If you don't want to get a job but do want acquire L$, you can use the LindeX currency exchange to exchange real (like US$) currency for Linden dollars (L$). This can make it a lot quicker to get (land, goods) what you want. Please notice that there are certain billing and trading limits.
I've (Torley) noticed this seems un-obvious to some newcomers, so I'm pointing it out for your benefit.