What does community mean to you? It might mean knowing that you live somewhere safe, somewhere you know your neighbour’s first name or maybe it’s somewhere you can get involved with the local surf lifesaving club?
Community means something different to each and every person, but it should be front of mind when you are moving to a new home, state or country.
Why? Because a sense of community that suits our lifestyle is as important, if not more important than the type of house we buy and the conveniences around it.
A community can be the difference between being involved as a young mum with a partner at work for long hours or being isolated and feeling lonely at home with a new bub.
If you are moving to a new suburb or home, how do you integrate into the local area to make it feel more like home?
It can be a daunting process moving to a new place where you don’t know anyone or have any close friends, so here are our top tips:
Join a local club
This could be a netball team, a Lions or Rotary Club, or a mothers group at the local library if you’re a young mum who is going stir crazy at home with little ones running around.
Joining clubs in your local area can be a great way to meet new people who live near you, and who can offer tips about where to go and recommend the best coffee places to hang out!
Volunteer
Another great way to meet new people is to volunteer with a local organisation. This could be anything that you are passionate about from a charity to a surf lifesaving club.
If you have the time, this can be a great way to meet local people in your area in a relaxed environment.
Invite your neighbours over for dinner or a drink
You might have met them in the driveway, but how about going out on a limb and inviting over your neighbours who waved hello and seemed nice when you moved in?
You may have children the same age or a mutual appreciation for all sorts of things and knowing your neighbours can be a great way to start making your new home feel safe and secure.
Attend community celebrations or markets
If there is a community event in your local area, there are bound to be a lot of local people heading there. Why not head along yourself and get to know some of the local business owners and people that go to these types of events.
Give yourself time
Moving somewhere new can be scary, and it can take time to get to know people; to meet new friends for both yourself and your children, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself to know the area, the people, and the places to go right away.
Part of the joy of being in a new place is exploring, so take the chance to explore, say yes to opportunities, and soon it will start to feel like home.
If you are looking to make a big move, get in touch with one of our friendly team today.