Behind the Portrait: House Portraits as Thoughtful Closing Gifts

There’s something timeless about a home—not just the walls and windows, but the stories that unfolded there. Whether it's the first home a couple bought together, the place a family grew up in, or a house that marked a new chapter, these spaces hold more than bricks and mortar. They hold memory. And that's exactly what I aim to capture with my custom watercolor house portraits.

In this installment of Behind the Painting, I want to share a little behind-the-scenes look into how I create house portraits that have become a favorite among realtors looking for truly heartfelt closing gifts. These portraits aren't just art pieces; they’re a way to wrap up one chapter and celebrate the beginning of another. If you're searching for a unique closing gift that clients will remember and treasure, a watercolor house portrait is just that.

Each portrait starts with a conversation and a photo (or several). I study everything from the textures of the facade to the curve of the walkway and the shape of the front hedges. Then comes the pencil sketch—the very first look that my clients get. I send this for approval before any color touches the paper. It’s their chance to make small edits and ensure every detail is just as they remember.

Once the sketch gets the green light, I move on to the painting stage. This is where the house truly comes to life. No roof tile or flower pot is overlooked. Every element is carefully chosen to feel both personal and true.

I offer the finished portraits both framed and unframed, depending on how the client wants to present it. Either way, each one arrives in a carefully wrapped package, tied with a bow—ready to be handed over as a beautiful, heartfelt closing gift.

I know that these types of gifts are often required within a very tight schedule, especially in the world of real estate. That’s why I always keep additional calendar slots reserved for realtors. Just let me know when you need it by, and I’ll do my absolute best to get it over to you just in time.

Real estate is full of checklists and paperwork. A watercolor house portrait is the opposite of that: it’s emotional, lasting, and deeply personal. It’s something clients will hang up proudly in their next home, and every time they see it, they’ll think not only of the house they loved but also of the realtor who thought to give them something so unique.

These portraits aren’t mass-produced or generic. They’re as unique as each home—and I take great pride in capturing them with care and heart.

If you're a realtor looking for a special way to say "thank you" or "congratulations," or someone who simply wants to honor the home that shaped a part of your life, I’d love to create a custom house portrait for you. It’s a unique closing gift your clients will never forget.