Real EstateMoving To Charleston SC: Introducing Yourself To The Neighbors

If you have recently relocated to Charleston, SC you can count yourself among the lucky. Not only does this sleepy, historic Southern town have much to offer including gorgeous beaches, beautiful Southern architecture, and a warm, sunny climate, but the vibrant restaurant scene has catapulted Charleston to the top of the list of favorite Southern cities.

The housing market in Charleston has been on the upswing giving home buyers a chance to relocate to the area or find their dream home nearby. With all that activity, inevitably the day will come for saying “goodbye ” to old neighbors and “hello ” to new ones. Here are some easy pointers for getting to know your new neighbors.

Be courteous.

This shouldn’t need to be our first tip, but you don’t want to start out on the wrong foot even before you move in. Be aware of the mess and noise if you have a construction crew on site early starting to demo your renovation project. On move-in day, be considerate about where you park your car and moving truck so you don’t block the roadway or a neighbor’s driveway. Be courteous about your pet’s behavior if your fence isn’t installed yet, or if your dog barks at people unfamiliar to him. Most importantly, apologize promptly for any disruption that may occur.

Say Hi.

So after you have unpacked all the boxes and repainted the rooms what should you do next? Introduce yourself to the neighbors! Get out and take a walk around the neighborhood. Nod or smile at everyone you pass. If you are out in your yard, wave or say “hello ” when neighbors pass. Look up and make eye contact because you might find that your neighbors are interested in meeting you too.

Spend time outside.

Mow the grass, pull weeds, paint if the house has been in disrepair. Spruce up the outside of your house and make it inviting. Put comfortable chairs on your front porch and spend some time there. If you see the neighbors out and about invite them to join you. If your home doesn’t have a porch, work in the garden or play with your kids in the yard.

Shop locally.

You’ll find that your neighbors already shop at the places most convenient to your neighborhood, so ask around. If there is a local retail establishment nearby that is a favorite among your neighbors, visit it. Mention that you’re new to town because you’ll find that local retailers are a great source for recommending other great businesses nearby.

Note: Making a smooth transition into a new neighborhood doesn’t have to be hard, and after a few weeks in Charleston you’ll appreciate just why they call it “Southern Hospitality “!  Once you’ve made up your mind to move to Charleston SC, make sure you know the ins-and-outs of the Holy City, the market prices, restaurants to visit and so much more …