@Catregen wrote:
What would you say is your number one rule for what NOT to do when mystery shopping?
I have two children and two parents that I care for. I've just found out that my special needs children are eligible for a private school that will change their lives. Starting in September, I'll need to make $20,000 annually to cover the cost of their tuition. I have mystery shopped over the past few years to make Christmas money and to get out of the house, but now, it will be my JOB. I have never been more motivated to accomplish something in my life. I will accept your advice, habits and challenges, and anything else you want to share with me.
@Niner wrote:
If I was in your situation, I would get a part-time job with a guaranteed income in addition, to make sure you are clearing 20k. That's after tax, and I would not rely on hoping to make 20k plus the amount to cover taxes, so 30k mystery shopping in fees? It seems like too much of a risk. Maybe do some merchandising and demos?
@Niner wrote:
If I was in your situation, I would get a part-time job with a guaranteed income in addition, to make sure you are clearing 20k. That's after tax, and I would not rely on hoping to make 20k plus the amount to cover taxes, so 30k mystery shopping in fees? It seems like too much of a risk. Maybe do some merchandising and demos?
I make that much.@Niner wrote:
And you think she can make this much mystery shopping? I am a bit skeptical about $60/hr mystery shopping.
@SoCalMama wrote:
I make that much.@Niner wrote:
And you think she can make this much mystery shopping? I am a bit skeptical about $60/hr mystery shopping.
You can’t make it doing fine dining for Coyle though.
Your choice of shops should depend on what your goal is.
Is your goal to experience a different lifestyle? Then do high end restaurants for $15 fees and resorts for $150 fees.
Is your goal to make a lot of money? Then knock out 20 gas stations in a day paired up with whatever simple bonuses jobs you add to the route. Perhaps do a video and park your car in various parking garages all over the city or pretend to rent an apartment 5 times in a day? Working efficiently I can make $60 an hour on any given day. It’s not all glamorous work, but it has paid my bills for 20 years now.
We're frugal where it doesn't matter, but don't mind spending money where it does. I'm with you on the kid thing. They don't really need a lot to be happy except for your time. Annual passes to places make great Christmas presents and they last the whole year through. Pair the purchase up with a mystery shop and it's even better.@sandyf wrote:
I like the "frugal" advice from Shop et al. I have been frugal all my life. It is a lifestyle choice i guess made long before anyone coined that phrase but I actually have fun finding inexpensive and free ways to do things. It is much easier in a large city since there are so many free entertainment opportunities but just going out in the world of outdoors with the kids is free and if they are not spoiled and jaded by having things that cost lots of money at their fingertips that is often the most fun for kids. We went for fast food as a treat, not as a meal option on a regular basis. I am always seeing families at restaurants with each 3-6 year old having a full plate meal and leaving behind 90% of the food. Check and see what you can cut back on.