Closing Gifts: Why Gift Baskets are Old News (and What to Give Instead)
Updated: Aug 20
I’ve spent a lot of time working with realtors across Vancouver Island, and I’ve noticed a common challenge.
They have spent months helping a family find their home. They've navigated the inspections, the paperwork, and the stress. But when it comes to the closing gift, many agents fall back on the standard gift basket: wine, crackers, and maybe a branded cutting board.
These are nice, but they aren't personal. Memorable gift-giving has that personal touch! Consumable gifts get finished; the crackers are eaten, the cutting board ends up in a drawer, and the wine is drunk. There is a better way to stay top of mind!
Most realtors know that their best business comes from referrals. But a referral only happens if the client remembers you two years after the sale.
Recently, I was at a housewarming party for a friend of a friend. As I walked into the main living room, I saw the artwork their realtor had given them, framed and proudly displayed. I was exceptionally excited because it was a painting I had been commissioned to create. The couple loved the gift and showed it to everyone at the party: "Look at this great gift our realtor Chris gave to us."
So far, the reception of these small artworks has been exceptional. The realtors' clients keep talking about their house portraits, and commission requests have expanded to other realtors.
If you are a realtor looking for a unique gift, this is it!
One of the big concerns folks have with commissioning an artist is that many of us like to do our own thing, and nailing down due dates can be a challenge. As someone with a project management certificate, I know realtors are busy and don't have time to chase!
I treat commissions like any other part of business. We will agree on a completion date; I will request the assets I need, you'll provide the information, and I will get to work.
Like any business, I do take a non-refundable deposit, and then it's as easy as:
The Photo: You email me a photo of the listing (or a clear shot from the curb).
The Execution: I paint it on high-quality 8"x10" cold-pressed paper.
The Delivery: I handle the local delivery in Victoria or ship it across BC.
Payment: You pay the final invoice easily online.
For many realtors, closing gifts are a legitimate business expense. Instead of spending that budget on generic items, you are investing it into a piece of custom, local art that actually supports the Vancouver Island creative economy. I can give you an invoice, and I charge GST.
If you're a realtor in Victoria or anywhere in British Columbia, this is your chance to turn a simple closing into a heartfelt celebration.
Contact me today to get started.
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