RENEE DEKROUB

Most top real estate agents find ways to welcome their clients to their new home. A common theme is a bottle of wine and some wine glasses for that first post-threshold toast, or a bouquet of flowers to brighten up that empty living space until the furniture arrives.

But are you truly being as creative as you can with your appreciation? Here are some innovative gift ideas that will truly keep you front of mind with your valued customers and assure their gratitude and repeat business, not to mention a slew of referrals.

1.How about a streaming video device, like a Roku or Amazon Fire Stick? There’s a good chance your clients will not have their cable service up and running for a few days, and this is an excellent way for them to enjoy their television before they get that connection going. Bundle it up in a basket with some DVD’s for the kids, and don’t forget all necessary cables.

2.Matching bathrobes and Bath kits: Fleece or terrycloth bathrobes and a basket filled with highend his and her body scrubs, bubble bath and other luxurious pampering items can make the first night in a new home feel like a check-in at a fabulous resort and make the memory of that first night one to cherish. Again, don’t forget the kids! 3.Arrange a catered meal from a local vendor. Ascertain in advance dietary preferences and restrictions, and have a wonderful, healthy meal delivered on move-in night. To complete the magic, provide brand new plates, silverware and glassware to serve it all on.

4.For homes with swimming pools or Jacuzzis, a stack of fluffy pool towels is always appreciated and will be used by family and friends for years to come. Additionally, acrylic stemware for celebrating safely can be provided alongside them.

5.If it’s winter time and the home has a fireplace, make sure there’s plenty of wood to burn. Some fireplace accessories and a log holder will certainly make your clients appreciate you on every chilly night to come.

So when it comes to gifting your buyers, the trick is to be creative. A bottle of wine lasts one night, and the flowers wilt in a few days. Try coming up with something a little more creative that will remain with your clients in their day-to-day lives and remind them of you consistently. The little bit extra you spend to show your gratitude can reap huge dividends when it comes time for your client to purchase a second home or refer a friend.

DAVE JARDINE

DAVE JARDINE

David Jardine began his real estate career after working as the Athletic Director at Andrews University for 14 years. “I was looking for a bit of a change,” David recalls, “and knowing that real estate is really about relationships, I decided to pursue this area. I got my license a little over three years ago, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it ever since.” A resident of southwest Michigan for the last 35 years, David enjoys getting to know his clients and helping them achieve their real estate goals.

David serves the southwest Michigan area, where he is one of the topproducing agents. Almost a third of his business comes from repeat and referral clients, and that share continues to grow with each year. It’s an impressive feat that speaks to the trust and confidence David inspires. “I take the time to actually get to know my clients,” David explains. “It’s important to me to ensure that they’re being treated well, with respect and honesty, and that I’m communicating with them. Some agents have a very difficult time communicating with their clients, and therefore their clients are left in the dark and are a little unsure about the transaction, whereas when a client calls me, I’ll pick up the phone or text them back right away.”

Staying in touch with past clients is important, and David does this in a number of ways. He

sends Christmas cards and birthday wishes, as well as just picking up the phone every now and then to call and see how they’re doing. “I stay in touch with clients on social media, too,” David says. “It’s important to always keep that personal touch going.”

When it comes to marketing his listings, David has an Administrative Assistant with a marketing background who excels in this area. David’s listings are promoted through a variety of channels, including Facebook, Adwerx, local newspapers, and larger newspapers in Chicago and New York. That’s in addition to advertising through the MLS, Zillow, Realtor.com, and other platforms.

Community involvement is important to David. With his background as an Athletic Director, he still supports local elementary and high school athletics as well as athletic summer leagues. Faith is important to David and his wife and kids, and they are involved through their church with local charities and mission projects overseas. When he is not working or giving back, David is an avid golfer. Athletics have been a huge part of his life, and he loves watching and playing sports.

In the future, David plans to continue building his business and possibly grow his team in the next few years. However, David says, “Right now things are going very well and I’m grateful for the place I find myself in.” Above all, David wants to continue providing excellent service to his clients. “I’ve always enjoyed doing a good job for someone. I want to make sure people feel appreciated. I believe that if you’re doing a great job and you feel good about it, then you’re not really working at all. You’re just doing something you love.”

To find out more about David Jardine, please call by cell at (269) 325-6698, email davejardinerealtor@gmail.com, or visit www.zillow.com/profile/davejardinerealtor