New Friendships & Relocating Later in Life

Real Estate and Life’s Seasons

When we’re young and single, we live in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city. We want to be where other people are -- events, opera, museums, dining, and cocktails. Then you meet someone and start a family. To the suburbs you go.

Raising children in the suburbs puts you with people who are doing the same. Between baseball and ballet, it’s easy to make friends with the other parents. Your children grow older (way too quickly) and then friendships drift.

Friendships in Life’s Transitions

We tend to think that good things in life should also be permanent. Friendships are one of those things. As our children grow older, we get caught up in their lives and schedules. Our own friendships are moved to the back burner. Then one day we wake up and the kids are gone.

We ‘re  left thinking -- when is it my turn? It’s now. Right now is your turn. So you may decide to move to New York City or choose a small condo in Portland, Oregon. Either way, you’ll have to make new friends. So, what are some tips when relocating later in life?

Relocating and New Friendships

Once our city or neighborhood is chosen, we can do some online research to help acclimate. This is especially helpful when changing states. Believe it or not, the cultures in every state are so different.

Start with Google Maps. Look for restaurants near the new home or condo you’re buying. Read the Yelp reviews and like the businesses on Facebook. It’s a great way to get regular updates and, more importantly, see the comments from other locals.

If there is a Facebook Group for that community, join it. You could join Nextdoor but frankly it has a reputation for complainers. No one needs that kind of negativity.

If your neighborhood has a hashtag on Instagram, follow it. Larger cities have smaller communities within the community. For example Southtown is a distinct culture within San Antonio, Texas. That hashtag on Instagram is #SouthtownSATX. You’ll find brands and people. Follow them and comment on their posts. It’s a good way to lay some groundwork.

Relocating Means New Friends

It sounds generic but hobbies are always a good thing. Try something different. Join the local networking group, take tennis lessons, go to the museum.. Find a fishing guide and go fishing. Even with COVID, there are a lot of places opening up. Keep your mask on, your smile in your eyes, and live your best life!