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Closing Gift Etiquette: Making a Lasting Impression

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Alec Wilkins

Alec Wilkins

Photographer, Drone Pilot, Writer, Innovator
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In the world of real estate, where client-agent relationships are built on trust, professionalism, and personal rapport, the exchange of closing gifts has become a time-honored tradition. These gifts symbolize the culmination of a successful home buying or selling journey and serve as a token of appreciation from the real estate agent to the client. While the exchange of closing gifts is a widespread practice, the true significance lies in not just choosing the right gift but also in adhering to proper closing gift etiquette. This etiquette plays a pivotal role in making a lasting impression on your clients, which can result in positive referrals, strengthened relationships, and overall client satisfaction.

Closing Gift Best Practices

1. Wait to give gifts after the closing appointment.

It’s essential to give closing gifts after the deal has officially closed. This ensures that the gift is seen as a gesture of goodwill and appreciation rather than an incentive during the transaction.

2. Provide a gift receipt with the items you present to your clients.

A gift receipt is an invaluable inclusion with your closing gift. It allows your clients to exchange or return the gift if, for any reason, it doesn’t align with their preferences. While your intention may be to express gratitude, the last thing you want is for your thoughtful gift to become a burden for your clients.

3. Avoid personalized gifts that cannot be returned (unless you know they will love it).

Personalized gifts can be a lovely touch, but they should be reserved for situations where you are confident about your client’s preferences. Avoid the risk of gifting something that may not align with their taste.

4. Avoid gifts that are humorous, political, or make a statement.

Real estate transactions can be stressful, and it’s essential to keep your closing gift apolitical and free from humor or controversial statements. The aim is to create a positive impression, not one that can potentially divide.

5. Don’t expect great fanfare over your gift.

The act of giving closing gifts should come from a place of genuine gratitude, not a desire for recognition. While it’s wonderful if your clients express their appreciation, the focus should always be on the thought and effort you’ve invested in the gift rather than its monetary value.

Closing Gift Best Practices

Closing gifts are more than just a token of appreciation; they play a vital role in nurturing client-agent relationships. A well-thought-out closing gift has the power to convey gratitude, build trust, and foster lasting bonds with your clients. According to the National Association of Realtors, a significant portion of clients, approximately 49% of buyers and 56% of sellers, find their real estate agents through referrals. A carefully chosen closing gift can make your clients more inclined to recommend your services to friends and family, thus expanding your client base.

The timing and presentation of the gift are crucial. Your closing gift should be presented personally, and, if possible, during a special moment, such as a housewarming party or the final walkthrough. A handwritten note expressing your appreciation adds a personal touch to the presentation, showing that you’ve put thought into your gesture.

Choosing the Right Closing Gift

Selecting the perfect closing gift can be a challenging task, as it involves several considerations. Here are the key factors to keep in mind when choosing the ideal closing gift:

Consideration of the client's preferences:

Your closing gift should reflect your understanding of your client’s preferences. If you’ve worked closely with your clients, you likely have insights into their tastes. For instance, if they have a penchant for art, a carefully selected piece of local art or photography could be an excellent choice. If they are culinary enthusiasts, kitchen gadgets or cookware may be appreciated.

Budgetary considerations:

The budget for closing gifts can vary significantly among real estate agents. It’s crucial to find a gift that feels valuable to the client rather than one that is necessarily expensive. The key is to strike a balance between showing appreciation and staying within your financial limits.

Meaningful and memorable gifts:

A closing gift should be something that clients will remember and cherish. It should resonate with the experience they’ve had throughout the home buying or selling process. Consider a gift that is not only practical but also emotionally significant.
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10 Perfect Examples of Great Closing Gifts

To help you navigate the often perplexing world of closing gifts, here are ten examples of fantastic closing gifts that are both thoughtful and memorable:
Customized Home Décor: 

