However, if you're wondering what type of gift to send your Realtor that will adequately reflect your gratitude, here are my top 10 closing gift suggestions. The first gift -- and I can speak for all Realtors -- is absolutely the most welcomed and appreciated present from a client, plus it doesn't cost one red cent.
1) Referrals
The reason real estate agents don't turn into one-hit-wonders and crawl off to die somewhere is because they receive referrals from satisfied clients. Referrals are the backbone of an agent's business. Without referrals, agents are scratching in the dirt for clients. Don't turn your agent into a pullet. Speak up. If you found value, pass it on. Referrals are the gold standard of gifts.
2) Gourmet Gift Baskets
Agents rarely have time for meals. If anything is going to be placed on the back burner doing a busy day, it's food. Gourmet gift baskets are a mix of edible delights such as nuts, crackers, cheese, cookies, fruit, candy, chocolate, baked goods and more.
3) Gift Certificates
Problems selecting a perfect Realtor closing gift? Try gift certificates! These are available in almost any denomination and can be issued from online stores or from retail outfits such as music stores, department stores, book stores, gas stations or local restaurants. Restaurants are an excellent choice because not every agent is lucky enough to have a spouse to cook dinner for them.
4) Flowers
Everybody loves flowers. Especially when the delivery is unexpected. The choices are abundant, from boxed roses to seasonal floral bouquets arranged in unique vases to exotic plants such as miniature palm trees or bonsai. Best of all, they can be delivered for you on the same day ordered.
5) Spice Sets & Condiments
Quality spices, herbs and specialty condiments such as hot sauces from the Caribbean or barbecue sauces are delightful Realtor closing gifts to receive because they are useful and unique. After your agent samples fresh, quality gourmet spices, stale grocery-store brands will never hold a candle to your gift.
6) Wines
Buy Two-Bottle Cabernet Sauvignon Gift Set
If your Realtor appreciates fine wine, a bottle of wine is a thoughtful, perfect gift. Some great selections include Portugal ports, Chateauneuf-du-Pape from the French Southern Rhone, California Cabernet, Italian Pinot Grigio or Australian Shiraz. If not wine, consider teas or coffee gift sets.
7) Jewelry & Trinkets
Personalized Silver Money Clip for Men
OK, nobody is ever going to give me a diamond tennis bracelet, nor would I expect anything so extravagant, but pins, brooches, charms or sliders are appropriate. Men like jewelry, too. Choose from cuff links to key chains to money clips. Also consider valets or jewelry boxes.
8) Digital Picture Frames
For your techie Realtor. Not just your ordinary picture frame. Digital picture frames contain an on-board memory that holds dozens of digital photographs and can be set to display them on a slide show. Battery operated or plug-in adapter.
9) Custom Engraved Gifts
Buy an Engraved Personalized Business Card Case
You can engrave or monogram a huge variety of items suitable for Realtor closing gifts, from candle sets to pens to desktop clocks or coffee mugs. A few catchy phrases are: "To My Favorite Realtor," "Thank You For Selling My Home" or "Without [insert name], I'd be Homeless."
10) Collectibles
If you know your Realtor harbors a passion for a particular hobby or interest, a figurine, sculpture, print or novelty item reflecting that hobby or interest would show personal consideration. For example, in case any of my clients are reading this, I collect miniature cats (figurines, not live) and would be thrilled to receive such a token of appreciation.
