Rental Report: 10 Gifts Under $50 for Apartment Dwellers

Editor’s Note: This biweekly sponsored column is written by Rick Gersten, founder and CEO of Urban Igloo, a rental real estate firm that matches up renters with their ideal apartments, condos or houses. Please submit any questions in the comments section or via email.

The season of giving is upon us, and we have some great gift ideas to spruce up any new home, especially if they are tight on space. Here is our list of 10 great gifts under $50.

The Practical Gift — A Crock Pot is an excellent idea for everyone, whether you are a busy student, or a family on the go. You can make simple, healthy meals in a pinch, without needing a microwave, oven or stove. Available at Amazon for $39.99.

If you are feeling a little generous, throw in a cookbook like Cooking Light Slow Cooker Tonight!

For the Cook — An eight-piece Nesting Bowl set is a great gift for the person who loves to cook but is tight on space. With two mixing bowls, a colander, a sieve, and 4 measuring cups, they could have what they need to make you something tasty as a thank you! Available at Bed Bath & Beyond for $34.99.

Keep Warm — Soft, cozy Sherpa throw blankets are a great gift for someone who loves to snuggle up on the couch with a good book in the winter. Multiple colors are available to match any décor, and at a price of $22.77 at Amazon, you might even want to pick one up for yourself.

For the Host – Keep that new furniture looking sharp while entertaining with stylish Antique Silver Coasters from Pottery Barn. At $29, these coasters are a great gift that will work with just about any home style.

For the Beer Enthusiast — Hopefully the recipient of Pilsner Glasses can make room in the freezer because beer just tastes better in a chilled glass. These attractive glasses are perfect for entertaining or settling in on the couch after a long day’s work. A set of four is $39.80 (sold individually for $9.95) from Crate & Barrel.

Keep It Simple — When you just don’t know what to do, a wood cutting board is a great idea. This works great to chop up fresh fruits and veggies or to serve appetizers like a charcuterie spread. Either way, you can’t go wrong. This one is from the Martha Stewart Collection at Macy’s for $29.99.

Pizza, Pizza, Pizza — Who doesn’t love pizza? Use a simple homemade pizza crust recipe, and throw on fresh ingredients, and this pizza stone will be a go to item to make a quick, easy dinner. Pizza Stone available at Target for $26.99.

Grilling Without the Grill — Since most apartments and condos do not allow grills, the next best thing for a healthy grilled dinner is to use a grill pan. With easy clean up and storage, a grill pan is also great when cooking for one. This Calphalon Grill Pan is available at Kohl’s for $49.99.

Just for Fun — If you know someone who loves frozen treats and has a little extra counter space, this might be the perfect gift. The Magic Bullet Dessert Bullet makes delicious, fruity treats in just a few seconds, making it the perfect choice to calm that post workout sweet craving. Available at Bed Bath & Beyond for $39.99.

When All Else Fails — When in doubt, grab a nice basket ($14.99 at Michaels) and fill it up with coffee, fresh fruit and maybe a gift card to the nearest grocery store. The basket can be used later for much needed storage, and the items you throw in will be much appreciated while they settle in to their new place.

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