  1. Personalized items like custom-made throw pillows, wall art, or unique home accessories can add a special, individual touch to their new space.
  2. Gift Cards to Local Restaurants or Retailers: A practical and versatile gift, offering your clients the opportunity to explore their new neighborhood, dine out, or shop for their home.
  3. Personalized Closing Documents Keepsake: Commemorate the home buying or selling experience with a personalized document framed as a keepsake for their new home.
  4. Housewarming Plants or Flowers: Adding life to their new home with a vibrant plant or a beautiful bouquet is a gesture of warmth and care.
  5. Subscription Services: Consider offering subscription services such as home cleaning, streaming, or food delivery to make their daily life more convenient and enjoyable.
  6. Local Art or Photography: Support local artists while gifting your clients with a piece of artwork that not only adds charm to their home but also highlights the local culture and scenery.
  7. Kitchen Gadgets or Cookware: Ideal for clients who love to cook, high-quality kitchen gadgets or cookware can be a practical and appreciated gift.
  8. Customized Welcome Mat: A warm and inviting gesture that greets them every time they step into their new home.
  9. Home Improvement Store Gift Card: Perfect for clients planning to make changes to their new property, a gift card to a home improvement store can be a practical choice.
  10. A Donation to a Charity in the Client’s Name: A heartfelt and charitable gesture that not only expresses gratitude but also leaves a positive impact on their community. You can choose a charity that resonates with your client’s values and interests.
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Budget Considerations

Closing gifts come in a wide range of budgets, from relatively modest to more extravagant options. The key is to find a gift that feels valuable to the client rather than one that is necessarily expensive. There are several ways to make a lasting impression without breaking the bank:

  • Bulk Purchases: Consider buying items in bulk or working with local businesses to secure discounts on gift items. This can help you stay within budget while offering quality gifts.
  • Personalization: Personalization doesn’t always have to be expensive. A small, personalized item can carry significant meaning without costing a fortune.
  • Handwritten Notes: A handwritten thank-you note adds a personal touch to your closing gift without incurring additional expenses.
  • Local Partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses to offer discounts or promotional items. This not only supports local enterprises but can also provide cost-effective gift options.
  • DIY Options: If you’re creatively inclined, consider crafting your own closing gifts. Handmade items, whether they are candles, soaps, or other crafts, can be both budget-friendly and meaningful.
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Wrapping it Up

In conclusion, the exchange of closing gifts is not just a formality but an opportunity to create a lasting impression and foster strong client-agent relationships. By following best practices, carefully selecting the right gift, and considering budget constraints, real estate agents can ensure that their closing gifts are both meaningful and memorable. It’s important to recognize that the value of the gift is not solely monetary; it lies in the thought, care, and effort that goes into choosing a gift that resonates with your client. As you close another successful real estate transaction, remember the power of a well-thought-out closing gift and the lasting impact it can have on your clients’ lives. Share your own closing gift stories and inspire others to make their clients feel truly appreciated.

In the world of real estate, the exchange of closing gifts has become a time-honored tradition. These gifts symbolize the culmination of a successful home buying or selling journey and serve as a token of appreciation from the real estate agent to the client. While the exchange of closing gifts is a widespread practice, the true significance lies in not just choosing the right gift but also in adhering to proper closing gift etiquette. This etiquette plays a pivotal role in making a lasting impression on your clients, which can result in positive referrals, strengthened relationships, and overall client satisfaction.

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Frequently Asked Closing Gift Etiquette Questions

A closing gift is a token of appreciation given by real estate agents as client gifts upon the successful completion of a real estate transaction. This gesture is important because it helps build a lasting relationships and leaves a positive impression.

Popular closing gift ideas include a personalized housewarming gift, gift cards to local businesses, custom art or decor, and practical items like toolkits or kitchen gadgets. Check out this article to learn about some of the best closing gifts.

The best time to present a closing gift is at the closing of the real estate transaction, but it can also be given during a housewarming party or as a follow-up surprise.
There’s no fixed budget, but typically, real estate agents spend between $50 to $200 on closing gifts. The amount can vary based on the client’s expectations and your budget.
Yes, personalizing a closing gift with your client’s name, a special message, or their new address is a great way to make it more meaningful.
Yes, always consider the client’s preferences and avoid gifts that could be seen as too personal or controversial. It’s essential to be respectful of cultural and religious differences.
In such cases, it’s safe to choose a universally appealing gift, such as a high-quality kitchen gadget or a local gift card.
Using your branding on a closing gift is acceptable, but be subtle. You want the gift to be about your client, not self-promotion.
Present the gift in person with a heartfelt thank-you note, and take a photo to share on social media or in your portfolio to showcase your commitment to client satisfaction.
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