It’s time for the annual debate – should landlords give holiday gifts to their tenants. While some consider it completely unnecessary – this is a business, after all, and gifts are for family and friends, others consider it an essential pillar of good business. They claim it is no different than when a business hosts a customer appreciation day.  

There are points to both sides, of course, but appreciation is the keyword. When you show appreciation to your tenants, they appreciate you.   

If you choose the gift route, don’t jump in blindly – 

• • Consider what you know about your tenant. Are they single, a couple, a family? Do they have pets? What is their occupation? 

• • Determine your budget. Choose an amount you can reasonably afford – in relation to your rental income, and then stick to it. 

Personalizing your gift to the tenant is nice, but if you don’t have the time or have multiple tenants, choose a more neutral route.   

General gift suggestions: 

• • Mugs with Starbucks card, a box of assorted teas, or hot chocolate mixes. 
  • Sweet treats – From kid snacks for families to gourmet chocolates, you have a lot of choices. 
  • Salty snacks – Honey-mustard pretzels, flavored popcorns, Chex mix, or tortilla chips with salsa are just a few ideas. 
  • Fruit – an assortment of kinds is pleasing 
  • Potted plants – choose ones that are hardy and require minimal care 
  • Blanket throws – choose neutral tones  
  • Doormats – again, go with neutral, unless you know the tenant’s style well 
  • Kitchen towels – consider holiday prints if you give your gift early in the month 
  • Notepads and pen sets – something everyone uses. 

 Another hot item is gift cards: 

• • Fast food for quick pickups or restaurants for a dine-in meal 
  • The local grocery chain  
  • Walmart or Amazon 
  • Popular local events 
  • State Park Passes 

 The big winner: 

Some landlords choose to gift a deduction on January’s rent. It’s a tight month for many as they face all those Christmas bills, and even if they stayed within their budget, who doesn’t appreciate a break in the month’s rent. How much you give depends again on what you can afford and the monthly amount of the rent.  

Which side of the debate will claim you this year? Whether or not you gift your tenants, find ways to show them you appreciate having their ‘business.’ Keeping tenants happy means keeping tenants. 

Are you looking for someone to take care of the details for you? We offer a full range of property management services tailored to you as an investor, homeowner, or landlord. We don’t give you the run around with different departments or points of contact. You will work with a dedicated property manager that knows you, your property, and your residents. They will handle all the day-to-day management of your property, and they are available to provide expert guidance when needed.