A new move looks like living out of stacked up boxes with sharpie labels, while becoming BFF with your GPS, and trying to figure out where to grab a good cup of coffee.
You’re actively looking for pretty much everything and ready to make decisions.
A long list of needs and wants, flexible spending habits, and wanting to belong – that’s the mindset of a new mover. For businesses like yours, this is definitely a golden opportunity.
Amy from Welcome Wagon recently shared some eye-opening insights about just how responsive and eager new movers are to engage with local businesses. And if you’re a business owner or marketer, this is your cue to reach out to them.
New Movers Are Ready to Spend— RIGHT NOW!
“New movers are eighty times more responsive than long-term residents,” Amy Smith, Community Marketing Executive at Welcome Wagon shares.
These new movers are in a state of transition and need everything. They’re actively browsing their phones, tablets, and computers for groceries, gyms, dentists, and decorators. They’re hunting for businesses like yours that can meet their needs- and they’re doing it quickly.
A whopping 85% of new movers choose the first business that contacts them.
That means your timing is literally everything. Make sure your business is the first to say “Welcome to the neighborhood” and you’re already ahead of the game. If you take your time- chances are your competition already beat you to their (new) doorstep.
The Power of a Thoughtful Welcome
Once you’ve established yourself as the first one at their doorstep to say hi, you need to include that neighborly warmth in your welcome strategy.
It’s all about being thoughtful.
“88% of new movers say a housewarming gift from a local business would make them feel welcomed.” shares Amy. That’s a powerful emotional connection, the kind that builds a foundation for a lifelong, loyal customer.
A small gift, a personalized note, or a special offer can go a long way in making someone feel your intention.
For example, a new mover receives a welcome card from a local garden center, along with a packet of wildflower seeds and a note that reads, “Welcome to the neighborhood! We thought you might enjoy planting something beautiful in your new space. Stop by anytime, we’d love to meet you.” That small gesture—the seeds, the note, the follow-up—makes them feel seen. It’s a thoughtful welcome, and now that garden center is a part of the mover’s new beginning.
Turning a New Resident into a Forever Customer
When someone moves, they’re starting fresh. Their routines are up in the air, and their brand loyalty is yours- if you make a great first impression. It’s time to become a part of their new normal.
Make effort to reach out early, send them a warm welcome and compelling offer. They’re looking for connection, so deliver it to their doorstep.
That’s not even the best part…
New movers are looking for you! They want to know who the trusted businesses are, they’re hoping for recommendations; they’re eager to explore and ready for commitment.
How to Reach New Movers Effectively
I’m sure your now wondering how to take advantage of this opportunity, here are a few ideas:
- Send a personalized mailer, such as a welcome postcard with a special discount or freebie. Make it feel personal and inviting and just for them!
- Local partnerships can help reach them while covering all of their needs. You can team up with other businesses to create a “Welcome to Our Neighborhood” bundle that includes offers from multiple places.
- Use geo-targeted ads to reach people who’ve recently changed their address.
- Community events can help someone feel at home; when you host a “Welcome to the Neighborhood” event, your newest residents can meet local business owners.
- Social media is a must. Engage with local community groups and offer a warm welcome online, because we all scroll and enjoy our favorite influencer’s suggestions.
The ROI of Being First and Friendly
The numbers speak for themselves… new movers are high-intent customers.
They’re actively looking, ready to spend, and open to forming new loyalties.
When you can reach out early and thoughtfully, you’re laying the foundation for a long-term relationship and a customer that will tell others all about your business.
Amy Smith has a clear message: Don’t wait.
Be the first to greet new movers and do it with intention. Because when you make someone feel at home, they’re far more likely to make your business part of theirs.
