How to Flip 5000 Dollars (11 Best Methods in 2024)

By Forrest McCall •  Updated: 01/14/24 •  9 min read

Looking to flip $5000? There's no doubt that some methods are better than others, so I put together this list of proven ways you can grow your money!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Some of the top ways to flip $5,000 include:

  • Investing in real estate with Arrived
  • Investing in stocks with Acorns
  • Starting a business
  • Flipping things on Facebook Marketplace

1. Investing in Real Estate with Arrived

When you're starting out in real estate investing, Arrived can be a solid starting point. This platform offers you a way to get into the real estate market without having to buy an entire property yourself. With your $5,000, you can invest in shares of rental properties that Arrived manages. The best part is that it only requires $100 to get started, making it available to virtually anyone.

Arrived Homes Investing

Think of Arrived as a blend of traditional real estate investment and modern convenience. You can invest your money across different homes, which helps diversify your risk. If one property isn't performing well, the others could balance out your investment, which I love.

What's appealing is the way this setup provides for passive income. You earn your share of the rental income and, hopefully, some appreciation of the property's value over time. It's like having a slice of the landlord pie without dealing with midnight calls to fix a leaky faucet.

Of course, every investment carries its own set of risks. Real estate markets can fluctuate, and profit margins may vary. However, Arrived lets you test the waters of real estate investing without needing deep pockets or extensive expertise in the field. It's a hands-off approach where you put your money in and let the company handle the nitty-gritty.

2. Invest in Stocks with Acorns

Investing in stocks is a classic, proven way to grow your $5,000. With apps like Acorns, you're able to start building a portfolio using small amounts of money. You can also choose to make a larger, one time investment, depending on your goals.

Acorns Investing

You'll encounter risks, as the stock market can fluctuate, but historically, it has been profitable over the long term. Consider it a side hustle that works in the background for you.

Remember to check the performance of your portfolio and the fees associated. Acorns, like any broker, charges for its services.

While you likely won't double your money in an hour, it's a great way to build your wealth over time and keep your risks low.

3. Flip Things on Facebook Marketplace

When you're eyeing a side hustle to grow your $5,000, flipping on Facebook Marketplace should be your go-to. It's all about how much effort you're willing to put in. You snag great deals on undervalued items, then resell for profit.

First, you'll need to scout for popular items—furniture, tech gadgets, or sports gear are all great options. They tend to move fast and carry potential for solid margins. Remember, ease of sale matters. Just think, bulky goods may fetch a good price but can be a major hassle to ship.

Next, make your listings pop (it's not always as easy as you think!). Good photos and descriptions sell, but you also need to be unique. Price your items competitively to attract buyers but leave room for profit. Keep an eye on demand as what sells well now can change over time.

Lastly, communicate quickly and politely with potential buyers. It’s about making connections – after all, people are more likely to buy from someone they trust. And here’s a pro tip: frequent interactions boost your listings on Facebook's algorithm.

4. Start a Business

If you're looking to turn your $5,000 into $10,000, starting a business could be a terrific avenue.

Firstly, before diving in, you'll need to evaluate the risk versus potential profits. No business is without risk, but thorough planning can mitigate some threats.

Consider your passions and skills when brainstorming different business models. This could range from a service-based side hustle to an online store. The key is to find a niche with demand that you can meet uniquely or more effectively than existing competitors.

Launching a business isn't typically a “make money fast” strategy, but it can significantly boost your income when managed effectively. Remember, the aim is to increase your income sustainably, not just in the short term.

5. Invest in Commercial Real Estate with Realty Mogul

If you're looking to flip that $5,000, consider commercial real estate – a field known for its potential passive income and appreciation asset value. Realty Mogul offers a platform where you can start with as little as $5,000 – making it a great option.

Commercial Real Estate

Their system caters to both accredited and non-accredited investors, which is handy because that line between can be a big leap.

Here's how it may work for you: You invest your money into commercial properties that Realty Mogul manages, which could range from multi-family dwellings to retail spaces. The idea is you earn returns either through the income generated from the property or through its growth in value over time.

The returns on commercial real estate aren't always the largest, but you're investing for stability. Commercial properties are among the most stable asset class, making it more difficult to lose money, which is one reason I love it.

6. Buy Things to Rent Out

Investing in items that you can rent out is a savvy way to generate passive income. Your $5,000 can start a side hustle that brings in extra cash regularly.

