Moving house can be nerve-wracking. There’s just so much to do! The house needs to be packed, finances need to be sorted, local movers need to be hired…the list is almost endless! This is why it is so important to hire a reliable and competent moving company to lessen your burden.
After moving house, the next major task is to get settled in your new home. Do you worry about the unfamiliarity of a new neighborhood? Getting to know your neighbors is a wonderful way to feel familiar with your new surroundings. The sooner you make friends in your new neighborhood, the more at home you’ll feel!
You might be uncertain about how to break the ice with your neighbors, so I’ve gathered some foolproof tips to help you out.
Send food to your neighbors.
I’m sure you’ve heard the old adage, ”the way to man’s heart is through his stomach”. Well, I’d modify this to say that the way to ANYONE’s heart is through their stomach! So bake a fresh batch of brownies or make lasagne using your grandmother’s secret recipe and head on over to your neighbor’s house to introduce yourself. You’d be pleasantly surprised at how quickly people warm up to someone who gives them food! As Linda Grayson said, “There is nothing better than a friend unless it is a friend with chocolate.”
Invite your neighbors over for a party.
If you want to meet a bunch of people in one go, you can host a housewarming party! You may host the party indoors or outdoors, depending on the season and how much space you have. You might even consider hosting a potluck every month to catch up with your new friends and find out how everyone’s doing.
Go to the park to meet other families.
If you’re a parent, one great way to meet families in your neighborhood is to go to the park with your kids. While your kids are busy making new friends, you’ll get to chat with other parents. It’s a win-win for all of you.
Join activities at the community center.
If you’re hesitant about going directly to someone’s house to say hi, you can join your local charity group or sign up for classes at the community center. You’ll get to know your neighbors in a pleasant environment and learn a new skill too!
Send holiday greetings to your neighbors.
Holidays provide a fantastic opportunity to connect with new people. If you happen to move homes around Christmas, New Year’s, Easter, Halloween, or any other holiday, give your neighbors a greeting card and a homemade gift! They’re likely to appreciate and reciprocate the gesture, leading to the beginning of a new friendship.
Just wave and say hi!
If you come across a neighbor while walking your dog or someone passes by while you’re mowing the lawn, just smile and wave at them! People will sense your friendliness and probably pause for a chat. You can invite them inside your home for a cuppa and voila! You’ve made a new friend.
If you’re considering Moving House in NYC or have recently shifted in the new neighborhood, I hope you found these tips useful. How did you get to know your neighbors? Leave a comment below to let me know!