It’s easy to spot a new addition to your neighborhood, the moving truck in the driveway and the flurry of people in and out with boxes are a dead giveaway. You want to start things off on the right foot but it can be awkward to find the new owners and steal a few minutes with them to introduce yourself. So how and when should you introduce yourself to your new neighbors?
When to say “Hi!”
Any time within the first week of moving in is the best time to ring the door bell and say “hello.” Some buyers may have taken the initiative to talk to the existing owners in the neighborhood before purchasing their home so you may have had a few words with your new neighbors; even if this is the case you should still make the effort to welcome them “officially” to the neighborhood. Moving day itself is always hectic and a bit chaotic but if you see the new owners with a little bit of down time you can make your introductions quickly and let them get back to their work. If you stop by a day or two after the move, be mindful of the dinner hour or if they have small children, early afternoon which is prime nap time, before ringing the doorbell. Don’t try to shy away from the introduction by leaving a note when you know they’re not home unless you’ve tried without success to meet them face-to-face.
Make it short and sweet.
While you want to be welcoming and friendly to your new neighbor, you don’t want to burden them with the pressure to entertain you or take up their time while they’re still trying to settle their new home. Make your visit brief enough to welcome them to the neighborhood, let them know where you live, and any helpful information about the neighborhood (trash pick up day, best pizza place that delivers). Avoid talking badly about anyone in the neighborhood, unless you want to be labeled as the “gossipy” neighbor.
Don’t come empty handed.
We’ve all moved at least once in our lives and there was always that one thing we needed or wanted that would have made life a lot easier. Think about that one thing and bring it with you when you introduce yourself. Maybe it’s a few kitchen staples, cleaning products, or something particular to your area; when all else fails a perfectly good plate of cookies will always be welcomed.
It benefits you to be friendly.
While you don’t have to be friends with every one of your neighbors it definitely benefits everyone to know each other’s names. There’s safety and security in numbers and it’s always comforting to know your neighbors will keep an eye on your home while you’re away. It’s also reassuring to know the parents of the children your kids may play with daily. And who knows, maybe you’ll hit things off with your new neighbor and gain a friend.