Best of 2016: 22 of the Absolute Best Real Estate Closing Gift Ideas

We're continuing an annual tradition of counting down our top 10 articles of the year. The following article was originally published back in June and is #4 in our countdown. See #5 here.

For some people, buying gifts seems to come easily. But for many of us well intentioned gift-givers, it's a challenge to find the best, most thoughtful item to mark a special occasion.

As a REALTOR®, you often have opportunities to give gifts to your clients who have purchased their new home. It's a lovely way to thank them for their business, remain memorable, and hopefully secure more repeat and referral business from them!

If you're challenged in the creative gift-giving department, we're here to help you with a list of the best real estate closing gift ideas.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a gift for your real estate client.

1. What has your client revealed about themselves? Over the time you've been working together, did your client mention that they are a vegetarian? Don't drink alcohol? A gift card to a steak house or a bottle of wine would not be the best fit! Keep notes in your real estate CRM about your client's likes and dislikes so you can refresh your memory when it's time to give them a gift!
2. It's not all about you. Sure, it's always wise to include your name, logo and contact information on items when you can. But try not to make yourself the focus of the gift. A mug emblazoned with your headshot is likely to end up in the attic. Make your branding choices tasteful and let the gift shine for itself!
3. Give your gift in person whenever possible. It can even be several weeks after the closing of the home when your client is more settled in their new place. By presenting your happy client with a gift in person, you're strengthening your relationship with them. It's also a terrific time to gently mention you'd appreciate any referral business they can offer!

Remember that the best gifts are from the heart. Not every one of these suggestions will suit every client you have. Now, here are the top picks for the best real estate closing gift ideas:

Magazine Subscription

Commissioned New Home Art

Personalized "Just Moved" Cards

Sponsor the Catering for a Housewarming Party

Monogrammed Napkins

Tickets to a Local Attraction

3 Hours with a Professional Organizer or House Keeping Services

Spa Gift Certificate

Key Organizer and Multi-Tool

Personalized Address Labels

Birdfeeder

Costco Membership

Take Your Client Out for Lunch

Personalized Pillow

Moving Day Survival Kit

A Tree to Plant in the Yard

A Board Game Set

Have Balloons Sent for the Kids Rooms

A Set of Spices/Seasoning for the Kitchen

Reproduction of an Old Town Map

Sodastream Soda Maker

 

Have a locksmith re-key the house

If you choose to give a closing gift to your real estate client, that's not where your relationship ends! The best gift you can offer your client is your expert service and ongoing relationship.

Keep in touch regularly with your monthly e-Newsletter and offer them well wishes on their birthday or home move-in anniversary.

To view the original article, visit the IXACT Contact blog.