Moving to a new neighborhood can be both exciting and stressful all at the same time. You may be asking yourself, who are my neighbors? Are they going to be nice? Will you have anything in common with them? These are all valid questions. This is where you need to be proactive, possibly step out of your comfort zone and start reaching out to your neighbors. Below are a few ways you can start to get to know your new neighbors without trying too hard.

Say Hello

As the old saying goes, “you can catch more flies with honey, than with vinegar”. Just be nice and when you see someone in the neighborhood say hello and introduce yourself. Don’t be shy to smile or scared to say hello. Also to make a good impression, try complimenting them about something (their yard, their home, etc…), this could open the door for some more dialog and possibly a way to reach some common ground.

Stay Outdoors

If you have a patio or a nice yard in front of your home, stay outside and catch people when they are driving by or walking by. You may notice other neighbors who enjoy being outside, socializing, drinking, etc…A good way to get accustomed to your surroundings and acquainted with your neighbors is to show yourself and be visible to your neighbors. Also try and find out if there are any neighborhood functions or events you can join.

Get Involved

Meeting neighbors is always the easiest way to get used to your new surroundings, however it is important to also get involved in the local community. Look for volunteer opportunities close by, gyms, churches, clubs, etc….In your neighborhood you may be the catalyst they need to start a book club, a neighborhood watch program or a community wide garage sale. These are several ways to get to know people.

Children and Animals

Many times meeting people through your children or animals can also open the door wide open to meeting your neighbors. If you move to a new neighborhood your kids are starting from scratch. They are going to want to find friends they can play with in the neighborhood. If you see children outside, go and introduce your child to them and then you can also introduce yourself to their parents. If the kids play well together this can further open the door to play dates, barbecues, etc…If you have a dog, explore the neighborhood with your dog in tow, you will definitely meet other animal lovers doing the same thing.

Make the First Move

Get to know your neighbors. I typically recommend once you move in go 3 homes to your right and left and introduce yourself to those who are closest to your new home. It can be an uncomfortable step, however the sooner you get to know those living around you, the faster you will get adjusted with your new home. Once you have met your neighbors try inviting them for a barbecue, dinner or drinks one evening. There are several ways to meet you new neighbors; these are just a few suggestions that can help break the ice.