Never underestimate the importance of being a good neighbor. Most of us want to live in our homes in peace, and having good neighbors can impact your happiness in your home, and how much you want to live there.
While you can’t control others’ behavior, you can control your own, and being a good neighbor is one way you can be a responsible citizen, and even make some great friends where you live.
Here are some tips on how you can be a dream neighbor.
Introduce yourself
One of the best ways to get off to a good start with your neighbors is to introduce yourself. If you’re new, or they’re new, it’s a good idea to go say hello. There are some great ideas for introducing yourself to your neighbors, including taking them a gift or inviting them over for a drink. Making those early introductions will benefit you later on, and could even be the start of a wonderful new friendship.
Keep your home presentable
Taking pride in your home is important, but it also makes a good impression on your neighbors. If your front yard or drive is always full of litter or is in a state of neglect, you can be sure your neighbors will have noticed! Keep the outside of your home maintained and well-presented to keep your street looking its best.
If you want to impress on the inside too, try adding some simple touches that will make your home look more luxurious.
Be respectful of noise and other anti-social behavior
Noise can be one of the biggest disruptors of peace between neighbors, so make sure you keep it down so that everyone can enjoy where they live. Keep music at acceptable levels and if you’re going to have a huge argument, shut your windows and doors – nobody needs to hear you yelling at your kids constantly! When it comes to having parties and other events where you might have noise, a noise monitoring device can prevent incidents and keep neighbors happy. You could also give them some advance warning of any gatherings, and even invite them if you’re comfortable with doing so.
Be friendly
Being nice to others takes no money or effort, and if you show some kindness to your neighbors, you’ll stand a much better chance of having better relationships. Say hello, spend time outside talking to them and be helpful where possible if you’re asked for a favor. If you have any issues with your neighbors, resolve disputes politely and calmly, you don’t want to cause resentment for life over something small.
Having good neighbors can make you feel much happier in your home, helping you love where you live. By being a good neighbor, hopefully, your neighbors will demonstrate the same behavior in return, allowing you to form those great neighborly relationships that make communities great.
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