Buying a new home is an exciting experience, especially for young adults, as this is probably the first home they’ve owned. They may throw a huge party to show their loved ones around or invite a small group of friends for a fun night indoors. Even if you know someone who just bought a home but doesn’t want to throw a party, you can still find the perfect housewarming gifts for them. These gifts are suitable for any budget, too.
1. Welcome Mat
Over 20% of home buyers are first timers who may not know what they need. They may have a long list of things to buy, but one thing that probably won’t make that list is a welcome mat. It serves as a fun way to welcome visitors, but it also lets them wipe off their feet before they come inside to prevent their shoes from dragging in mud and grass. For a special touch, consider a personalized mat bearing their last name or an image of their pet.
2. Pantry Essentials
New buyers usually wait until they settle in to hit the grocery store and stock up on what they need. A gift basket filled with pantry essentials is a great option because it gives them things they’ll need or use right away. Add things like paper towels, paper plates, and plastic utensils. You might add a few snacks, too. Customize the basket with cleaning supplies like window and counter cleaners or refresher sprays that work on their queen mattress and other furniture.
3. Plants or Flowers
A bouquet of fresh flowers is a fun gift idea, but make sure you include a vase in case they haven’t unpacked yet. An even better idea is a plant in bloom. If the new homeowner loves cooking, you can go all out with a small selection of herbs in decorative containers. Basil and thyme are good options. And someone who bought a home with a large backyard might love a small tree they can watch grow as the years pass.
4. Elevated Basics
Elevated basics make your gift stand out from all the others they receive. These include simple items they need but likely wouldn’t buy. Keep in mind that young adults often spend a lot on their new homes and may not have enough left in their budgets to splurge on other things. While a home baker might love a stand mixer, someone who loves cooking might prefer a bottle of expensive olive oil or a new cast iron pan. Look for ways to upgrade the basics they already have.
5. Furniture
If you have a bigger budget, consider a piece of furniture or a whole set like one of the popular bedroom furniture sets. Consider classic pieces that will never go out of style. A bedroom set might include a headboard and bed frame with a dresser and/or matching nightstands. Young adults often have furniture passed down to them and would appreciate new pieces. You don’t need to spend a lot on a whole set, though, because you can easily give them one piece like a coffee table or comfy chair in their personal style.
6. Address Stamp
Young adults who use the mail might get a kick out of a return address stamp. It has their name and address and comes with an ink pad. When they send a piece of mail, they can use the stamp to quickly address the envelope. Some sellers even let you customize the stamp with a fun image like an animal or a nature scene. The stamp also comes in handy when they need to send out thank-you cards for the housewarming gifts they get.
7. Fire Extinguisher
House fires can happen in the middle of the day or night and lead to devastating losses. In 2024, there had been 1,721 house fire fatalities as of Nov. 18. Having a fire extinguisher at home lets residents put the fire out quickly without calling for help. They are also one of those things that many people won’t buy for themselves. Fire extinguishers come in different sizes, making them perfect for the kitchen or any other room. If you have more money to spend, consider adding a fire ladder.
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8. Fireproof Box
It only takes one natural disaster for homeowners to realize they need a fireproof box to keep their valuables and important papers safe. The best boxes protect their contents at high temperatures for hours of exposure. You’ll find some that are small enough to slide under the base of the bed frame with its best mattress and others that they can put in a closet. When shopping for smaller boxes, look for those that can withstand high drops and heavy objects falling on them.
9. Homeowner Survival Kit
A young adult may have a few tools, but they likely don’t have everything they need. Create a homeowner survival kit that has the things you use daily and the things you used when you first moved into your home. Duct tape and spackle are great for minor repairs around the house. Add a selection of screws and nails with some small tools like a hammer, corded drill, and a set of screwdrivers. You may want to toss in a gift card to the nearest home improvement store, too. This lets them add any essentials they need to repair or make changes around the house. Place it all inside a new toolbox.
Treat a Younger Home Buyer
Do you remember how you felt after buying your first home? You were probably excited but also a little nervous. That young person in your life feels the same way, which is why you want to look for housewarming gifts that help them feel at home. No matter your budget or the age of the young adult, you can use any of these gifts to help them love their new space.