Your house move is finalized and you have move in an unpacked successfully. All you are left with is to dive in to the area and get to know the people of your new surroundings. Neighbours are that one part of your relocation you could not and must not avoid. Getting to know your neighbors will help you feel more welcome in the area. From your neighbours you can get useful information about anything that concerns your new city and neighbourhood. Here are few tips on how to befriend your neighbours and make yourself feel more at home by being surrounded by people you actually know.
Introduce yourself
When you move into a new place, try and introduce yourself to the neighbours. By this we don’t mean marching round all the nearest doors the very day you move in, but make the effort when you see any neighbours in the first week or two to introduce yourself and have a quick chat. Likewise, if you notice a new neighbour moving in, introduce yourself to them when you get the opportunity. A really useful tip is to write down the names and house number of anyone you meet so that you don’t forget it!
Ask questions
When you are new to the area, neighbours can be a great source of local information from the nearest doctor’s surgery to a good plumber to the best local pub. Everyone loves to give an opinion and people are usually happy to share their local recommendations!
Be a good neighbour
If you want to be friends, be a good neighbour. The main problems between neighbours tend to arise over noise, parking and DIY/building works. Keep the noise down, especially first thing and late at night. If you’re planning any building work, let your neighbours know and give them and idea of what to expect – it’s important to note here that you are not seeking their permission, but you are simply keeping them informed. Be a considerate neighbour and try to treat them as you would like them to treat you.
Listen to any concerns
Despite the suggestions in the last point, sometimes problems do arise. If a neighbour feels the need to come and speak to you about a concern, listen and acknowledge their views. They might have a complaint about something you consider too trivial or it might be serious – either way, listen to what they have to say and try to have a reasonable, grown-up discussion about it.
Give them space
Some people love to become best friends with their neighbours while others prefer to stay on simple nodding terms. Don’t force a friendship and respect your new neighbour’s self-imposed boundaries. That way, you will hopefully maintain a good neighbourly relationship that suits everyone.