Suburbia begs confusion. As a homeowner you always wonder how to address neighbors. Some are part of the family and others are simple wave hello neighbors. But when someone new moves onto the block you get the opportunity to decide how to welcome the newcomers. It starts with the initial move-in. Are they wave-hello neighbors or neighbors who you can see coming over for late afternoon cocktails or conversation?

Let’s pretend that the neighbors move in with several filled Ford F-150s. All trucks are spilling over with brick-a-brack and there are half-naked kids jumping out the windows. Perhaps you know it is a rental property and you are already worried about who might move in. If these new neighbors are people you might not expect to be friends with, then keep it simple. Give them some home baked goods and don’t expect to hear from them again.

Next let’s pretend that your new neighbors are people you might want to hang out with. Let’s say that they moved in without fanfare and did nothing to make you think that they might park a broken down car on their lawn or an old boat in front of the house. You need to bring a welcoming gift. The best gift to spark conversation and possibly incite further interaction is booze. Give them a nice bottle of wine or if you are really adventurous, give them a bottle of liquor. Chances are they will invite you over to partake in the tasty beverage. That could be the beginning of a great neighbor relationship.

A gift to say that you will be a good neighbor but do not want more than a simple wave hello type relationship is the cheese or ham basket. It tastes good and it may bring joy to the new neighbors, but it will probably not spark a get together between the neighbors.

The joint gift between neighbors is also a popular option. If you go as a group then be prepared to spend a little more. Perhaps if three houses go in it together for a gift then a real house warming gift might be the best bet. Get them something that they might not be expecting for this new neighborhood. Perhaps they need a specific type of trash can or recycling bin. If it is near the holiday season then you might want to get them their first tree in the new house. A gift certificate to a home improvement store would also mean a lot to a new homeowner. We have all been there.

Gifts mean many things and it’s important for everyone to remember that is the thought that counts. New neighbors should be thankful that their new neighbors remember to give them anything. But as the gift giver you must remember that your gift will be the first impression that sets the tone for your new relationship with the neighbors. Discover more unique gift ideas and fun housewarming gifts.