Four Quick Tips for Meeting Your New Neighbors 

In the age of online relationships and working remotely, breaking the ice and introducing yourself to strangers can feel more than a bit awkward. That said, it’s a step everyone needs to attempt in their journey to Finding Home, as well as the truest measure of whether the new neighborhood is really the right fit.  

So, what’s the best way to meet the folks next door? In this article we’ll give you some creative, non-creepy ideas to help you quickly get to know the neighbors and start building relationships. Check out these pro tips and tricks for mingling with the locals and turning the houses around you into homes filled with wonderful friends. 

Master the Three W’s 

By “Three W’s,” we mean “a wave and a warm welcome.” If the weather’s nice and you and the neighbor are both outside, a simple wave and hello across the lawn is a perfectly natural and normal way to get acquainted. Smile, make eye contact, and extend your hand for a firm handshake. Strike up a friendly conversation. Let them know your name and that you just moved in. A simple “Hi, my partner and I just moved in down the street. We’re excited to meet everyone” is all it takes. One word of advice: Try to introduce yourself within the first week or two of moving in. If you don’t “meet cute,” get up the courage to knock on their door and introduce yourself (if they haven’t already done so).  

Host an Open House 

Once your place looks and feels more settled in, having an open house or a housewarming party can be a wonderful way to get acquainted with the people on your block. Keep it low-key and casual: you’re not trying to impress them with anything but your warmth and good hospitality. Think cookies, lemonade and coffee versus cocktails and caviar. Always keep in mind that the goal is to meet people, not intimidate them.  

Get Out and Explore 

Since many move decisions are based on factors such as good schools and proximity to local amenities like parks and shopping, it only makes sense to acquaint yourself with your new surroundings. Get out, walk around and – if you have one – take your dog for a stroll. If it feels appropriate, strike up a casual conversation with people you encounter along the way. Remember, being the fresh face in a new neighborhood is noteworthy in and of itself. Use this to your advantage.  

Ask for Help 

Helping each other out is what builds community – and it doesn’t have to be just lending a hand with a minor home repair or yardwork. One of the most natural ways to meet someone and make a connection is to ask their recommendations for good restaurants, activities for the kids, a good mechanic and other things that require knowing the lay of the land. Your new neighbors will likely be more than happy to help you feel more at home – and you’ve just made some potential new BFFs in the process. 

Moving or About to Move?   

Whether you move yourself or use the services of a reputable professional mover like Mayflower, we hope your journey to Finding Home is smooth and successful.  

Get a no-obligation quote from Mayflower. Need tips on packing specific types of items? Check out our comprehensive tips and guides. And for more tips and advice, be sure to check out our state and city guides, decorating ideas and a wealth of other helpful, time-saving information.    

Oh, and did you know Mayflower has a channel on Spotify? Move and groove to tunes that get you to your new place – and settled in – in style.