Throughout the year your landlord has done more than just take your rent money. They have repaired your leaking facet, helped you fill out insurance paperwork, she unlocked the door for your kid after school when he forgot his key, and she listened to your heartaches. Your landlord wears many hats in this industry; babysitter, dog catcher, advocate, police, decorator, guidance consoler, taxi, gardener, repairman, painter, financial planner, and the list goes on. Show your appreciation by giving one of these gifts at Christmas.
Christmas Cards: Christmas cards are great if you can do more than just scribble your name in it. Try writing a personal note detailing how much you appreciate their hard work. Cards can be displayed on office doors as a sort of shrine to their greatness. It also help decorate their office with a festive holiday spirit.
Baked Goodies: This is one of the best gifts to give your landlord. We all love getting cookies, and chocolate covered peanut butter balls, and all sort of sweets. Just remember to package it attractively, because no matter how good it tastes, if it looks bad it will end up in the garbage.
Chocolates: One year I received perhaps my best gift from a tenant. It was a little six pack of truffles from DeBrand’s Chocolates based out of Fort Wayne, Indiana. Quality over quantity is important. Look for a specialty store near you. Most stores will even have gift boxes available so all you need to do is attached a little card.
Homemade Crafts: Perhaps your talent is crochet or cross stitch. Share your work with your landlord. She will appreciate being thought of during the holiday season. Some ideas are pot holders, dish towels, scarf, candles, and any sort of Christmas tree ornament. Those small gestures go a long way.
Gift Baskets: Gift Baskets come in all sizes and they don’t have to be large to make a good impression. Take something as simple as a Christmas coffee mug, fill the bottom with tissue paper, put in a packet of cocoa mix, pop in a candy cane, finally top it off by tying a pretty red ribbon on it. It simple, cheap, and makes a nice presentation all for under $5.
Your landlord doesn’t expect extravagant gifts from you. They probably know your financial situation and wouldn’t want you to go broke trying to out gift the Jones. The best gift you can give your landlord is to let them know that you love your home and that you appreciate what they do for you.
