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So, you have decided to pull up your roots and move into a new neighborhood. We get it – settling into a new home or neighborhood has never been a walk in the park. But, you are not alone; housing watchdogs estimates that over 40 million Americans pack up and move into a new area each year.

The problem is that you don’t know if a neighborhood has good or bad neighbors. You have to find this out on your own. For that reason, you ought to know how to not only strike a healthy rapport with friendly neighbors, but also how to deal with not-so-friendly neighbors. Wouldn’t it be nice if there were a few tips to help you settle into your new Orange County neighborhood without much hassle?

Herein, I will walk you through the top five tips on how to live amicably with your neighbors. Read on – you will be glad you did.

Introduce Yourself – in a Good Way

There are those picture-perfect neighbors; the kind you see in commercials. And then, there are bad neighbors – nosy, obnoxious, noisy, home value wreckers, and so forth. No matter what kind of neighbors you have, introducing yourself is bound to paint you in good light. Sometimes a wave or saying a simple “hello” could be the magic wand you need.

If you want to start on the right foot in Orange County – say a Huntington Beach neighborhood = get to know your neighbors. Maybe bake a pie and make the gesture of dropping by their doorstep. Here’s the thing: a kind neighborly gesture can melt the stance of even the most hardened fellows.

Help Out

Sure your neighbor could have a prairie-like lawn, littered backyard, or a junkyard  out front, but things aren’t always what they seem. Remember, one thing with people, in general, is that everyone has problems they are dealing with. No one wants to have someone else’s problems become theirs. In many cases, what may seem like a bad neighbor is really someone that just needs help. Offering to help a neighbor is one of the best things you can do in solving problems or preventing future ones. Someone could be going through a rough divorce, sickness, or unemployment slump. So, ask them if you can lend a hand with something. Mow that lawn or clean-up that messy backyard; you will be glad you did.

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate

Even after introduction, don’t cut communication. Don’t pass your neighbor without saying “hello.” With healthy communication, you can solve almost any squabble or concern. Are your neighbors too noisy? Go have a chat with them. Everyone is unique; your neighbors may not realize that they are noisy. Bottom line – communicate.

Be Respectful

Being a polite neighbor implies many things. Apply the Golden Rule and treat them as you would like to be treated. For instance, keep your lawn cleaned up at all times. Don’t leave anything out in your front yard that may be deemed an eyesore. Avoid loud gatherings that might infuriate your neighbors. If you’re going to have construction work done that may inconvenience your neighbors, perhaps by the noise or vehicles, let them know in advance, apology for the inconvenience, and when the work is completed, take over some homemade cookies or treat you know they like. In all, be respectful of your neighbor’s time and space.

Do Something Together Once in a While

Though not all the time, do a little favor for your neighbors. Offer to mow an elderly neighbor’s lawn. Organize a neighborhood get-together. Do a fundraiser. All these kind favors will go a long way to show that you are a generous and considerate person..

Wrap Up

Being a good neighbor should not be difficult. Communicate, be a considerate person, and don’t forget to make a friendly gesture once in a while.