We’ve all been spending more time at home this year and have probably seen a lot more of our neighbors. Luckily, it’s the perfect occasion to get to know them better and focus on our local community. Befriending your neighbors can make daily life more pleasant and ensure you always have a local support network if you ever need help. Besides, you might meet your new best friend! Here’s what it takes to be a good neighbor.
Follow The Neighborhood Etiquette
Some communities have a set of rules that homeowners are expected to follow, but there are also unwritten expectations. A good relationship with your neighbor begins with respect. For example, things like maintaining your property, being a responsible pet owner, and respecting your neighbors’ property lines and privacy can go a long way in building a positive community.
It’s fine to approach neighbors for a friendly chat or invite them over, but make sure you don’t overstep boundaries. If you’re new, don’t hesitate to ask about the neighborhood etiquette.
Bring People Together
Introducing yourself to your neighbors is a great place to start. Due to social distancing, an email list, messenger or a Facebook group can help you stay in touch and share important information.
Besides getting to know everyone better, your online group can become a place for sharing details about everything from events to garbage pickups. People can use it to ask for help, borrow tools or even share gardening advice. These small things will contribute to creating a real sense of belonging.
Do Good In Your Community
Nothing will bring you and your neighbors together like working on a common project. During the pandemic, some communities have been hit hard and could use a little extra help.
You can make a difference by organizing a neighborhood drive for items like food, clothes or even toys. Turn it into a friendly competition to see who can gather the most items, or have fun by organizing a COVID-19-friendly benefit night to support a local non-profit.
Find Occasions to Celebrate with Your Neighbors
Many activities have been limited over the past year, but planning things on a smaller scale can bring your neighborhood together. Something like a garage sale or official spring cleaning day can be a fun way to get together while following social distancing rules.
Or, find some inspiration in calendar holidays and make the days extra special. For example, June 8th is National Best Friend’s Day, the perfect excuse for planning some ice breaker activities to get to know your neighbors better. On June 24th, National Work from Home Day, you could set up a shared workspace for those who miss the office. After connecting over these activities, National Good Neighbor Day on September 28th could be a fun chance to organize a picnic or pandemic-friendly potluck where everyone brings their own food.
At Craftmark Homes, we design and build gorgeous townhomes in natural settings that create friendly, active communities. If you’re ready to move to a neighborhood with a genuine sense of community, get in touch with us to learn more about our available homes and upcoming communities.