How to Help a New Homeowner

Over the course of moving into my new home these past few weeks, I've had friends and family offer to help with the process.

I didn't take them up on it.

Except for the Father-In-Law who is a super handyman.

The problem is, moving is kind of an intimate sport. You don't want people unpacking your things. They don't know where it goes and you can't have three people asking you, "Where do you want this?"

The best advice is to certainly offer a helping hand, but know it probably won't be accepted. And don't be offended by that.

I just want to take my time moving into my new space. Of course, my tune could change in two weeks when I STILL can't find my hairdryer.

However, I enjoy house warming gifts. Well, I enjoy the wine bottle that is the typical housewarming gift.

If you want to help someone, drop off a much-needed housewarming gift. Below are some ideas I wish I had while moving:

1. Massage gift certificate

2. Tons of Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. I went over my walls with them and it works wonders.

3. My sister-in-law brought over cookie dough on a plate all ready to pop in the oven. You can freeze it, or make it right then and there. How cool is that?

4. Other cleaning supplies - like towels and rags. One can never have enough towels and rags.

5. References for a handyman, electrician, interior decorator. Or, but them a gift subscripition to Angie's List. I just bought a subscription and EVERYTHING I've done - from changing the locks to cleaning the carpet - was from Angie's List.

6. Try to avoid material things like cutsie signs or decor. Once you move 2000 lbs of boxes and furniture, cutsie signs just don't hold their value anymore.

7. Gift cards to local places to eat. Bonus points for non-chain restaurants and bars.

Hopefully this gave you some ideas for the next time a friend or relative moves. What have you given as a housewarming gift?