Effective Property Business Ideas for Students to Earn Extra Income

How can students run a property business effectively? Earning extra income while still in college is not impossible. Starting a business as a student helps sharpen your business instincts and prepares you for real-world entrepreneurship after graduation.

One of the most reliable and profitable options to increase your allowance, or even help pay for tuition, is the property business. Property is not only about short-term income; when managed well, it can become a long-term financial asset.

As a student, part of the intellectual community, you naturally have a strong social position and credibility. This advantage can open doors to various business opportunities, including property.

Types of Property Businesses Suitable for Students

If you are interested in starting a property business while studying, here are several property business models that students can realistically apply:

1. Buying Property and Reselling It

Students who are new to the property business should not be afraid to start early. The earlier you begin, the higher your potential success in the future.

One of the simplest strategies is buying property at a low price and reselling it at a higher price or at market value. This method works best if you already have some capital.

You can increase the property’s value by renovating or adding simple design improvements, which can significantly raise the selling price.

Property listings can be found through:

• Online platforms and websites
• Newspapers
• Student networks and communities

Once improved, the property can be sold via online marketplaces, which are often more effective due to their wider audience reach.

2. Rental Property Mediator (Lease Broker)

Another popular property business for students is becoming a rental property mediator. This model is already common in large cities and widely used by students.

You can connect new students or newcomers with property owners who rent out houses or apartments. In return, you receive a commission fee.

In cities such as Jakarta, Cimahi, and Yogyakarta, student mediators typically earn around IDR 100,000 per successful referral.

Key steps before starting as a rental mediator:

• Contact property owners and request permission to act as a mediator
• Propose a mutually beneficial partnership
• Survey the property, write a clear description, and take quality photos
• Promote listings via social media (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter) or property groups

Your target market is broad, including students, employees, migrants, and families looking for rentals.

3. Renting Out Houses or Boarding Rooms (Kost)

In this model, students become the actual property owners, renting out houses or boarding rooms.

Although this requires significant capital, the profits can be substantial—especially if the property is located near campuses or office areas.

To start:

• Seek soft loans from family
• Propose profit-sharing partnerships with investors
• Ensure a clear financial plan to maintain long-term sustainability

4. Freelance Property Agent

Students can also work as freelance property agents without binding contracts. This allows flexibility so you can still focus on your studies.

You earn income through sales commissions, which are often quite attractive—even for part-time work.

5. Property Development (Housing Projects)

Another advanced option is housing development, where students act as small-scale developers.

This business requires:

• Large capital
• Careful planning
• Guidance from experienced professionals

However, if executed correctly, property development offers fast return on investment and high profit potential.

Tips for Success in the Property Business for Students

While a student’s main responsibility is to study and build academic competence, starting a business early, especially in property, can greatly improve future success.

Here are key success tips for students entering the property business:

• Strong determination
• Ability to recognize and seize opportunities
• Consistency and discipline
• Persistence and resilience

Running a property business as a student is not only possible—it can be highly profitable when done strategically. From reselling properties and becoming a rental mediator to freelance agency work and development projects, there are many options you can start even before graduation.

With the right mindset, planning, and persistence, property can become a powerful income source and long-term investment for students.

Download the Transfez App Today

Transfez helps you send money abroad quickly, affordably, and securely. For businesses, Transfez Bisnis simplifies international vendor payments. Whether you’re paying overseas staff, suppliers, or supporting a family member studying or working abroad Transfez is here to help.  Available on Android and iOS.