How to Meet your Neighbors

While times have changed, we do need to change with them. It is not like it used to be, where it was easy to get to know your neighbors. Today in 2010, often times people are too private or seem unapproachable.

In past years often times you could show up on your neighbor’s doorstep with a fresh batch of brownies or a request for some sugar; rare are the chats with a neighbor over the back fence.   However, Times have changed, and we need to be able change with them.

New times necessitate new methods; and the ways one gets to know neighbors is no exception. With a pinch of courage and a small dose of creativity, you might not be ready to swap keys with your new neighbors, but budding relations you will have.

Here are some simple ways to get to know those around you:

Get to know your neighbors with a bang: throw a party. City or suburb, there’s hardly a bigger attraction than free alcohol and snacks. You’ll have to muster up the courage to go door-to-door and personally invite all your neighbors. If you have a yard you can barbecue, or if not, make sure you supply plenty of cupcakes and brownies and all the other stuff that neighbors like to share.

You can beautify a landscape and fortify newfound friendships. We know someone who planted a tree with a new neighbor; now they get together regularly to water it. If you like someone’s garden, then stop by and mention it, and don’t hesitate to offer help--who could turn that down!

Are you living in the suburbs or having to commute for work?  Do everyone’s Kids go to the same the school? A great idea would be to offer to carpool. It could be that you and some of your neighbors are taking the same route to work every day, alone. Help out the environment, your wallets, and build a sense of community, all at the same time!

Pets can really bring people together. Make a section of a nearby park into an informal dog-run. Or just walk your dogs together. Put up signs in your local grocery store suggesting a time and place for the pooch party, and don’t forget to bring the doggie treats!

Have a group garage sale! For apartment dwellers, it’s called a stoop sale. Whatever you call it, they’re great ways to clear out your closets, make a little cash, and become acquainted with the nearby Locals.

And of course, the best thing you can do is just get in the habit of saying hello. It might sound obvious, but it’s easy to go about your day oblivious to those around you. Smiling and saying hello are the most basic—and the most useful—ways to get to know a neighbor.

For more information regarding the Keyes Relocation Program, call Kathy at 954-347-0244 or fill out the form below.