Nobody wants to have nightmare neighbors. Renters and owners alike can improve the quality of their neighborhood with the following tips:
Say Hello: Introduce yourself and get to know who’s living next door. Once the ice is broken, it’ll be easier to approach them about changes you might make or issues that need resolved. Everyone is busy but trying to be friendly will go a long way toward preventing conflict.
Exchange Favors: When you are getting to know your neighbors, one of the quickest ways to get to know someone is to exchange favors. The problem is that people tend to not like to be the first one to ask for help. If you can be the first one to ask for a small favor, you’ll likely see that your neighbor is willing not only to help, but will also engage in a little extra conversation
Trash: Make certain to bag garbage and stash it in tightly lidded containers and secure recycling so it doesn’t scatter in the wind. Nobody wants to spend time picking up garbage from someone else’s can.
Keep up your yard: Even renters are responsible for keeping their lawn and yard looking decent, which can mean regular mowing and cutting back of the bushes and other plants. If you are letting your yard overgrow because you are simply too busy, you can expect your neighbors to be disappointed. Even if they have not mentioned anything to you, it is a good idea to take the necessary steps needed to keep your yard looking nice. If not, then you could get a visit from your landlord requiring you to do something about the yard condition.
Fall Leaves: Falling leaves respect no property lines, and the ones that fall in your yard, even from a neighbor’s tree, are all yours. You may want to consider organizing a block leaf clean up party.
Noise: Limit the use of lawn mowers, leaf blowers, power tools, and the like to reasonable times or when permitted by city ordinances. If you decide to have friends over for game night, an outdoor cook out or back yard birthday party remember to be respectful of other people’s schedules. Also, reach out to your neighbors and let them know ahead of time or even invite them over! Be sure to share with your guests where to park so they don’t block your neighbors access to their home.
Resolve concerns early: Resolving conflict primarily consists of two steps: active listening and building an agreement together. Try not to get defensive. Listen to your neighbors’ concerns and ask for clarification. Once you’ve heard their side, you can work on an agreement that serves both of you. After all, we all want a peaceful enjoyable neighborhood.
Children at Play: It’s up to parents to keep a watchful eye on their children. Youngsters can easily forget their manners and the rules of safety when they’re curious or caught up in play. Teach children where they can and can’t go. Be aware of noise. Teach them to ask a parent for help if a ball goes into a neighbor’s yard.
Pets: If you are a pet owner, you are required to keep your dog or cat under control at all times, and you are liable for any damage to people or property. Obey city leash laws, and watch out at home for Incessant Barking, pets going AWOL and aggressive behavior towards passerby. And the most important tip, your neighbors yard is not your pets restroom.
Looking for a home to rent in a new neighborhood? Check out the possibilities with Crown Property Management or call our Residential Leasing line at 509-735-0165.
Or perhaps you are a property owner and are considering renting you home, for more information about our property management services and how we can help with your investment, send us an email or give us a call at 509-735-0415.
