One of the best things about becoming a homeowner is the opportunity to build community. When you move into a new home you’re also becoming part of a neighborhood. But what if that neighborhood is on the quiet side or you’re having trouble meeting other homeowners on your street? Then you just need to get the ball rolling! If you’re looking for ideas on how to create a friendlier neighborhood, then these are some of our top suggestions. Put the word out to your neighbors, and you could soon be having block parties on the regular!
Start an online group
The easiest way to begin reaching out to your neighbors is by starting an online group. You can easily do this on social media sites like Facebook or Nextdoor. This will allow you to communicate quickly and easily with everyone, and perhaps even schedule events that take place offline.
Install a Little Free Library
People love book clubs for a reason. It’s nice to get together with other people and chat about the great book you just read. You can create the same kind of atmosphere by installing a Little Free Library in your yard. Stock it with books you’d like to share with both kids and adults, and encourage your neighbors to take a book or leave a book.
Offer to help
Everybody could use a helping hand now and again. Especially older folks who may live alone. If you notice that anyone on your street may need some help, then don’t be afraid to jump in. Perhaps your elderly neighbor could use some help clearing snow in the winter. Or maybe your neighbor is struggling to bring her groceries into the house and watch her kids at the same time – you could volunteer to help.
Plan a neighborhood yard sale
Who doesn’t love a good yard sale? It’s a great way to clear out your clutter and make a few bucks while you’re at it. Yard sales are even more successful when the whole neighborhood gets involved. Choose a day and invite your neighbors to participate. Make sure to market your neighborhood sale online, and check any local ordinances for sales in your area. You could even donate your proceeds to a local charity! Talk about building community.
Schedule a clean-up day
When you buy a home, you gain a sense of pride in ownership. This naturally extends to the neighborhood you live in, too. So why not get the whole neighborhood involved in a clean-up day? Choose a day once or twice a year where the whole block gets together at a designated time to pick up trash, debris, and dead branches.
Celebrate with a block party
Now that you’ve got the ball rolling, it’s time to celebrate! Throwing a block party is a wonderful way to relax and get to know the people in your neighborhood. There are many ways to do this including having everyone set up in their front yards or even renting a nearby community center.
