Meet your new neighbours: how to introduce yourself to your new community
Getting to know your neighbours is a sure way to help you feel at home. When you move into a new build home, most of your neighbours are in the same boat. Here’s how to introduce yourself to your new neighbours and get the community going.
Just say ‘hello’
Getting to know new people, even neighbours, can seem daunting at first - so start with a simple hello!
When you’re moving in, people may be moving in at the same time, so just say hello and introduce yourself! That’s the hardest part done.
You could also walk around the development, which is easy to do with Russell Homes as they are beautifully landscaped, with play areas and paths throughout for afternoon walks. It will help you get familiar with your new surroundings but also gives you an opportunity to say hello to more neighbours and have some friendly chit-chat.
‘New home’ cards
Not everybody wants to go door knocking to say hello, and you never know if you might be interrupting. So instead, you could pick up some ‘new home’ cards, welcoming your neighbours to their new homes and offering a quick introduction on paper. You can add your name and house number, and maybe even your phone number.
Post the cards through letterboxes and introduce yourself that way. It gives people a chance to return the gesture or get back to you in some way if they want to!
Start a Facebook group
Many streets and communities have a local Facebook group to communicate in, including some of our existing developments. They’re a great way to communicate goings-on within the community such as bonfire night or Halloween trick-or-treating.
An online group is a great way for neighbours to get to know each other if they’re not keen on door knocking. It also creates a space to ask about bin days, sell furniture, get details for gardeners or ask for a bit of sugar for a cuppa. One thing we learned during lockdowns was the importance of community, and a Facebook group helps nurture that community support.
Arrange a street party
Why wait for a Jubilee or royal wedding to have a street party? Simply creating a new community is enough of a celebration!
A street party is a great way for neighbours to get to know each other in a laid back manner, and if you’ve started a Facebook group, that’s a great way to put the idea out there and see if the street is up for it. It’s a real community effort, with everyone bringing a dish, donating furniture to sit on and having fun decorating festively. With the British weather, we do suggest leaving this one for Summer!
Start your new community
In the past, Russell Homes have run events to celebrate the launch of new communities and happenings on your development. They’re a great start, but you can introduce yourself too!
If you’re looking for a new build home then take a look at our available homes today.