6 Scenarios to Get to Know Your Neighbors

One of your first goals, when moving to a new apartment, should be to get to know your neighbors. Community living is part of what apartment life is all about. A typical apartment complex offers several ways to make contact with your neighbors.

1. Moving Day

As stressful as moving can be, you’re bound to see some of your neighbors while moving in. To make a good impression, take a moment to greet people coming and going in your building. If they appear to be going into an apartment near to yours, ask if they live there, and introduce yourself. Indicate that you’re moving into one of the apartments, and be friendly towards everyone you meet.

2. Apartment Community Events

Most apartment complexes sponsor events for residents. Holiday celebrations, weekly socials, movie viewings and televised sports events are among the typical offerings. Obtain a schedule of events, and attend as many as possible to interact with your new neighbors.

3. Around the Swimming Pool

If your apartment complex has an indoor or outdoor pool, using it can be a great way to meet new people. Acquire a pool pass as soon as possible. Find out which days and times are most popular for using the pool. Plan to swim or relax around the pool at popular times to meet more people.

4. The Lobby

When waiting for a ride or meeting someone, the lobby is a great place to see and meet your neighbors. Always be polite to people coming in and out of the lobby. If others are waiting near you, strike up a conversation. Tell them that you’re new to the building. If they’ve lived there for a while, ask them how they like it. Before long, you’ll start to recognize people and will begin to build relationships.

5. In the Elevator

Used prudently, the elevator can be a way to get to know people in your building. Smile and say “good morning” or “hello” to everyone you come in contact with. By doing so, you’ll gain a reputation for being approachable. After a while, those “hellos” will turn into more meaningful conversations.

6. By Invitation

Once you’ve unpacked enough of your belongings for people to sit comfortably in your apartment, knock on your neighbors’ doors and invite them over for a drink (or other social event). Depending on your building and your neighbors, invite them individually (one apartment at a time) or as a group. Sitting down together, in an unhurried environment, will give you a chance to learn about one another. It will also provide an opportunity to discuss concerns about your apartment complex. You can even arrange to have a communal BBQ within the grounds of your apartment complex.

By observing who’s around you, and making an effort to be friendly to people you see frequently, it won’t be long before you’re acquainted with your new neighbors.

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Lisa Bernstein: As a long-time apartment dweller and seasoned condominium trustee, I have dealt with numerous landlord-tenant, property management, and day-to-day apartment complex issues. My extensive, direct experience has led to invaluable insights into apartment life from both the tenant and management perspectives.