Won't you be my neighbour?
You've put the offer on the home, you've gotten the inspections. And now you're moving in. What now?
Although I do home inspections all over Surrey, Langley, White Rock, well, everywhere in the Lower Mainland, there are a few things in common with all of them.
Families that want to connect. Neighbourhoods. And the opportunity to create great memories.
Once upon a time, there were neighbourhoods where the kids roamed free, neighbours knew each other by their first names, and looked out for each other.
Truth be told, my neighbourhood is a little bit like that still. We've been there for each other in so many ways. When I was away for the weekend, my next door neighbour phoned and said that for some reason my garage door was left open. He went the extra mile, running quickly into the garage, hitting the button and running out. Other neighbours have been there when a family member was in the hospital, bringing flowers. Kids have played together, growing up to still be friends. The memories gathered from staying in one place was a great gift.
Building community can still be done — one neighbour at a time.
Getting to know the people who live nearby helps create a sense of belonging and shared identity in our local area. It also helps to strengthen connections and trust in our wider communities and contributes to a happier neighbourhood for everyone.
Sometimes it's obvious what we can do and other times it's not. We don't have to make big gestures - small things can make a difference too. It might take a bit of confidence but it gets easier. Here are some ideas of ways to connect:
- If you regularly pass someone in your street start by smiling and saying hello. Find an opportunity to introduce yourself. Tell them a little about you and what you enjoy about the area - then ask them what they like too. You could even invite them over for a drink or chat.
- If someone new moves in close by then make them feel welcome. Take the opportunity to introduce yourself and offer to help with any questions about the local area. For example you could offer advice on when bins are collected, where the bus leaves from, local facilities etc.
- If you're new to an area, be sure to go round and introduce yourself to your neighbours. Tell them what brought you to the area and find out a bit about them and their lives.
- Look out for ways you can help your neighbours and don't be afraid to ask if you need support too. Giving support and receiving it from others improves our happiness and well-being
- Look out for opportunities to connect with people in your local community — for example a local community group, residents association, volunteer opportunity, exercise/activity class, book group etc. Try checking out local websites or keeping an eye on local notice boards etc.
- Your local newspaper has a DATEBOOK section. Read it for upcoming events or groups that you can be a part of.