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Writer's pictureJennifer Hannan

Tips on moving into a new neighbourhood

Updated: Mar 30, 2022

It's a very exciting time when you are moving into a new area. Sometimes the challenge is how to integrate into your new community and start enjoying your new home. We have put together a few tips on how to feel more at ease and help you get adjusted to your new neighbourhood after relocating.


Research Your New Community

new home/community research

Some online research will give you a pretty good idea of some fun things to do, places to visit, local shops, farmer's markets, restaurants, healthcare facilities, schools, churches, gyms, yoga studios and vets.

Get to Know Your Neighbours

get to know your neighbours by walking the dog

Introduce yourself to your immediate neighbours, whether it is by knocking on their doors or taking your dog for a walk and start up a conversation. By joining local clubs which suits your interest like soccer, walking or a reading club will spark some friendships and relationships. Community event participation can be a great way to meet new interesting people with similar interests.


Host a Backyard BBQ

getting to know your neighbours at a BBQ

Inviting your new neighbours for a pot luck or a barbeque is a great way to introduce yourself in a casual setting. Some conversations can lead to finding out more information about the surrounding area and ask advise on local activities or by asking them where to find the best food in town and let the conversation evolve from there.


Hire a Moving Service

It can be a stressful time to juggle both the upcoming move and meeting everyone that surrounds you. To make the transition easier hire a professional moving company and you can spend the time meeting your new neighbours! Enjoy the process and think of all the people you will meet without much effort and awkwardness.


Secure Your New Home

A couple of ways to secure your new investment after your move are to change all the locks of outside doors (an option for some cool tech could be a keyless smart lock), install a security alarm system and consider exterior lights. Another important issue to consider is fire safety, have fire extinguishers on each floor and ensure all fire alarms and smoke detectors are in good working order.

Before You Move Transfer the Utilities

transfer utility bills

Electricity, water, gas, internet, phone, cable and other utilities should be transferred to the new place and you will have to decide on what services you may not want to keep. Get in touch with your current providers at least 3 weeks before moving out. Also, remember to pay any overdue bills with the current providers and look for the new companies in the destination city or town.


Change Your Address

Schedule your mail to be forwarded to your new address with Canada Post about 4 weeks before moving. Ensure all your mail follows you to your new address. Making sure, you are not missing infrequent mailings such as tax slips, licenses or heath card renewals.

When you’re new to the neighbourhood, you have lots to look forward to. If you’re lucky, the new neighbours you meet may become good friends and make the whole experience that much better.


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