When someone moves into a new home, they’re starting a new life.
They’re building new routines, finding their way around, and forming new relationships.
And in those moments of transition, they’re looking for businesses to help them settle in. That’s where you come in.
They’re 5x more likely to become loyal customers if you reach them first.
Give these new neighbors a warm, intentional introduction – and you just might win them over for life.
Amy from Welcome Wagon puts it beautifully, “New movers are not passive scrollers or casual browsers—they’re all ready to make decisions. The businesses that reach them first are the ones that win their loyalty.”
First Impressions Matter—Make Yours Count
When it comes to new movers, your first impression can influence their buying habits for years to come.
Getting in front of them at the right time, with a personalized message, is key.
For example, a local restaurant could send new residents a “Welcome, we’re happy to have you!” postcard, with an invite to enjoy their special new neighbor meal promo, feeding them while they are settling into their new kitchen. A QR code could guide them to a special menu page for family dinner bundles.
“You need to do more than just share your brand. New movers are looking for an inviting welcome,” shares Amy Smith, Community Marketing Executive at Welcome Wagon. “Send a personalized message with an offer that’s just for new residents. This is a simple way to help them settle in and help your brand be top of mind when they’re ready to buy.”
A Multi-Channel Approach That Meets Movers Where They Are
Meet these new movers wherever they are, in ways that feel natural and timely.
A multi-channel approach helps you reach out to them whether they’re checking their mail, browsing online, scrolling social media, and searching for recommendations.
Create intentional touchpoints that help you build trust. Create a warm welcome letter, a digital coupon, and a friendly email- each interaction is designed to feel personal and relevant.
Imagine a local home services company sending a welcome packet; inside is a friendly note, a checklist of seasonal maintenance tips, and a coupon for a discounted first service. When people search “best lawn care near me,” they have a Google ad offering a free consultation for new residents. Lastly, the company follows up with an email; a warm welcome message, a link to schedule online, and a short video introducing the team. It’s personal, professional, and easy to act on.
Relationship Building > Advertising
Of course, the goal is to grow your business—but your method should be rooted in genuine engagement. Focus on connection over conversion.
“When you approach new movers with care and intention, you’re not just making a sale—you’re making a customer for life,” Amy says. “A well-timed welcome has a huge emotional impact on new residents. They’re navigating unfamiliar streets and a long to-do list. Let them know you’re there for them and ready to help.”
For example, to reach new bookworms in the neighborhood, a local bookstore could design a welcome letter that includes a handwritten note from the owner, a list of local book club meetups, and a voucher for a free coffee in their cozy reading nook.
Why This Matters for Local Businesses
Local businesses thrive on relationships; you’re becoming a part of someone’s daily life.
New movers are a unique audience because they’re actively forming those daily habits right now. They’re choosing where to shop, where to eat, who to trust with their home, their health, and their pets.
When you reach out early, you position your business as a trusted resource for them- and when that outreach is done with warmth and intention, it can really resonate and create a core memory during this hugely pivotal time in their life.
Amy’s video reminds us that reaching new movers is all about being kind, timely, and helpful.
She tells us, “Reaching new movers is all about being timely and helpful. Welcome Wagon can help you do just that, and not only through direct mail, but digital, too.”
If you’re a local business looking to grow your customer base, consider this: new movers are looking for you, actively searching for what you offer. Be the first to greet them. Be the business that makes them feel at home.
