A housewarming gift is a nice gesture of friendship. Giving one that delights the host is even better!

But choosing the right gift is not always easy. Based on my own experience buying gifts for friends with new HDB homes they are proud to show off, here is my suggestion on 5 types of gifts for 5 types of friends.

The Practical One

We all have a practical friend who prefers functional gifts over decorative ones any day. This is why you need to give them useful gifts. An appliance such as an induction plate (for steamboat parties) or a vacuum cleaner (to clean up after everyone) would be great gifts.

The Gamer

Your gamer friend may have already bought a gaming console for his daily digital escapade. But you can help wean him off techno games by gifting people-friendly board games that all of you can play at the housewarming party!

The Cook

Not everyone is lucky enough to know such a friend, but those who do will greatly treasure this ‘gastronomic’ friendship. We should support their culinary adventures by preparing a starter kit of planted herbs that is useful for the dishes that we love (you guessed it, I am the practical friend). Basil, oregano, and chilli plants can survive well in Singapore’s tropical climate – pick one or a trio and pack them in a pretty pot!

The Fur Parent

Chances are your animal lover friend has a hamster, rabbit or pooch, so buying something for their beloved pet is a no-brainer. If your friend does not mind, check what their pet’s favourite snack is and bring some as a housewarming gift so everyone can get to feed the pet.

The New Parent

The best housewarming gift for new parents would be one that can edu-tain (educate and entertain) their baby. Not only will it keep baby happy during the party, it also helps build better neuron connections so that baby can grow up smart and sharp.