As a Bridgeport landlord, you know that quality tenants are hard to find — and are even harder to keep. To establish good relations with your tenants, a simple gesture would be to give them an appreciation gift. Keeping your tenants happy might take some effort but happy tenants are more likely to take care of your rental property, pay rent on time, and stay longer in your rental home. Even a simple holiday gift will let them know how much you appreciate them and want them to stay.
Your renters will appreciate a tenant gift that is useful and appropriate for their particular situation. The usual housewarming gifts tend to also be the best tenant gifts as they are pleasing to almost everyone. Some gourmet cookies and a bottle of wine could go a long way in building rapport with your tenants. A small houseplant, thank-you card, or a set of monogrammed coasters are also some gift ideas that would be useful to your tenants.
If you don’t feel like giving your tenants a traditional housewarming gift, there are many other options for you. Most tenants would welcome a free property upgrade as a gift. Installing USB ports or some smart devices will not only make your rental property more comfortable for your current tenants but it will also make it attractive to future tenants as well. Even a video doorbell or smart thermostat will make your tenant happy and also increase the value of your property. It is an investment that will pay off in multiple ways.
Other tenant gift ideas are less tangible but no less appreciated. If you have multiple tenants in the same town, you can host a fun event for them, like a free movie night or gathering so your tenants can also meet and enjoy each other’s company. Another helpful gift would be a service such as water or furnace filter delivery. If it is still financially viable for you, consider giving your tenants a rent break from upcoming increases, perhaps delaying their increase for one or two months. A polite card stating your intentions to give them the gift of lower rent for a few more months will be greatly appreciated.
If you can’t decide on what to give your tenants, you should at least send them a card for the holidays. This act of goodwill can go a long way in improving your landlord-tenant relationship. If you do send them a card, be mindful of your tenants’ religions and cultures. Not everyone celebrates Christmas, so if you are not sure if they do, it is best to wish them “Happy Holidays” instead. This way, you can show respect for your tenants as you send good wishes their way.
Regardless of what you get your renters for the holidays, make sure it is thoughtful and appropriate. While it might not be easy to choose the right gift, your efforts will pay off in the end. If you live at a distance from your properties or are pressed for time, a great option is to hire a professional Bridgeport property manager to do it for you. At Real Property Management Southern Connecticut, we actively cultivate good tenant relationships in many different ways. Would you like to learn more? Give us a call at 203-821-7303 today!
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