You'll want to think about what's rentable and in demand. For instance, you could buy quality photography equipment. There's always someone needing gear for a wedding or event. Or consider tools – many folks prefer to rent for one-time home projects.

Remember to price competitively. What you charge should cover your costs and factor in wear and tear.

With smart choices and good management, you can make a fortune over time renting things out whether you want to flip $500 or $5,000.

7. Flip Domain Names

Flipping domain names can be a lucrative side hustle if you have $5,000 to invest.

Like finding a gem at a yard sale, purchasing a domain at a low price and selling it for more is the essence of this game. You’re reselling digital real estate that can be potentially worth thousands over time.

Start by researching which domains might be in demand. Look at trends and industries on the rise. Once you’ve got a few names in mind, check if they're available or being sold at a reasonable price. This initial step is vital for your potential profits.

The next phase is buying. Aim for domains that are short, memorable, and likely to be sought after. The $5,000 you have could buy one premium domain or several that are less expensive. I recommend that you diversify to spread your risk.

Lastly, when it’s time to sell, use websites like Flippa or list them privately. Domain flipping isn't an overnight success, so be patient for the profits to roll in. Remember, not every domain will sell immediately, but with strategic choices and a bit of luck, you could see a significant return on investment.

8. Consider Retail Arbitrage

In retail arbitrage, you snag bargains from local stores, thrift shops, or garage sales and resell them for a profit. Check out clearance sections or discount stores where items are often undervalued.

Platforms like Amazon and eBay are prime spots for flipping your finds. The trick is to identify products that are in demand.

Remember, shipping can chip away at profits. Calculate costs carefully to price your items competitively yet profitably. Specialty items sometimes fetch a higher margin, so keep an eye out for unique finds.

Retail arbitrage is a bit of a treasure hunt. With a keen eye and some hustle, you can spin secondhand steals into profits on popular marketplaces.

9. Start a Blog or Niche Website

Starting a blog or niche website is a solid strategy for flipping your $5,000 investment. Begin by identifying a market or subject you're knowledgeable about or have a passion for.

Once you've pinpointed your niche, create valuable content that caters to your audience. Remember, content is king, and it's the core of drawing traffic. With compelling content, you can attract visitors and transform your blog into a go-to resource within your niche.

Your blog can earn revenue through various streams like affiliate marketing, selling products, or display advertising. Stay up-to-date of trends and engage with your audience on social media to keep your content relevant and shareable.

Managing a niche website can become a lucrative side hustle leading to passive income over time. As your site grows, so does the potential to make more money, either through increased profits or by selling the website for a gain.

10. Flip Collectables or Antiques

Flipping collectibles and antiques can be a lucrative way to turn $5,000 into much more. The trick is knowing what to look for and where to find it. Your local thrift stores, flea markets, and auctions are treasure troves for items with resell potential.

When hunting for valuable pieces, keep an eye out for unique characteristics that could increase an item's value. After purchasing, selling platforms like eBay offer a vast audience for your antiques and collectibles.

Aim for high profit margins by buying low and selling high. Researching prices beforehand can give you an edge. And remember that the condition of the item matters because quality pieces usually fetch a better price.

Finally, patience is key. Sometimes, you might have to wait for the right buyer to come along to get the best profits. It's all part of the game when flipping antiques and collectibles.

11. Start an Etsy Business

Starting an Etsy shop can turn your $5,000 into a profitable venture, particularly if you're into crafts or handmade items.

Start by thinking about what you're passionate about making. Whether it's jewelry, art, or home decor, Etsy is a great platform for selling unique handmade goods.

Your initial investment might go toward materials and setting up your shop, but remember to keep some for shipping costs. Customers love quick and reliable shipping!

Finally, remember that Etsy is not just a side hustle; it's also a community. Engage with other sellers and buyers to learn and grow your brand. Success won't happen overnight, but with consistent effort, profits can follow.

Final Thoughts

So, what are the best ways to flip 5000 dollars?

I recommend sticking with proven methods like investing in real estate and stocks to keep things steady. You can also try starting a business or flipping things on Facebook Marketplace.

Forrest McCall

Forrest is passionate about helping others grow their passive income streams so they can reach financial freedom. He has been quoted in many popular finance publications including Business Insider, Bankrate, CNET Money, and more.