Chasing a solid 10% return may sound like wishful thinking, but it’s surprisingly achievable with the right approach. Smart investors strike a balance between risk and patience rather than betting big overnight. It takes discipline, more than luck. So, if you’re ready to aim higher without reckless moves, check out these ten strategies that help make steady 10% gains possible.
Peer-To-Peer Lending Pays Premium Yields
Returns between 7% to 11% aren’t uncommon when investors fund loans through vetted platforms. Tools like LendingClub automate reinvestments and spread risk across borrowers. Plus, prime borrower pools keep defaults low. With careful selection, peer lending can become a dependable stream of passive income, especially for investors who enjoy tracking their results.
REITs Offer Rental Profits Without Tenants
REITs turn real estate into an income-generating asset without handing you a set of keys. Required to distribute most of their profits, these trusts yield 4–8% returns before even accounting for appreciation. Tech-forward sectors, such as data centers, also perform exceptionally well. So, pick individual REIT stocks or go broad with ETFs and stay diversified.
Franchise Ownership Generates Cash Flow
Running a Subway or Ace Hardware can yield returns between 8% and 12% after expenses. Popular brands reduce the risk of launching solo, while some operators utilize turnkey systems that streamline day-to-day tasks. With SBA loans covering a big chunk of startup costs, franchise ownership has become surprisingly accessible.
Covered Calls Boost Stock Income
If you own stable stocks, writing covered calls can stack extra income on top. This strategy thrives in sideways markets, earning 1–2% monthly for disciplined traders. Funds like QYLD automate the process, further making it beginner-friendly. It’s one of the few ways to turn holding stock into a cash machine.
Private Notes Secure Higher Interest
When investors fund private lending deals—often in real estate—they typically earn yields between 8% and 12%. These notes are usually backed by assets like homes or commercial property. With shorter terms, capital returns faster than traditional bonds. For qualified investors, they also offer strong returns with a layer of security built in.
Equipment Leasing Yields Predictable Payments
Businesses need trucks, medical scanners, or bakery ovens, and not everyone buys outright. By funding leased equipment, investors earn 8–12% in fixed monthly payments. Equipment is typically insured and collateralized, so missed payments don’t mean total loss. Demand stays strong across industries that rely on reliable tools.
Crowdfunded Real Estate Pools Buying Power
Investors can now own slivers of large apartment complexes or office buildings, thanks to real estate crowdfunding platforms. Average yields range from 8–10% annually. These services vet each property and distribute payments. With diversification across locations and property types, returns grow steadily without major headaches.
High-Yield Corporate Bonds Offer Risk-Adjusted Gains
These bonds offer returns of 5–9% by investing in companies with lower credit ratings. Bond funds balance the risk by holding dozens of issuers across sectors. While yields are higher than government bonds, defaults have steadily declined. It’s a strategic move for those seeking a better yield without incurring excessive risk.
Small Business Lending Earns Big Margins
Startups and small enterprises often need quick capital, and they’re willing to pay for it. Direct loans through vetted platforms can yield returns of 10–15%, mainly when spread across multiple borrowers. With some backed by personal guarantees, these investments offer strong returns for those who don’t mind a hands-on portfolio.
International Dividend Funds Tap Global Payouts
Looking outside, the U.S. opens up stable companies in Europe and Asia that pay reliable dividends. Expect annual returns in the 4%–6% bracket, with ETFs making it easy to tap into markets far beyond your own. Global exposure enhances resilience to market shifts and leverages long-standing dividend champions with built-in currency diversification.
