5 Gifting Mythbusters for Realtors: Why Client Gifting is Worth Every Penny

As a realtor, building meaningful relationships with clients can be the key to repeat business, referrals, and lasting success. But when it comes to client gifting, there are common myths that often hold realtors back from fully embracing the practice. Let’s debunk some of these myths and explore why client gifting is a powerful tool for any real estate professional.

Myth #1: Gifting is Too Expensive to Be Worth It

• The Myth: "Gifts are costly and will only eat into my profits without much return."

• The Truth: Thoughtful gifts don’t have to be pricey. When done right, gifting is an investment in your client relationships and your business. Research shows that clients feel valued when they receive a small token of appreciation, and that feeling can translate into loyalty and referrals.

• Examples:: A thoughtful, memorable gift doesn’t have to cost a lot. A gift can be low cost to you but the perceived value that your client could possibly be beyond what you could anticipate. Items such as a personalized keychain, a custom candle with their new home’s coordinates, or a curated welcome home box—can make a lasting impression. Clients are more likely to remember you, recommend you to friends, and even reach out for future transactions. It’s not about the price tag; it’s about the thought and care behind it. The nice part is, through gifting (besides the house) it gives something tangible for your clients to remember you by. 

Myth #2: Clients Will Think I’m Trying Too Hard

• The Myth: "Gifting feels like overkill. My clients already appreciate my work."

• The Truth: The reality is that most clients don’t expect gifts, so when they receive one, it’s a pleasant surprise. A small, well-chosen gift shows that you care about their happiness beyond the sale. With realtors, there will be some expectation to receive a gift from you; so that is when you can take the opportunity to surprise and delight your clients and give them a gift when they don’t expect it. 

• The takeaway:  Client gifts can reinforce your relationship and keep your name top-of-mind long after closing day. When clients feel valued, they’re more inclined to reach out again and share your name with potential buyers or sellers in their network. Going the extra mile with a thoughtful gift, will differentiate your services and help you stay top of mind!

Myth #3: Gifts Need to Be Branded with My Business Logo

• The Myth: "If I give a gift, it needs to remind them of my brand."

• The Truth: While branding has its place, a client-focused gift should be about them, not you. Overly branded items can feel impersonal and miss the mark.

• The takeaway:  Instead, choose something meaningful, like a personalized piece of home décor, a gourmet snack box, or a set of unique wine glasses. Thoughtful gifts that aren’t branded often feel more genuine and leave a better impression. Your clients are more likely to reach out and refer you when they feel appreciated for who they are, not as a walking advertisement. There are some items where you can add your branding, where it’s part of the gift by not necessarily the center of attention. For example, if you gifted an engraved cutting board; you could have your clients last names, address or date of purchase on one side and your branding on the other side.

Myth #4: Gifts Are Only for Big Milestones Like Closing Day

• The Myth: "I should save gifts for major events only."

• The Truth: Gifting doesn’t have to be reserved for closing day alone. Consider small tokens at various points throughout the process, such as a coffee gift card after the first showing or a little treat to celebrate a contract.

• Examples: :Another perk to utilizing gifts, it helps build the relationship with your clients. If you can make them feel like working with you is more than just a transaction while you are selling the transformation of them becoming a homeowner, you are doing well! Here are examples for when you could give gifts besides just on closing day. Welcome gift, open house survival guide, seasonal, birthday, and holidays. Smaller, consistent gifts can keep clients engaged and excited about the process, leading to a smoother, more positive transaction experience. Even after closing on a house, you can gift a 1 year anniversary gift for when they purchased the house or other milestones they may have such as having a baby. These little touches set you apart from other realtors and show that you go the extra mile for your clients.

Myth #5: Gifting Isn’t Professional

• The Myth: "Giving gifts feels unprofessional and isn’t necessary for my business."

• The Truth: When done thoughtfully, gifting is a sign of professionalism and client appreciation. A well-chosen gift reflects that you value your clients and want to celebrate their journey. 

• The takeaway: To make the gift professional, you need to make sure that it is relevant to the services you provide and better yet something that will bring them back to directly working with you. Gifts allow you to connect on a personal level, creating a memorable experience that’s both professional and heartfelt. This can turn a one-time client into a lifelong advocate for your business.

Why Client Gifting is a Win-Win for Realtors

Breaking free of these myths can help you embrace gifting as a strategic tool for client retention and referral growth. Gifts are an investment in relationship-building that sets you apart in a crowded market, ensuring your clients feel appreciated and connected to you long after the transaction is over. So, whether it’s a personalized keepsake or a simple gesture of gratitude, give gifts that matter—and watch the benefits roll in. Consider gift giving tob e your secret weapon to differentiating your services, staying top of mind and showing people that they are more than a transaction.