When someone new moves into the area, it is traditional to buy them house warming presents. It is a sign of friendship, and reaching out. But, you might want to stand out, and be a little more thoughtful than what your typical house warming present will say.

First off, lets identify what a typical house warming present is:

- wine
- fruit basket
- plants/flowers
- cookware
- wine glasses
- symbolic gifts
- food

Imagine being the new people on the block, with a crowd of people coming to your door with these gifts. The first thing I think when I see a plant or flower is:

“Great, more work I have to do around here. Thanks.”

And food? Really? Do they like the same kinds of foods you do? How do you know? They just moved in. Most likely, it is just going to go to waste, plus, its best to give a gift that will be kept, so it will remind them of you, in a good way.

We all want to be remembered in a good way, right? Yes, I thought as much.

You should think outside the the box just a little bit. Maybe go a little fancy, every one loves fancy, as long as it’s tasteful, right?

So there you have it, a list of things NOT to buy for house warming presents. Sure, people say that it is the thought that counts, but really, you do need to actually put more thought into it than that.

The original gifts are going to be remembered, the unique one of a kind gifts are going to be treasured. If they treasure, and remember your gift, they may just do the same thing with you. And in the end you will walk away with a new found friend. That is why you were giving them the house warming presents in the first place is it not?