Whether you are new to the neighborhood or have lived there for several years, it is always a good idea to get to know your neighbors. Neighbors can become unexpected friends and provide a watchful eye for your home and family’s safety. In order to make friends, you must first be a good neighbor.
Tips on being a good neighbor:
- Get to know your neighbors. Go to the homes surrounding your house and introduce yourself. Plan to introduce yourself and/or family at a reasonable hour of the day. Get to know their names and write down their contact information if you ever need to reach them.
- Keep your yard neat. Generally, the curb appeal of your home affects the curb appeal of your neighbors’ homes. Everyone wants to live in a well-kept neighborhood because it adds to the value of the houses.
- Talk about community concerns. A lot of times, things that concern you about your community will be a concern to your neighbors as well. Talk about the things you are thinking and a reasonable course of action to take.
- Start a neighborhood watch program. Your neighborhood’s safety is a concern to everyone. No one desires to have their homes or cars broken into! Start a voluntary neighborhood watch program. Two people can patrol the streets at night and report any suspicious activity to the police.
- Offer to watch their kids or pets. There is nothing like having a backup babysitter in case you are in a pickle. If you offer to watch their children, odds are they will return the favor. It is nice to have a trusted adult watch over your kids and animals while you are away from home.
- Start a block party. This is a great way to get to know the people around your neighborhood. It is helpful to learn everyone’s professions and see if you can be of service to each other.
Just like you, your neighbors want the best for the neighborhood. Make the first step in becoming a good neighbor. Plus, that neighbor you do not know yet may become a really great friend!