How a 30-Year-Old Turned Her Last $2,000 into a $100,000 Side Hustle and Found Joy in Being Her Own Boss
How a 30-Year-Old Turned $2,000 into a Successful Cleaning Business
Source: CNBC Article
Starting the Journey
Initial Investment and Motivation
- Anna-Marie Ortiz launched her business, Cool Aunt Cleaners, in July 2023 with her last $2,000 in savings.
- Fueled by a desire for independence, she aimed to create a service catering to young professionals.
Early Challenges
- The first month generated only $2,595, but Ortiz persisted, eventually transitioning to focus on her business full-time by November 2023.
- She navigated early supply costs, pricing strategies, and team management challenges.
Business Growth
Revenue and Operations
- By 2024, the business is projected to exceed $100,000 in revenue, averaging around $10,000 a month.
- Ortiz learned to manage fluctuating revenue and staffing needs, initially employing four cleaners before scaling back.
Strategic Positioning
- Catering to a youthful market, Ortiz’s branding and targeted local marketing helped distinguish her from traditional cleaning services.
- She avoided online advertising initially, preferring to build her clientele through grassroots efforts like flyers and word-of-mouth.
Financial Management
Personal Financial Strategy
- Ortiz earns a salary of $29,000 per year, significantly lower than her previous job earnings but more fulfilling.
- Heavy spending in relocating to Portland led to $14,000 in credit card debt, which she is actively reducing.
Budget Breakdown
- Monthly expenses include:
- Housing: $1,350
- Transportation: $380
- Credit card repayments: $4,537
Future Aspirations
Expansion Goals
- Ortiz aims to expand Cool Aunt Cleaners beyond Portland, targeting a seven-figure revenue model.
- Plans include investing in software for client management and launching digital marketing campaigns.
Vision for Impact
- Drawing from her challenging upbringing, Ortiz is determined to build generational wealth and establish financial independence for her family.
- She finds purpose in her entrepreneurial journey, prioritizing the flexibility and autonomy that comes with being her own boss.
