher education.

Rent Out Space in Your Home

If you have a spare bedroom in your home and a high tolerance for other people, you could easily make extra money by renting out a space in your home. Overnight travelers are always looking for a comfortable bed and breakfast, and thanks to AirBnB you can list your space to frequent travelers who are weary of hotels and motels.

Make Extra Money by Growing and Selling Your Own Produce

Farmer’s markets are rapidly becoming the go-to places for people who want to eat fresh, wholesome foods. If you love the idea of growing your own organic home-grown produce, consider selling at local farmer’s markets or to friends, family, and neighbors. Almost everyone prefers the taste of fresh picked veggies to a store bought ones.

These are just a few ideas for how to make extra money from home in a legitimate way. Hopefully using these ideas and others you’ll be able to pay off your debt and start building wealth!

Image 1 credit: autiscy; Image 2 credit: yaylove; Image 3 credit: Tulane Public Relations