We have all heard about the importance of investing. For most people, that means investing in things like stocks, bonds, CDs, and other tried-and-true methods. These remain great ways to invest your money, but that doesn’t mean they are the only ways to invest your money.
There are plenty of other ways to invest your money if you’re looking for something more unique, inspiring, and if you’re interested in being more hands-on.
Auto Dealership Acquisitions
With a few exceptions, cars aren’t a good investment. Most depreciate the second you drive them off the lot, but that’s not the case when it comes to the dealership itself.
Automotive private equity involves investing in a portfolio that contains auto dealerships from across the United States. With dealerships selling thousands of cars for tens of thousands of dollars, and sometimes more, it can be an effective way to invest and see a return on your money.
It’s also a great idea if you want your investments to be personally important. If you love cars, you’ll be more motivated to keep tabs on a portfolio that includes auto dealerships. You’ll likely have more fun investing too.
Buy Into a Franchise
Buying a franchise isn’t a simple or easy investment. A franchise requires you to purchase a business, which means managing day-to-day operations. But buying into an existing franchise can be a great alternative to opening a new business. All the processes have been proven and are already in place. Not to mention, you’ve got name recognition the moment you open your doors.
You don’t necessarily have to be directly involved in the franchise you own. You can always hire a team to manage the franchise for you. You can also invest in a proven franchise portfolio, which opens up the ability for you to invest in franchises internationally.
Peer-to Peer Lending
If you want to feel like you’re making a difference while you make money on your investment, you should consider peer-to-peer lending.
Peer-to-peer lending cuts out the middleman, enabling you to lend directly to individuals who need the money to start and run businesses. With multiple platforms to invest on, you’re able to lend your money to people close to home, or you’re able to send your money to far-flung countries where it’s really needed.
There are many others you can help with your money and get a return on your investment.
You could:
- Help link doctors who offer financing programs with patients who need it
- Have a hand in home improvement loans and auto financing
- Help people pay off credit card debt and get a lower interest rate
There are also opportunities to be more involved in the process, too. Depending on which avenue you choose, you could also act as a mentor in addition to offering funds.
Gold and Jewelry
Gold is traditionally a good investment, as it increases in value year after year. But if you aren’t the type to stack gold bars in a post office box, jewelry can be a fun way to invest your money.
Investing in jewelry does require some knowledge and careful strategizing, as some gems and jewelry are less likely to increase in value over time compared to others.
Choose chunky gold or platinum jewelry, as well as rare and expensive gemstones. Look for high carat counts and high quality to get the most bang for your gemstone buck.
Raw gems and minerals can increase in value too. They’re a great choice for those who would rather display something beautiful in their homes instead of wearing it.
Vacation Rentals
Buying a vacation rental can be a great investment. It can afford you more flexibility than traditional rental properties, which are a popular type of investment. You’re able to rent a vacation property when it’s convenient for you. You can also reserve certain weeks to enjoy the vacation rental with your family.
You can still make money on vacation rentals if you don’t own one. You can buy into a vacation rental portfolio or invest in vacation rentals like you would a stock.
No matter how you choose to invest, strive to invest in rentals in places that excite you. It will make investing your money more enjoyable.
Art
Art is also a fun way to invest your money, but it does require a lot of discretion and skill, as some artwork is more likely to increase in value over time compared to others.
You don’t automatically have to dish out hundreds of thousands of dollars on a well-known artist to get the most out of your investment. It can actually be even better to buy pieces from an emerging artist. You’re more likely to get a larger return on your investment. Not to mention, you will be supporting an artist to continue creating beautiful works.
Yourself
Investing isn’t necessarily just buying stuff or putting your money in a portfolio. Investing in yourself can be one of the best ways to use your money.
Investing in yourself can boost your confidence, but it also has the ability to open up new career opportunities. When you invest in gaining new knowledge, you are more likely to move up the ranks, make more money, and finally land your dream job.
Some of the best ways to invest in yourself include:
- Find a mentor
- Hire a coach
- Attend networking events
- Go back to school
- Get an endorsement or certificate
- Take a course
Don’t discount investing in yourself in other ways too, like personal growth or a new hobby. You never know how it will impact your finances, but you can be sure that it will impact your life in meaningful ways.
You don’t have to choose stocks and bonds if you want to invest your money. There are many interesting and unique ways to invest your money. When you choose one or more ways that are meaningful to you, investing is more fun, which means you’re more likely to do it.