‘Tis the season of giving. And that doesn’t mean just family and friends. If you live in NYC, it’s that time of year when you recognize the hard work of those people who make your life easier. This includes your building staff, your nanny, and even your dog walker. We understand that it can be stressful not only figuring out whom to tip but also how much to tip them. Here’s what you need to know.

Building staff

Do you live in a building with a superintendent, a doorman, or a maintenance staff? Then make sure you’re prepared to tip them well at the end of the year. Knowing exactly who to tip, how much to give them, and when to do it can get a bit sticky, but here are some good ballpark figures:

  • Super, resident manager: $75-$175
  • Doorman, concierge: $25-$150
  • Maintenance staff: $20-$30

Cash is king, and tipping early in December is preferable. If you want to know more, then check out our comprehensive guide to tipping your building staff here.

Parking attendant

If you’re one of the lucky souls who actually keeps a car in a garage in the city, then give yourself a pat on the back. You’re doing well. But your regular garage or parking attendant deserves a little more than a pat on the back. You should tip each attendant in your garage between $25-$100. Tip on the high end if you regularly use your car.

Cleaning person

Having someone tidy up your apartment for you is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Show your appreciation for your cleaning person by tipping up to one week’s pay – a little more if they are really awesome. If your cleaning person only comes once or twice a month, you can tip a little less.

Hairstylist/aesthetician

You know how hard it is to find a hair stylist that you love. Show them how much you appreciate their expertise by tipping the equivalent of one service. The same goes for any other aesthetician you see regularly, such as a massage therapist or a manicurist.

Babysitter/nanny

Finding great childcare in NYC is no easy feat. That’s why you need to take care of your babysitter and/or nanny over the holidays. For a babysitter, one night’s pay is a good rule of thumb. If you have a full-time nanny, you should tip anywhere between one week and one month’s pay. Paid time off is also appreciated this time of year. If your child attends daycare, consider tipping $25-$75 per provider.

Pet service provider

Don’t forget about those folks who take care of your best furry friend. If you have a regular dog walker, tip one day to one week’s pay. For groomers, tip them up to the cost of one grooming session. If you travel frequently and have a regular pet sitter, tip them up to the equivalent of one job.

Personal trainer

If you have the budget for a regular personal trainer, then you have the budget to tip your personal trainer during the holidays. You should tip them the equivalent of the cost of one session.

Mail carrier

Finally, it’s customary to tip your mail carrier at the end of the year. However, be aware that there is a legal limit to what they can accept. According to the USPS website, mail carriers can accept a gift worth $20 or less. Cash and gift cards are technically frowned upon, so you’ll have to get a little creative.

Contact Platinum Properties today

Are you ready to buy, sell, or rent real estate in NYC? Then click here or give us a call at 646-681-5272. We’re always available to answer all your questions and help you through the real estate process.