Side Hustles for Single Moms: Personal Shopping, Affiliate Marketing, Real Estate
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Being a single mom is a full-time job in itself, but finding ways to bring in extra income while balancing motherhood is a game changer. Whether you’re looking to supplement your income, save for a big goal, or eventually transition into full-time entrepreneurship, side hustles can give you the flexibility and financial boost you need.
Two side hustles that stand out for busy moms are becoming a personal shopper with DoorDash or Instacart of entering the real estate field. Let’s break down why these side hustles are great options and how to get started.
Personal Shopping
If you have a car and a few hours to spare, shopping for others through platforms like DoorDash, Instacart, or Shipt can be an easy way to make extra cash. Here’s why it works well for moms:
Why it’s a Great Side Hustle:
✔ Flexible Schedule - You choose when and how often you work, making it easy to fit around school drop-offs, nap times, and after-school activities.
✔ Quick Payouts - Instant or same-day cash-outs.
✔ Minimal Start-Up Costs - All you need is a reliable car, a smartphone, and a willingness to shop!
How to Get Started:
Sign Up - Visit the website for DoorDash, Instacart, Shipt, etc. and complete the application.
Pass the Background Check - Most platforms require a background check and proof of insurance.
Download the App & Start Shopping - Accept orders, follow the shopping list, and deliver the shopped items to the customer.
Pro Tips for Success:
Work during peak hours (weekends and evenings) to maximize earnings.
Provide great customer service for better tips.
Take advantage of promotions and bonuses offered by the apps.
Be safe! Share your location with a family member or friend while you’re dashing.
2. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is a fantastic way to earn passive income by recommending products you love. Instead of trading time for money, you can monetize your content and make commissions whenever someone makes a purchase through your unique links.
Why It’s a Great Side Hustle:
✔ No Upfront Costs – You don’t need to create products or hold inventory.
✔ Passive Income Potential – Once your links are out there, you can keep earning with minimal effort.
✔ Flexible & Scalable – You can promote products on social media, blogs, YouTube, or email newsletters.
How to Get Started:
Sign Up for Affiliate Programs:
Collective Voice (formerly ShopStyle Collective) – Great for influencers and bloggers.
Post Market – Helps creators monetize their recommendations.
Amazon Associates – Allows you to earn commissions on Amazon products.
Create Content Around the Products You Love:
Share your favorite products on Instagram, TikTok, or Pinterest.
Write blog posts or product reviews.
Use email marketing to share exclusive deals with your audience.
Optimize for Sales:
Use clear calls to action (like “Shop my favorites here!”).
Promote seasonal trends and bestsellers.
Test different platforms to see where your audience engages the most.
Pro Tips for Success:
Be authentic—only recommend products you truly love.
Use high-quality images and engaging captions.
Track your performance to see what’s working and adjust accordingly.
3. Real Estate
Real estate is an incredible side hustle (or full-time career!) for single moms looking to build long-term wealth and financial independence. While it requires a bit more effort to get started, the rewards can be life-changing.
Why it’s a Great Side Hustle:
✔ High Earning Potential - Even selling a few homes a year can bring in a significant income.
✔ Flexible Work Hours - You can schedule showings, open houses, and client meetings around your family’s needs.
✔ Long-Term Growth - Over time, you can transition into full-time real estate, build investment properties, or even start your own brokerage.
How to Get Started:
Take a Pre-Licensing Course - Each state has different requirements, but you’ll need to complete a real estate course.
Pass the Licensing Exam - Study and prepare for the state exam (it’s tough, but doable!)
Join a Brokerage - Choose a brokerage that offers training and mentorship to help you succeed.
Start Networking & Marketing - Build your brand through social media, word-of-mouth referrals and community events.
Pro Tips for Success:
Shadow an experienced agent to learn the ropes.
Use social media to showcase listings and connect with potential buyers.
Stay organized with a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system to track leads and clients.
DISCLAIMER: I am not a licensed realtor, but I have completed the real estate pre-licensing sales course through The CE Shop.
Which Side Hustle is Right for You?
If you need immediate cash flow with minimal upfront costs, personal shopping is a great way to start earing right away. Real estate could be the perfect move if you’re looking for a long-term career with higher income potential. And if you’re feeling ambitious, why not do both?
Side hustles give single moms options, freedom and financial security—and that’s what matters.
Ready to take action?
Here’s my referral link to sign up to deliver with DoorDash. If you do 290 deliveries in Baltimore within 60 days you’ll get a $600 bonus! The referrals bonus can change, so sign up as soon as you can to lock it in. Let me know if you have any questions!
Register with The CE Shop and you will get 35% off your first purchase. Click here to sign up!
Get a $25 gift card when you make your first Maryland Pre-Licensing purchase here.
