The Closing Gifts...that keep on giving!

For the March Kodak/ActiveRain Challenge,  we were asked to consider the importance of a great closing gift. Think we are looking for the gifts that keep on giving!

Over the past twenty years, I have given few gifts..one I affectionately named the ROME-BA   

                                                           
Another time a special shoe cover dispenser. 

 
This is a perfect gift for any kind of construction that may be planned. Also a wonderful item when we have a bit of messy weather. Perfect for the movers going in and out. And I also use this for an impromptu  open house.

And several years ago, I got talked into these digital photo key chains, where pictures of the house and family could be loaded. When kept by the client, my branded information was quite visible. Until this contest, I had forgotten and still have a few brand new ones in boxes. Thanks for the contest idea...I now have a couple extra gifts.
                                     

My routine now and all time favorite closing gift (although I never considered it a closing gift until I read about the contest described above) is to break bread right after settlement. Depending on the time...it can be a brunch, lunch or dinner. Sometimes, I will invite my husband to join us. Other times not. It is the perfect time to relax, share good times or smooth over some of the rough spots.  It is a special time to share with clients a bit of personal information. And it is good for future business and friendship. Besides it is very enjoyable!!

There are other times that I will include the lender and/or title attorney. On several occasions I have invited the other party and/or the other agent.

During the course of the transaction, you get to know your clients, their likes and their dislikes. Before closing you have an idea of an appropriate place. This is not the time to try out a new bistro, pub or restaurant. You want a good place where you are welcome, comfortable and know the menu. You are the one doing the entertaining, the hosting and  they are your guests!

This is a good time to do a photo or video shoot of the restaurant and the guests, if they are up for it. Write a blog as soon as possible and then email  and better yet, print out the article in color, laminate and send it to your clients.  Another laminated  review  about the restaurant, can be sent or hand delivered to the restaurant owner on your next visit. This is the gift that keeps on giving!


For the March Kodak/ActiveRain Challenge,  we were asked to consider the importance of a great closing gift. We are looking for the gifts that keep on giving!