It doesn’t matter if you’re new to a community or have lived in your neighbourhood for many years, being on good terms with your neighbours has more benefits than just making new friends. It makes communities safer, neighbourhoods friendlier and creates a more comfortable environment for everyone. Whether you just moved into a new home, or want to welcome some newcomers, here’s some ideas for getting to know your neighbours:
- Introduce yourself: do you remember what it was like when you moved into your neighbourhood? It can be intimidating for new homeowners, especially single buyers and those with kids to not know anyone in their community. Take the first step and say hello.
- Help them move in: moving is hard work, why not start off on a good foot by getting a few people from the community together to help your new neighbours move in? The work will get done quicker, and you’ll have more time to get to know the new folks on the block.
- Share neighbourhood safety information: give your new neighbours a list of of all the neighbourhood contacts they need to ensure a safe homecoming for their family: block parents, community centres, first responders, etc.
- Connect them with local opportunities: let your new neighbours know about community associations, organizations, volunteer opportunities, sports teams, etc. Remember, they are new to your area, so you’ll want to keep them in the know on how to get involved and meet more people.
- Be considerate of the lifestyles of others: familiarize with the work schedules of your neighbours (especially if you have shared walls). For example, those who work night shifts will appreciate quieter mornings.
- Be in control of your pets: follow City bylaws and ensure your animals are leashed up when out of your yard, and clean up after them.
- Give the head’s up: this goes with the last tip, but alert your neighbours before you have parties so that the increased noise isn’t a surprise to them. It’s always good to be cautious of the time and noise level at night as well.
- Communication is key: keep your neighbours in the loop on when you’ll be leaving town, and when events are coming up, etc. This will allow everyone to keep an eye on each other’s homes and keep the area safer. It also creates a stronger sense of community.
- Offer to help out: if you know your neighbours are going out of town, offer to feed their pets or water their flowers. Perhaps you have an older child who can babysit for them? Invite them to take part in your upcoming garage sale, and offer to invite them over for a coffee once in awhile.
- Spread good karma: when it’s snowing, take the few extra steps and shovel their walkway when you can, or offer to help them when building a deck or fence. If you have the time and the ability, lend a helping hand.
