Moving into a new home can be exciting but it’s often stressful at the same time. First, you probably spent a lot of time searching through the many Calgary homes for sale, endured piles of paperwork, more ups and downs than a roller coaster, and spent a significant amount of money, not to mention all the packing and unpacking.
Now that you’ve started to settle in, you’ll want to make the most of your new neighborhood, too. Making it a point to actively engage in the community as soon as possible will help you feel more comfortable in an unfamiliar environment.
Meet Your Neighbors
A survey by Ownerly conducted just before COVID-19 hit the U.S. revealed that there’s a lot of work that needs to be done when it comes to getting to know the people who live near you. Slightly over one in four of the respondents under 40 years old said they didn’t know any of their neighbors by name.
While the older you are the more likely you are to know them, no matter what your age one of the first things you should do is introduce yourself to residents in your community. Smile and say “hello” when you see them outside, or even knock on the door, perhaps bringing a gift like a potted plant or some baked goods, bringing the opportunity to develop a rapport over time. Not only is it a good way to make potential new friends and feel more established, but when neighbors know each other it decreases the risk of crime.
Join Your Community Online
Nextdoor and community groups on Facebook are a great way to learn more about your new neighborhood, find out about upcoming events, discover the best restaurants and much more. If you have a question, like who’s the best dentist in town, these sites can be one of the best places to turn to.
Explore On Foot
Take the time to explore your new neighborhood, ideally on foot as you’ll get a completely different perspective than you would whizzing by in a car. Experience the true flavor of it as you wander the streets and you might run into some neighbors to chat with along the way. Perhaps you’ll discover a fantastic local coffee shop, your new favorite restaurant, a really cool thrift shop, or the perfect path for walking or biking. The possibilities are endless.
Check Out Local Meetups and Clubs
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the community is to join a local meetup or a club. Thanks to the Internet it’s easier than ever to find people with similar interests, whether it’s running, fishing, dining out, reading, crafting, ghost hunting, or just about anything else. Sites like Meetup can be invaluable when it comes to getting the most from your new neighborhood.
Volunteer
Volunteering is not only a great way to lift your mood but to invest in your community and learn more about the issues that shape it and enjoy opportunities to meet others with similar values. You might ask organizations that are doing something that’s important to you, check with your neighbors or search online. There are many ways to get involved by volunteering once you’ve settled in a bit.
