I’ve always believed that one of the best investments you can make is buying a home. And, while there may be plenty of financial benefits to home ownership, there are few things that can replace the long-term investment of building a personal relationship with your neighbors.
If you’re like me, you might enjoy the idea of backyard BBQ’s and block parties and having a house full of people. I feel that my neighbors are almost like family and I’m happy to know that I can count on them if I’m ever in a bind. And, while a full house and tons of socialization may not exactly be your cup of tea, there are still plenty of great reasons to get to know your neighbors and participate in those types of neighborhood activities!
Studies show that neighborhoods where people know one another tend to be safer. People who are friendly with each other are more comfortable calling the police or neighborhood watch if they see suspicious activity, are willing to share resources like yard tools or a stick of butter, and people with strong social relationships are not only happier, but live longer!
Need some good tips on how to be neighborly?
Make small talk and be friendly. Say hello and ask personal questions in an effort to get to know them. Be considerate, especially if you share any kind of common property. Let them know if you’re going to be making noise at an early or late hour and do your best to keep your animals from tearing up their property or making excessive noise. Keep your home and yard tidy by sweeping your front porch or sidewalk, mowing your lawn and picking up trash that may stray into your yard.
Whether you’re new to a neighborhood or have lived there for a few years, the holidays also offer a wonderful opportunity to get to know your neighbors, too! And there’s no better way than by getting into the holiday spirit and breaking the ice by delivering small, meaningful gifts to the people on your block!
Pinterest offers tons of affordable and adorable ideas. From cookie or hot cocoa mixes in a jar, to baked goods or pretty winter flowers. Even a bottle of wine or a hot crockpot full of soup! The size and cost won’t matter, your neighbors will just be happy to know that you’re thinking of them. And who knows, maybe it’ll open the door to a long lasting friendship!
So the moral of the story is… be neighborly. You will be glad you were! Give me a call if you or someone you know wants me to help y’all find a new neighborhood to call home!