Will You Be A Good Neighbour?

You just purchased your first home and you are overwhelmed with all the planning you have to do to make the move. You have checklists everywhere to ensure that you don’t forget anything. You have little time to think of anything except all of the tasks you must complete for a successful move. However, the move is just the first step in your journey as a new homeowner.

Once you have made the move and are somewhat settled into your new home it will be time to meet your neighbours. Having great connections with others in your neighbourhood can improve the quality of your day-to-day life.

Tips To Be a Good Neighbour

• Always share a smile and a wave to let your new neighbours know that you are pleasant and approachable.
• Introduce yourself to those you meet. Ask them a question about the neighbourhood to keep the conversation going.
• Observe your neighbours lifestyle and find similarities to your own. It is a positive step to consider what you have in common and build on that relationship.
• Maintain your property. Keep your lawn mowed regularly and the weeds pulled. Put the kids bikes and toys away each day.
• Make sure to put your garbage out on garbage day and not a day earlier. Remember to take the time to bring garbage pails and recycling bins in after pick-up.
• Control your pets. Make sure that you keep your dog on a leash and clean up after it if you are walking through the neighbourhood. If your dog is in a fenced yard make sure you monitor and manage any barking that may disturb others.
• Be helpful to your neighbours. If you own a snowblower, chain saw or even an extension ladder there will be occasions that you might want to offer your neighbour a hand.
• If you are planning a yard sale let the neighbours know. They may want to have one also or add some items to yours.
• Report to your neighbours any odd or suspicious events that you may have noticed. There is strength in numbers. Your block will be much safer if everybody is keeping an eye out.
• If you plan on having a vegetable garden make sure you treat them with some of your freshly grown veggies.
• Respect their routines and schedules.

It just takes a few simple actions on your part to ensure that you are a good neighbour. Why not give it a try? Neighbours can be a wonderful connection and play an important role in your life. Having these positive relationships on your block will help make that new house you bought feel just a little more like home.

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