Topic: Question about Move-In Gifts

On Average, What dollar amount per new resident is in the budget for move-in gifts? I was having this discussion with a community manager and was curious.

I've seen anything from $10 to $25 per move-in, though one of the best and most useful gifts I think I ever saw was a magnetic notepad with pen that cost $1 each at the dollar store. However, I think it is critical to point out that if the apartment itself is not in top-notch move-in condition, any move-in gift will feel insulting to the new resident. I always recommend my clients survey their move-ins to monitor their experience as a better investment over gifts, because that all-important renewal decision is typically made in those first 2 weeks.

Hello! I have had the best luck with move-in gifts around the $15 mark. We had much success with 'Can You Imagine?' Your gifts come in a decorative box with a beautiful bow and your Community's information can be custom printed on the gift tags. They have other gifts, too. Check out canyouimagine.com. Let me know what you think.

Can I shed some light on this topic?

A couple of items that have been popular are the key chain flashlights, (under ten dollars). They use AAA batteries and keep on going. Great at night when you are fumbling with a lock in the dark. Your residents will be grateful every time they use it.



I also like elegantly executed logo items like carrying satchels that could be used for groceries or a gym bag. This could promote pride in the brand if done properly.

Avoid kitch; less is more. Whatever you do, for whatever price, do it well. Giving away items that break easily or are quickly used up compromises the gesture and could make a negative quality statement that you would want to avoid.

What about a fish+small aquarium or potted plant? Something to make the apartment feel like home right from the start.

one of the best ideas i've seen took the welcome/move-in gift on a different road. the resident still got the prerequisite basics - pen with the company logo, keychain, etc. but they also got a binder of local area info - local parks,. restaurants (with coupons), movie theaters, golf courses, etc. it also included a pre-fab shopping list for moving/cleaning supplies, etc. all the info they needed coming to a new area. they enjoyed having immediate info at their fingertips, and coupons for take-out on their first dinner night or two didn't hurt either.

This site "canyouimagine.com" is amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It has everything we have been looking for! Thanks for the suggestion!