Thursday, June 22, 2023

Summer is Here, Don't Over-Enjoy Your Yard to The Dismay of your Neighbors!

Great reminder article in Houzz this week. Talking about the different scenarios that would allow you to really enjoy your backyard. But, things to think about to keep the peace between neighbors.

AKA ... Common Courtesy


"Many of us move outside during the summer. We host parties in the yard, grill and eat meals on the patio, relax by the pool and work in the garden. However, most of us share our outdoor spaces with uninvited and sometimes reluctant guests: our neighbors. And our outdoor pleasures can be their pain points. Or maybe we’re the ones who suffer from a neighbor’s unwelcome noise or cooking smells.

Because it’s more pleasant to get along with neighbors than not, here are 10 guidelines for considerate outdoor practices and design — no matter which side of the fence you’re on."

1. Keep Lighting on the Down Low - I sure don't want to have someones backyard lights blazing into my dimly lit home.

2. Thank You for Not Smoking - I have a friend that her neighbor constantly smokes in his yard. Another client passed on purchasing a home that people were constantly smoking in the neighbors backyard.

3. Watch the Volume on Outdoor TVs and Music Speakers - I don't think we could put a TV in our yard. I'm always asking hubby to turn it down...INSIDE the house! 

4. Keep a Lid on Pool Noise - Know before you buy that pools can be noisy when in use. And, speak to your neighbor if they are playing Marco Polo in the late hours.

5. Be Mindful of Which Way the Wind Is Blowing - This is actually about wind chimes! Check in with your neighbors before you place your chimes. 

6. Show You’re a Team Player - Kids, they are talking about kids playing in the backyard. Be mindful of where you put the childrens' play space.

7. Don’t Forget Your ‘Petiquette’ - Barking and Pooping. Please courteous to your neighbors. This is one of the biggies.

8. Be Considerate About Composting - I don't want to smell your compost pile. Nuff said.

9. Place Structures Thoughtfully and Be a Good Host - With all the ADU's being added, PLEASE be one of those neighbors that considers your next door pals when considering placement of one. And, if you're going to have guests coming and going....tell them as well.

10. Extend an Invitation — or an Olive Branch Of course the best way to create peace and harmony with your neighbors is by getting to know them so you can maintain good communication. Let them know if you’re having a big event. Bring them some flowers or veggies from your garden to soften the blow. If you’re having a neighborhood get-together, be sure to invite them. And if you’re on the receiving end of a neighbor’s complaint, ask what you can do to improve the situation, and make a good-faith effort to follow through on the answer.


I sure hope this helps you, and your neighbors, to enjoy your Summer outdoors!




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