How to Select a Housewarming Gift

A housewarming party is traditional when someone moves into a new home. Guests generally bring a thoughtful gift to the new homeowners and get a chance to eat, drink and informally tour the new house.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Cookbooks
• Gift Cards
• Local Travel Guides
• Candles
• Gift Baskets
• Houseplants
• Wrapping Paper
• Wines
• Magazine Subscriptions
• Gift Certificates

1. Consider the circumstances of the new homeowners. If they are well established, they probably don't need basics like small kitchen appliances or towels. If they are just starting out, however, these might be appreciated.
2. Bring a gift basket filled with gourmet foods, wine and/or useful items for the house or garden.
3. Consider outdoor needs. A new address plaque, a planter, a personalized doormat or a charming garden bench can all be welcome gifts. For use inside the home, bring a houseplant or indoor herb garden.
4. Give a local travel guide or a subscription to a local magazine or newspaper if the newcomers are from out of the city or state. It's a great way to get them acquainted with the new neighborhood. Maps are also a good idea.
5. Consider a book on interior design, landscaping or architectural styles. A cookbook can also be a great gift.
6. Give a gift certificate for a meal at a local restaurant, or tickets for a local sporting event or concert. A gift certificate for the local home improvement store will also be appreciated.
7. Make sure anything you buy can be exchanged or returned by the homeowners if they decide not to keep it.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't feel like you have to spend a lot of money. A basket of homemade cookies or a bottle of wine both make a great gift.
• Sometimes an offer of help is much appreciated. Give a coupon for a meal to be brought in, help in the yard or a couple of hours of free babysitting.
• If you don't know the new homeowners well, avoid choosing art, interior accents or things such as towels that may not fit in with the decor.