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The process of buying a home can be stressful for many buyers, especially first time home buyers. Luckily, real estate agents have the expertise to help clients navigate the process to find their perfect home. The constant interaction between buyers and agents can also result in the formation of strong bonds. What better way to cement your friendship and business relationship with your client than with a small closing gift?
Your clients will surely appreciate the thought which may lead to referrals in the future. However, it’s critical to give a gift with no expectations from your client for additional business leads. A gift is strictly to show your appreciation and provide well wishes.
So, what on earth should you get your buyer? Seasoned agents may be familiar with the common closing gifts: plants/flowers, gift baskets, and champagne. While these are all excellent choices, there are other unique, thoughtful gifts that will prove memorable to your buyers.
The key to picking the perfect gift is to pay attention to your clients’ comments throughout the business relationship and consider what would be important to a new homeowner, whether they’re a repeat buyer or first time buyer. Figure out a budget for your gift as well. If your gift is under $25, you can typically write it off as a tax deduction. Gifts do not have to be costly if you put thought into why you chose them.
Make Mental Notes
As you get to know your clients, make mental notes of what they say. Small details can help you choose the perfect closing gift in the future. For example, did your clients fantasize about how they’d decorate the home during an open house? Perhaps they wanted a personalized welcome mat or envisioned a vase of flowers for their future table in the entryway. When you close your deal, you’ll have an arsenal of ideas to choose from.
Moving Situation
Are your clients moving from a dense metropolis to a suburban neighborhood? If so, they’re probably not used to having a real backyard. Decorations for flower beds and other aspects of a backyard will be much appreciated. Better yet, pack a classic woven picnic basket with a bottle of wine and snacks so they can enjoy the sunshine while taking in the view of their new house.
Similarly, buyers that have purchased a home in a new city can benefit from a thoughtful guide to local restaurants, museums, and activities. Don’t forget to add excitement to the gift by packaging it nicely with wrapping paper or a pretty ribbon.
Be Supportive
Closing the deal is just the beginning for your clients. They are now starting a new chapter in their lives and with this new chapter comes added stress. Moving trucks, heavy boxes, and misplaced items can quickly become a headache. Why not alleviate some of their stress? Don’t underestimate the power of carpet cleaning services or a one day session with a house cleaning service. Moving into a new home means countless boxes, pieces of furniture, and outdoor shoes will be cycling in and out of the house. Once moved in, cleaning services can have the house looking as clean as the same day it was purchased.
Similarly, a gift certificate to a nice restaurant is a forever useful gift. After a long day of unpacking boxes and organizing (not to mention, installing appliances and buying new groceries), a home-cooked meal can sound out of the question. A fine dining experience can provide a much needed break, some relaxation, and an opportunity to celebrate the wonderful real estate agent that helped them find their perfect home.