Celebrate the new homeowner in your life with a housewarming gift that says welcome. Whether you are wishing someone special in your life congratulations or welcoming a new neighbor to the hood, a housewarming gift is a thoughtful gesture. Plus according to etiquette maven Emily Post, it’s customary to bring a gift when visiting a new homeowner for the first time.
A housewarming gift doesn’t have to be expensive just something that can be used for the home. When contemplating the ideal gift you’ll want to consider function and practicality. This is especially true if you are buying a gift for the first-time homeowner. It’s also best to give a gift that speaks to the homeowner personally. And something they can look back at years down the road. If you just aren’t sure where to begin don’t worry. We’ve got some ideas on what to bring. And most likely help you score an invitation to their first barbecue.
For the first-time homeowner
Making the transition from an apartment to a home is a big deal. It also requires much more maintenance. Calling the leasing office when the front door lock is on the fritz is no longer an option. There is also lawn maintenance to consider. Here are a few gift ideas that can come to the aid of the first-time homeowner.
A tool kit: Arming a new homeowner with a tool kit is not only the perfect gift, top-end ones most likely will last for years to come. They come in a variety of sizes and price ranges. The basic variety usually is equipped with pliers, screwdrivers, wrenches, a hammer and a tape measure.
Yard and garden tools: Though many new homes come with some type of landscaping already in place, it’s all about maintaining its pristine appearance. It’s probably a sure bet that someone who is a first-time homeowner is also a little green when it comes to lawn and garden maintenance. For yard work consider gifts such as garden hoses, rakes, shovels, pruning shears, and hoes. Garden tool sets are great gifts and come in a variety of sizes, colors, and price ranges. And they’re much less expensive than buying a trowel, garden gloves, weeder and other necessities separately.
BBQ grill sets: Honestly, there’s no way you’ll be missing from the guest list if you are the one that bought the grill set. New homeowners can’t wait to fire up the grill. For former apartment dwellers it’s a top priority. So, get them started with a new BBQ grill set. Heavy duty stainless steel sets come with as little as two tools and as many as 19 and more. For the perfect accompaniment add in an assortment of barbecue sauces and rubs.
Housewarming gift ideas for the outdoors
With outdoor living spaces bigger than ever most likely new homeowners may need some help filling them up. And since outdoor living spaces are trendier than ever, don’t forget to look for gifts that will enhance the outside of the home. Here are a few of our top picks.
Give a native plant: Texas weather can be tricky. By doing some research you’ll be able to choose a plant that complements both the weather and the Central Texas soil. You’ll also need to consider the season. Succulents grow well in Texas and are almost foolproof. They also work well inside, too.
A gift card to a local nursery: By keeping it local you encourage the new homeowner to establish a new business connection and maybe a lifelong friend. And you also give them the opportunity to choose those items that can be most useful to their landscape design.
Give the gift of a tree: We don’t know any new homeowner that wouldn’t appreciate a tree. A tree is a gift that keeps on giving. They also provide a positive impact to the environment. Again, it’s best to do research on those varieties that grow best in the area. However, our personal favorite is the Southern Magnolia. Its springtime creamy white blooms are simply gorgeous. Even when it’s not in bloom the waxy large leaves are beautiful.
Lanterns and candles: Buying accessories such as table lanterns and decorative candles adds charm and personalization to any outdoor space. They also help to create an intimate evening atmosphere. Don’t forget to look outside of the box. Hanging lanterns and twinkling lights are also great attention-getters.
A personalized welcome mat: Make the new homeowner the star of their domain with a personalized front door mat. Make it a set and add one for the backyard door.
Make it unique
When choosing a gift for the inside of the home, look for something that is unique and personal. But don’t forget about usefulness. Here are a few ideas that cover all the bases.
Home Fragrance Gift Basket: The smell of newly painted walls can linger for months. To help combat the problem a gift basket full of products in their favorite fragrance will help to ease the transition. From scented candles to diffusers, room sprays, and essential oils, the smell of paint will be gone in no time.
Return address stamp: To pass on a new address as quick as possible a return address stamp is the perfect gift. Though it may be a bit understated, its function is priceless. Go a few steps further and give a gift card for personalized printed address change cards. We’re sure the gift will be much appreciated.
Photo frames: The primary purpose of buying a housewarming gift is to make the new homeowner feel comfortable in their new home. For that reason a photo frame is ideal. It’s both heartfelt and helps to preserve memories for years to come. Photo frames come in a large variety of colors, sizes, and price ranges. Gold frames in a variety of styles are making a comeback and will look elegant in any new home.
Make it personal: Engraving the homeowner’s initials or last name on coasters, fancy hand towels for the guest powder room, or on a new home ornament says you care. Also try an engraved cutting board, a personalized serving tray, or personalized key chains for everyone in the family.
Visit Travisso during the holidays
Looking to buy a new home before the new year? Visit Travisso during the holidays and explore our world-class amenities in a natural Hill Country setting. Gorgeous views, new model homes, and a family-friendly neighborhood wait. While here discover our endless recreational possibilities for the entire family. And see why so many Austin area home seekers are choosing to call Travisso home.