How to meet the neighbors? (sale, houses, upkeep)

[Novila]

We just moved to a more rural area in central Maine from a small town, and can't decide how we should approach our new neighbors. We're on a private, gravel road which we share with said neighbors, but I understand folks here are much more private people so I don't want to impose and ruin any potential relationships. All neighbors have No Trespassing signs in their front yards, and I haven't seen them out and about as we pass by. So how do you guys meet your neighbors in this situation without offending?

[Sgoldie]

I'd knock on the door of the nearest next door neighbors and introduce yourself, maybe with a little history of where you're from, where you work, info on the members of your family living with you, hobbies or activities you might share, etc. Keep it short unless they seem interested. Give them your phone number and let them know you're available as a neighbor if they need you for anything or if they'd like to stop by. You might want to check in with them depending on their age, health, availability of a second vehicle, or small children when a winter storm comes around to see if they need anything from the store.

[elston]

I would respect their "No Trespassing" signs and wouldn't go uninvited and knock on anyone's door. Respecting privacy is important, especially in Maine. If you get active in community affairs...church or any community organization....you might meet people and find out you're neighbors, and see if that has any possibility to develop into friendly neighbors.

You could put out a sign announcing a "Open House" on such and such a date and invite folks in.....or if you have any items...after your move.....hold a yard sale. But best bet is to go slow. Of course if any of them hold a yard sale this summer......that would be a perfect time to stop over and browse and introduce yourself as a neighbor.

Do you all share in the upkeep of the road. Are there any meetings about that?

[atrixwolfe]

I don't know, I think I'd have to go over and knock on the door and introduce myself, especially if they haven't approached you. You might just keep it simple and let then know who you and and possibly ask about road upkeep, plowing etc as an excuse. You can start out with the "I'm sorry to intrude but I wanted to introduce myself as your new neighbor....I wouldn't have just come up to the house but I wanted to at least just meet you and say hello.

Getting involved in other local community things or going to the local dairy bar or where ever is how you'll meet the other neighbors....Its summer some people are outside more, just keep you eyes out and don't hesitate to say your new here.

I have family in central Maine, and while private they do want to meet and know the neighbors. Also they seem to just drop in on people, which is different to me, I'm a call 1st kind of person. Lastly I'm in portland, but I had a new neighbor just knock on the door of my house this past weekend to let me know her moving truck would be here and she didn't want to clock me in.....so, I think ultimately I think you need to just do what's natural to you and indicate you don't want to be intrusive.

[maineguy8888]

Just be friendly. That's all.
There are no rules about it.

[namder1]

Took a while but now my neighbors are pretty good friends......most of us in this neck of the woods are either retired old farts or PT workers. We all like our privacy and don't go knocking unannounced.....

[mainebrokerman]

i agree with elston,,,if they dont know you and you are walking around houses knocking on doors...they may think you are ..either lost, a jehovah witness, or a burgler,,,, wouldnt advise it

If you are all on the same road,,wave to the others,,,they'll get to know who you are,,,,and sometimes,,,slow down and say hi to them,,,if they are outside or walking,, if they are having a lawn sale stop to talk with them,,,,also,,get to know their cars,,,,if you see them at a local store,,strike up a conversation

it also depends on age range....if they are young,,a couple, retired, etc.

a sign "free beer" with an arrow on it, pointing to your place,,will usually bring in the neighbors

[IHeartMaine]

You could go with a handmade sign that says "I'm your neighbor"......might freak them out but it will get the point across if they don't want to open the door.

Seriously though........try to catch them when they are out and about........and go from there depending on their level of "friendliness".

[Submariner]

Have you gone into the local American Legion and had a beer? They usually have a posted calendar of events. Check out the list of coming events and attend a few to them.

The K of C, VFW, all do that.

Go visit the local churches.

When I first got here, I joined the American Legion, VFW and the local lodge. Later we got into a church and the granges.

[Newdaawn]

I agree - I wouldn't go knocking after seeing a No Trespassing sign posted. Perhaps there is a Grange that is active in the community. They usually welcome newcomers and from there you might find out about who your neighbors are.