Welcome gift for a new Tenant?

[Peter G.]

I want to start off on the right foot and was thinking of getting a gift for my new tenant.

Has anyone here done this if so do you have ideas for what to get them?

[Chris Eaker]

@Peter G. There are some landlords who don't care about getting to know their tenants anything beyond collecting their rent, but I am not one of them and it sounds like you aren't either. I have been contemplating this very thing. Pizza on move in day is always appreciated. Another idea is a move in basket of hand soap, paper towels, and toilet paper. Some people I've heard even throw in a cheapo clear shower liner. It's just a token to let them know you care and appreciate them. Another option is simply a $25 gift card to Walmart or Home Depot. People always need to go pick something up for the new place. 

When we renew, we offer them an upgrade and give them a choice of one of three things. They usually don't cost much to us, but it gives them something new and upgrades our property at the same time. Things like a new bathroom faucet, new light fixture, or painting their front door. Being a human with a heart is not a bad thing. You can still enforce your lease if the time comes.