We’ve all been there. Budgets are the bane of the property manager’s existence, and it can limit our ability to do resident activities. With the growing uncertainty of COVID-19, budgets are tighter than ever and there’s not always a way to pull off a successful resident event without money to fall back on. Or is there? Here are some very budget friendly ideas for your next event!

Patio/Door Decorating Contest

Tap into your residents’ creativity and give them something to do when they’re stuck at home during the holidays! All it would cost you is a small prize of some kind. You could offer $25 off their next month’s rent, or even put together a gift basket with items donated from a few local businesses in exchange for advertising. You’d be surprised how many companies will offer product for some free advertising!

Find A Local Sponsor

Plenty of companies would bend over backwards for free advertising, especially small local businesses that could use the exposure. Try hitting up your local towing company that services your property, your carpet cleaners, and even housekeeping. Send out a few flyers in exchange for their sponsorship to cover event expenses, and your residents will be grateful for the referral! You could also try asking local storage facilities, moving companies and rent to own furniture companies. These places have a set budget for advertising and are usually able to either outright sponsor your event, or provide a prize to give away!

 Hold A Potluck Lunch 

Let’s face it, everyone loves to eat. Food is a worldwide unifier and no one can deny it. Give your residents a chance to show off their cooking skills and come together to get to know one another. Always clear it with your local city ordinances first, but this is a super inexpensive way to get to know your residents on a more personal level and have fun!