One thing I have done to get a bit more money, but not too much, is to create a Sim and move them into a house. Later on I made another Sim, and moved them in. With the combined amount, I was able to move them into a bigger house. It is a great way to get money without the cheating.
I do use Rosebud, and Motherlode in my other save files. The one I mentioned is one I want to keep cheat free to earn medals.