Hi Moms,
I hired a realtor last January to manage a rental property that I own in another city. She and her husband have done a very good job with maintaining this property for me as well as collecting the rent. She gets a 10% commission monthly on the rent. I am clueless as to how to handle Christmas since this is a business relationship and not a personal relationship. Would a gift basket be sufficient or should I tip? If I tip, how much should I give? Any other suggestions are welcomed. Thank you for all of your help:)
M.
Thanks to all of you for your suggestions. I ended up getting her a cookie basket. Happy Holidays!
A gift basket sounds sufficient. "In appreciation for all you do..." There's a money crunch on right now, and although they could probably/possibly use any $, it's difficult for everyone. They get a commission, so I'd say get a gift basket.
Although it is sweet that you have even thought about this... I wonder why people have an expectation of giving business aquantences christmas presents. I do not buy my car insurance guy a present... I've never met him... But do tip our paper person. She drives year round no matter the weather and gets our paper here on time. She also is someone that when I see her around town I say hi to...
When did it become the norm to give a gift to everyone and anyone that you ever come across thru out the year? Use the "how much effort does she actually expend" Once a month to make sure the rent is paid, or more...
I would forgo the "gift"/bonus since you are paying her a commission unless you discussed it prior to the agreement. They are called Bonus's for a reason... They are unexpected... OTherwise they are called profit sharing.
I would send a seasons greetings card.
If you consider her a friend then a gift would be more appropriate. The amount would depend on how much you can afford.
Also consider this. Are you sure this person keeps Christmas? Maybe she does Hannukah, Kwanza, some thing else, or nothing... So unless you know she does keep the holiday, keep any greetings as a general seasons greetings.
I vote for a gift basket.
get a gift. a gift certificate or gift basket would be nice. there are many types of baskets to choose from. edible arrangements are nice, too.
i am thinking a gift card out to eat would be a good idea
Most business relationships that I have seen include gift cards but mostly gift baskets.
Have you tried checking the Popcorn Factory? I love using them even for family gifts!!
http://www.thepopcornfactory.com/
For bath and body gifts that are nice and more natural, I really love Lush brand. They also have a nice assortment for men, too. The smell is not too bad, the quality is amazing and it tends to last nicely if you don't go overboard on it. But for most of it - a little bit will do ya a whole way! They also have great holiday gift boxes~
Just know that it is the thought that counts! Happy Holidays~
If you really feel the service was exemplary, you can send something but it's hardly expected.
In this case I'd send something useful and pretty. What about an Edible Arrangement? I LOVE getting those, and you can get it in whatever size you want. It doesn't even have to say "Merry Christmas" on the card either, "Thanks for all you do, have a great New Year" would suffice.
M.; i understand your question, but i also find that celebrating in such a way that tells you how and when to give gifts looses meaning of a gift, if you feel compelled to give you should, you dont need a calendar to tell you how you should give, or should you give, or what to give, its ok to give out of the compulsion of your heart, and to make the other person feel good at any time, enjoy giving to whom ever , of course too you may not be able to give due to money issues, so analize your giving reasons, and then give what your heart is telling you! enjoy , D. s
I would buy her a bottl a wine basket. If you know she drinks it if not than maybe a gift card to a really good restuarant or something to show your appreciation. I give our realiator a bottle of wine at christmas every year and we have been moved for 5 years.
You should do what you feel is the right idea.If you know her well even as a business partner maybe just a small gift basket,something to say thank you for the year and happy holidays.I think even if she may celebrate something other than christmas it's still a good idea.Do what your heart tells you.
Happy Holidays.
In these tough times, a gift basket would be absolutely wonderful. Don't tip. Depending on how it's issued, a "tip" could be insulting to a professional who's already receiving a commission. A gift basket is more thoughtful and personal. Tips are appropriate and considerate for professionals in the service industry.
It is not inappropriate to issue a warm appreciation to people who have served you well within a professional relationship, especially during a season that is supposed to encourage everyone to be a little more spiritual.
Good luck!
How nice of you to remember your employees! I'd have to say that a gift basket is generous enough! Or a gift card. Gotta love the season of giving. I wish it went on forever!
S.
