With hosting, traveling, and gift-giving, the holiday season can be an expensive time of the year — but some of the most meaningful gifts don’t actually have to cost you much at all. Giving the gift of your time could very easily be the most special gift of the holiday season. Here are 7 non-traditional gift ideas that any homeowner will love (plus, these gifts could might even add a little value)!
1. A Season Of Mowing
Giving the gift of lawn work — and especially mowing — could be a big hit with your recipient. If you aren’t comfortable committing to an entire season of mowing, consider gifting a specific number of services or a month of mowing. Not only could this gift add curb appeal to the homeowner’s house, it might also save them a little of their own time if they typically mow themselves (or money if they usually hire it out).
2. An Organized Space
For many homeowners, the thought of organizing a closet or pantry alone can feel overwhelming. And sometimes, it’s easier for a neutral party to jump in and get started. If you have a person on your gifting list who appreciates tidy spaces, consider giving them the gift of organization. Every time they see the space you organized, they’ll think of you (and appreciate your effort!).
3. Window Cleaning
You’d be hard pressed to find anyone who enjoys the chore of cleaning windows. Make someone’s holiday by gifting them a day of window cleaning. It’s possible they’ll be forever grateful for this act of service.
4. Planting Flowers
Planted flowers go a long way in adding to the curb appeal of the home. While actually buying the flowers might not be budget-friendly, offering to plant them for your recipient won’t cost you anything but time. Let your gift recipient pick out their own blooms, then designate a day for them to have the pleasure of coming home to freshly planted flowers!
5. Power Washing
If you own a power washer, considering gifting a day of power washing. Think: patios, siding, sidewalks, and driveways. Seeing the progress you make will be rewarding for you, not to mention enjoyable for your gift recipient.
6. A DIY Herb Garden
If you have someone on your shopping list who loves to cook, this might just be the perfect gift! With very little cost, you can create an herb garden that your gift recipient can use in their favorite recipes. If you happen to know a few of their favorite herbs, start there. If not, consider planting a few of the more common herbs for cooking, like rosemary, basil, and chives.
7. Gutter Cleaning
After a season of falling leaves and winter weather, gutter cleaning might be the best gift you can give a homeowner! Offer up a day of your time to rid your recipient’s gutters of debris, and they’ll greatly appreciate the effort.