From introductions to sharing information, the experts at Good Move have revealed their seven top tips to help new neighbours feel welcome.
1. Introduce yourself
The best way to make new neighbours feel welcome is to establish an initial connection with them. This will show that you are making an effort at welcoming them into the community and therefore help them to feel more at ease.
However, timing is key – you should always wait a couple of days before doing so. Nobody wants to hold a conversation when carrying an armful of boxes.
2. Share relevant information
If you're new in the area, it can take some time to discover the neighbourhood. Therefore, it can be incredibly helpful to offer advice on everything from local handymen to the best takeaway in the area.
Maybe take over some local takeaway menus and business cards for them to browse.
3. Invite them to neighbourhood social media groups
In the digital age, many neighbourhoods have social media groups where the community can keep in touch and share local information with one another. It’s therefore good to let new neighbours know of this - so they can keep up to speed.
However, do not add them on social media as this can be invasive. This can be a personal space for many people, and it may make some people uncomfortable!
4. Send over a food hamper
Another good way to welcome neighbours is to send over a hamper filled with goodies – local produce is an especially good way to introduce them to local delicacies!
However, do be mindful that they may have food allergies, so it may be a good idea to avoid ingredients such as nuts and dairy.
5. Host a gathering
The best way to integrate new neighbours is by getting the community together in a relaxed environment. Perhaps you can hold an event that welcomes the rest of the neighbours you can extend an invitation to them.
This can be everything from an informal BBQ to a small dog walk with other people on the street.
6. Offer help
We get by with a little help from our friends – therefore offering small acts of assistance can really help new neighbours feel settled,
Once you’ve established an acquaintance, perhaps you could offer to pet-sit or watch out for any parcels when they’re not around.
7. Respect boundaries
Most of all, it is always important to respect boundaries. While you may be an outgoing extrovert, there is the possibility that your new acquaintance may be an introvert who isn’t comfortable with close encounters.
Therefore, be mindful of their body language, and don’t be too overbearing at first. For example, if they tend not to continue the conversation, it may be a sign they wish to keep to themselves.
Nima Ghasri, director at Good Move, adds: “With house transactions rising categorically over the past year, there is a chance many of us will be welcoming new neighbours in the coming months. However, although it is important to be friendly and welcoming to new neighbours, you should always be mindful of boundaries.”
“We hope our top tips will help people give those new neighbours that warm welcome they deserve!”
