Move-in day can go two ways — total chaos or total wow.
For residents, that first day isn’t just about unpacking. It’s about starting fresh, finding comfort and feeling like they made the right choice.
And for property managers? It’s a golden opportunity to make a lasting impression — one that can set the tone for the entire lease.
We asked property managers across the country how they make move-in day memorable. The responses were full of creativity, care and serious intention. Modern leasing teams are no longer settling for the bare minimum. They’re finding smart, personal and often delightfully unexpected ways to make new residents feel seen, welcomed and at home from the moment they walk in.
From amenities that make everyday life easier (and actually get used), to personalized welcome kits and first-day touches that go way beyond the basics, here are six real-world ways property teams are transforming move-in day into something worth remembering.
1. Prepare their new space like you were expecting company.
It’s easy to underestimate how powerful those first few moments can be — until you see a resident’s face when they walk into a thoughtfully prepared space.
Many teams go all in on day-one details that feel intuitive and caring. Water bottles in the fridge. Lights already turned on. A note waiting on the counter. A small stack of moving essentials: toilet paper, a sponge, dish soap.
🔑 “We provide everything they might forget — tools, cleaning supplies, even food. It’s small but appreciated.”
🔑 “We give them a move-in gift when they arrive.”
🔑 “We place cold water bottles in the fridge.”
🔑 “We provide the move-in necessities — toilet paper, dish soap, sponge — to help with the transition.”
These may not be grand gestures, but they’re practical, timed just right, and show that you’ve thought of what your new resident might need before they even ask.
2. Skip the boring key handoff. Give them the VIP tour.
A clipboard and a keycard won’t cut it anymore. New residents want to feel like they’re being welcomed into something special — not just handed a unit number.
Some teams are turning move-ins into mini orientation tours. Whether that’s walking the resident to their front door or guiding them through common areas and showing off amenities with personality and pride, it all helps establish comfort.
🔑 “We walk them to the apartment when they move in.”
🔑 “We like to show them everything they’d want to see — not just the basics.”
🔑 “We go over the different features of our community and include documents to refer back to — it’s a lot to take in at once.”
🔑 “We send all move-in requirements with ample time so they feel prepared.”
Residents may not remember every word — but they’ll absolutely remember how you made them feel. It sets the tone for the rest of the relationship.
3. Snacks and soundtracks = instant good mood.
Residents are usually expecting stress, paperwork and a long to-do list. That’s why a few fun, unexpected touches can go a long way.
Some property managers go big with themed events. Others keep it simple — but thoughtful — with refreshments, upbeat playlists and branded swag.
🔑 “We always have a move-in theme and make all snacks, shirts, etc. centered around the theme.”
🔑 “We host a Welcome Home event with music, snacks, and fun activities to help residents settle in and connect with neighbors.”
🔑 “We offer free catered food and giveaways.”
🔑 “We set up a welcome station with refreshments and matching shirts for the staff.”
These moments don’t just reduce day-one stress. They make people feel like they’re moving into a community that genuinely cares.
4. Be the team they text their friends about.
Great service is a day-one differentiator. When you show up with real warmth, helpful follow-up and a personal touch, it leaves a lasting impression.
🔑 “I personally follow up with all new residents to make sure they had the best experience possible.”
🔑 “We provide the best customer service possible to make the move-in experience seamless.”
🔑 “We remember conversations from their lease signing and use those moments to connect.”
🔑 “We greet residents with a warm welcome, a personalized gift bag, and refreshments to keep the energy high.”
Whether it’s remembering a resident’s dog’s name or staying late to troubleshoot a last-minute question, it’s these moments that drive word-of-mouth loyalty.
The common thread? People remember people. The ones who take time to check in. The ones who offer help before it’s asked. The ones who make day one feel like the beginning of something good.
5. Help them feel capable, not confused.
Moving is already overwhelming — and no one wants to start off unsure where to find the Wi-Fi password or when trash pickup happens.
That’s why so many teams are focusing on practical, clear and well-timed information. A simple guide. A helpful checklist. A gift bag with basics. These things make move-in day feel organized — not chaotic.
🔑 “We include a welcome packet with key info and reminders.”
🔑 “We provide folders they can refer back to once the move-in rush settles.”
🔑 “We add cleaning supplies, tools, and snacks to our gift bags.”
🔑 “We place a move-in checklist and apartment amenities list in the unit so residents know exactly what’s included and where to find it.”
The best move-in experience? One that leaves new residents thinking, 'Wow, they really thought of everything.'
6. Deliver comfort when it counts.
You know what makes a huge difference at 7 a.m. on move-in day? A good cup of coffee. — especially when the French press is still packed.
That’s why more and more properties are investing in smart, everyday amenities like SipWithMe. They offer residents a way to ease into their day without digging through boxes or running out to the store.
The same goes for printing. The same goes for printing. It might not be exciting, but having a secure, 24/7 printer is an underrated game-changer.
🔑 “We offer 24/7 access to printing so residents can take care of documents without asking staff.”
With PrintWithMe’s self-serve setup, residents get what they need — without turning your front desk into tech support. These kinds of amenities might seem simple, but they make a big difference in how supported your residents feel.
7. Make it more than just a move — make it a moment.
Move-in day is about more than where someone lives. It’s about how they feel when they get there.
🔑 “Making them feel welcomed and happy is the most important thing.”
Whether it’s a small gift, a handwritten card, a playlist in the lobby or simply a warm smile — these touches don’t cost much, but they mean everything.
Ready to create unforgettable move-ins?
You don’t need a huge budget to create a move-in experience residents remember — you just need the right details, executed with care. WithMe’s essential apartment building amenities ー fully managed coffee and printing stations ー help property teams deliver comfort, convenience and connection right from the start. Let’s talk about how we can help you turn everyday move-ins into lasting impressions.
