4 Valentine's Day Ideas for Residents: Improve Resident Retention

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and who better to show a little love to than your residents? Simple gestures can go a long way in improving resident retention rates. In addition to consistent resident communication, going the extra mile around holidays is a great way to engage your residents.

While in-person gatherings may not be possible due to COVID-19, there are plenty of safe ways to show your residents how much you appreciate them. Here are a few of our favorites:

1. Hot Chocolate Kits

Help your residents warm up this winter! Placing hot chocolate kits in your lobby or clubhouse can be a great sweet treat for residents. Put a packet of hot chocolate and a few marshmallows in a bag tied with ribbon, add a sweet message and you’re done!

2. Valentine’s Selfie Station

Setting up a themed selfie station is a fun way to get residents engaging with your property on social media! Add some streamers, paper hearts, balloons or other fun decorations to a wall (with good lighting!) and tell your residents to stop by and snap a photo.

Make sure they tag you on social media (bonus points if you come up with a fun hashtag). To boost engagement, consider making it a contest. Anyone who takes a selfie and tags your property on social media is entered to win a gift card. Not only is this a great way to engage with your residents—it also boosts brand awareness to their connections.

3. Candy-grams

You can never go wrong with candy on Valentine’s Day. Putting together small bags of candy is a fast, easy way to show your residents you appreciate them. Include a heart-shaped note with the candy, and you’re good to go!

4. Heart Hunt

If your property has a decent grounds area, consider leveraging your residents’ cabin fever with a fun scavenger hunt. Place hearts in heavily trafficked areas of your property (clubhouses, fitness centers, playgrounds, etc.). Leave instructions to return the heart to the leasing office for a prize. This can be a great excuse for residents to get outside and stretch their legs a bit after being cooped up for a while.