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In a world of automation and AI, agents who lead with heart and human connection are the ones who stand out. One of the simplest (yet most overlooked) ways to build a business that lasts? Gratitude.
Not just at closing. Not just at holidays. But especially during seasons when most agents go quiet.
This summer, don’t go dark. Show up. Check in. Give thanks. Here are nine smart, smile-inducing ways to show appreciation to your clients and sphere in a way that builds loyalty, trust and future business.
1. Host a summer client appreciation event
It doesn’t have to be a gala. A backyard BBQ, a sunset ice cream social or even a picnic in the park can work wonders. Invite past clients, current prospects and vendor partners for a laid-back celebration of the people who make your business possible.
Pro tip: Bring name tags, have a fun photo booth and hand out thank-you cards on-site. These little touches go a long way in turning a fun event into a memorable one.
2. Deliver a summer survival kit
Think practical and personal. A small tote with sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, maybe even a cooling towel or bug spray. Add a handwritten note that says, “Just wanted to help you stay cool this summer — thanks again for trusting me with your real estate journey.”
Bonus: Include a magnet or postcard with a quick summer home maintenance checklist — they’ll appreciate the thoughtfulness and your expertise.
3. Create and share a local summer guide
Be the neighborhood expert who goes beyond real estate. Put together a well-designed, branded-to-you list or PDF of local concerts, farmers’ markets, splash pads, kid-friendly events or date night ideas.
Teaching moment: This shows you know (and love) your community. It’s also shareable — clients may forward it to friends, expanding your reach organically.
4. Offer a free home checkup or seasonal maintenance reminder
Team up with a trusted local contractor or handyman and offer complimentary or discounted check-ups for things like A/C units, gutters or sprinkler systems. Or simply send a branded summer maintenance checklist with your favorite vendor recommendations.
Why it matters: It positions you as a homeowner ally, not just a sales rep. People remember the agent who made their life easier — even years after closing.
5. Drop off a sweet treat
Surprise and delight goes a long way. A small cooler of popsicles on the porch, a fruit basket with a ribbon or even a $5 gift card to the local ice cream shop with a punny note like, “Real estate is sweet — thanks to you!”
What to know: These don’t need to be extravagant. They need to be timely and thoughtful. That’s what gets remembered.
6. Send a personalized market update
Take a few minutes to send a quick check-in: “Hey! Just wanted to share what’s happening in your neighborhood right now — your home’s value may surprise you.” Attach a mini CMA or video message.
Pro insight: This isn’t just a pitch — it’s a service. It keeps your clients informed and shows that you’re still actively invested in their biggest investment.
7. Celebrate milestones that matter
Home anniversaries. Birthdays. New babies. First summer in a new home. These are easy to track (CRM, anyone?) — but so often missed. A handwritten card, a bottle of lemonade with a bow or even just a call can rekindle client connections.
Tip: Use your phone’s reminders, or set up recurring calendar events so you don’t miss these moments.
8. Host a fun summer giveaway
Make it seasonal and simple. “Enter to win a backyard BBQ basket!” or “Tell us your favorite summer memory for a chance to win local concert tickets.” Keep the entry tied to your business — maybe a photo of their home, a testimonial or referral.
Why it works: Giveaways create engagement. People love free stuff, and they love sharing with others even more.
9. Send a handwritten note — No strings attached
No marketing. No QR code. Just a real thank-you. Something like, “This time of year always reminds me how grateful I am for the clients who’ve trusted me. Hope you’re having a great summer.”
Fact: A handwritten note stands out 10x more than any email or text — and it costs you less than a dollar. Clients aren’t loyal to agents who simply “close the deal.” They’re loyal to agents who stay connected.
Summer is the perfect time to be the exception. To show up when no one else is. To deliver gratitude when others go silent. To stay top of mind — not with gimmicks, but with genuine care.
You don’t have to do all nine. Just start with one. Then do another. Then repeat. Because when your business is built on relationships, referrals aren’t luck — they’re the natural result.
And if you ever need a little inspiration or a boost of encouragement, you’re in the right place. Inman’s full of the kind of agents, ideas and stories that help you grow stronger in every season.
Stay generous. Stay present. Stay human. You’ve got this.
Darryl Davis is the CEO of Darryl Davis Seminars. Connect with him on Facebook or YouTube.
