Buying your own home has long been an American dream, and a housewarming gift marks this momentous occasion of personal achievement and maturity. Using a little creativity and thinking about the likely needs of the new homeowner or homeowners can help you find a thoughtful and useful housewarming gift that's affordable, too.
Entertaining
A gift that incorporates items for entertaining will remind the new homeowner of you every time that she uses them. Give a platter, martini glasses, wine chillers or shot glasses. Many of these items can be found for $20 or less but can be appreciated for years to come.
Plants
Nothing warms up a new home like a houseplant. Give a houseplant that is easy to care for or with which the homeowner has experience. A common houseplant can cost $10 or less, and a miniature garden can run about $30.
Linens
Give new bath towels, hand towels or dish rags to the new homeowner, in colors that match or complement her decor. If you have the skills, sew a monogrammed letter to the front of the towels to add a personalized touch.
Baskets
An inexpensive gift can look a lot more expensive by using a basket to showcase it. You can purchase a fruit or gift basket, or you can make your own personalized basket. Fill the basket with items from your local dollar store to keep it affordable. You can make it a themed basket by including specific items that correspond. For example, make a bath basket by adding various bath salts, bubble bath and lotion products. A couple of movie tickets and bag of popcorn works well for movie enthusiasts. Pancake batter, syrup, a mixing bowl and mixing spoons combine to make a batter bowl basket.
Storage
Many houses can benefit from the addition of storage devices. Invest in a small supply of containers, baskets, canvas totes or a wooden storage box. Scour second-hand stores to find an inexpensive trunk or storage ottoman for a character piece.
Home Improvement
Give a useful gift to the new homeowner by supplying her with her own set of tools. Small tool kits are available at affordable prices and in feminine colors. You also can buy individual hammer and nails, hooks, screws and other picture hanging hardware. Paint rags and paint rollers will be appreciated if the new homeowner is planning to revamp the space.
Pictures or Art
A new homeowner is certain to appreciate new picture frames. He can add his own photos to begin making the new space feel like a home. If you know the homeowner's taste in art, you could visit a local craft show or amateur artist's showing to score some affordable art to help cover the walls.
References
Writer Bio
Samantha Kemp is a lawyer for a general practice firm. She has been writing professionally since 2009. Her articles focus on legal issues, personal finance, business and education. Kemp acquired her JD from the University of Arkansas School of Law. She also has degrees in economics and business and teaching.