Prospects turned residents go through a few “first impressions” during the leasing process. There is a first impression when they first discover your community. This is what prompted them to learn more about what your community has to offer in the first place. There’s a second first impression when they first come to tour your property. This is when they get that first glance into what life in your community may look like. The prospects meet you and your staff, they may meet potential neighbors, they get a feel for the atmosphere, and they use this impression to decide if they’re interested in leasing or not. The final first impression is when they first become a true part of your community. It’s their first day in their new residence, and their first experience living the lifestyle your team provides.

At OccupancySolutions.com we know how important every “first impression” is, but we want to focus on the final first impression. If new residents are welcomed in with open arms, they’re more likely to build an immediate positive association with you, their residence, and the experience they’re going to have. One way to make a lasting impact for that last first impression is with a simple (but effective) welcome package.

A welcome package doesn’t have to be anything elaborate or expensive, but a small token from your community management team showing the residents just how pleased you are to have them as a part of your community family. What may go into a welcome package? A few ideas include:

1. Fresh fruit basket – A fresh fruit basket with a few seasonal fruits from a local farmstand or grocery store brightens up the kitchen with a healthy and thoughtful treat.

2. Everyday necessities – A basket including small essentials like toothpaste, toothbrushes, toilet paper, a roll of paper towels, or other everyday necessities shows thoughtfulness and relays an immediate “welcome home” message.

3. Local treats – Local treats from a bakery or candy shop are a sweet way to welcome new residents to your community.

4. A movie basket – A couple of bags of microwaveable popcorn, a nice blanket, and a bottle of soda or wine lets your new residents settle in comfortably.

5. A hardy plant – Plants breathe new life into any space, and new residents will appreciate the gesture and the beauty it brings to their new home. Make sure to choose a hardy, low-light friendly plant just in case your new residents lack a green thumb.

At OccupancySolutions.com we want today’s property managers to make a positive impact during every step of the prospective resident to official resident process. To learn more about impactful gestures you can use to impress your prospects or residents, contact us today.