L.B.
His commissions are his gift, really - this a business relationship - he profits from it. No gifts necessary.
Any thoughts? He's in his early 60s, has been exceptionally helpful to us in the process of searching for a house, preparing our house for sale, and buying investment property.
I don't know much about his personal interests, etc.
He's gone above and beyond our expectations for a realtor, especially in finding us high quality and low cost contractors and suppliers to do improvements/updates on our home. He's literally saved us at least $10k in costs, and has been exceptionally patient with us as we changed our search parameters multiple times. In the past few years we have had such terrible experiences with contractors and realtors that he's been a welcomed breath of fresh air.
Yes, a referral would be great, and maybe some online reviews, and I will do a Starbucks gift card as well.
His commissions are his gift, really - this a business relationship - he profits from it. No gifts necessary.
I would not give a gift. Don't feel it is appropriate. He should be thankful for your business
A card with a handwritten, heartfelt thank you.
The commission he's earning from your business is enough of a gift.
I thought it should be just the opposite. You are giving him business. He should be gifting you!
One of the best presents for a realtor is the referral of family and friends and acquaintances for their services. Have you noticed if he has any hobbies or any community groups he supports? You could buy a gift card to a sporting good store or to a popular restaurant in your area.
Wine. Most people like it or can use it at some point in time and if they have no use for it it is probably the only gift that people do not care if it is regifted.
I have been in sales for over twenty years and I never, ever would expect a gift from a client. I make money off of them!
I would not have thought to give a realtor a gift but if you want to maybe make something homemade, like a jar of apple butter or chocolate covered peanut butter or a homemade hot sauce etc. Depends on what you're good at.
Ours gifts us a fruit basket (the apple and pear collection from Harry & Davids) every year. They do the same for my parents who also used their services. It serves to keep them fresh in our mind. We return the favor by making referrals.
Best,
F. B.
My sil is a realtor and yes, referrals are the best! But gift cards to like a Starbucks or somewhere helps when they are taking potential clients out.
Or a nice coffee travel mug or something for their car because they do spend a lot of time in the car!
It's thoughtful that you want to get him a gift but I'm not sure that ethics will allow him to accept a gift. Some professions won't allow acceptance of gifts
Is he working as an independent realtor or is he working for an agency? If he's working alone, that's one thing, you might be able to give him a gift. However, if he's working for an agency like Windermere, I suggest you call his office and ask if he's allowed to accept gifts. It would be mighty awkward if you bought a gift just to have him turn it down.
If you are able to give a gift, how about a Starbucks gift card? He's probably on the road a lot, and being able to stop for coffee occasionally might be nice. Some of the Starbucks where I live even have sandwich and salads for a light lunch.
Good luck with whatever you do.
I wouldn't do a gift for a realtor, he's making a bundle off you already and it's his job. Speaking from personal experience, my dad is a professional and always received gifts from clients for the holidays and while the thought was appreciated, since most of the gifts were food or drink based and he is a picky eater lots were wasted. A simple "thanks" should more than suffice.