After 18 months of on-and-off social-distancing, mask mandates and quarantining, it's really easy to get caught up in our own little bubble and forget about how we’re making an impact on those around us. Many of us have also relocated during this time and lost all sense of community as we have not been able to socialize the way we typically would.

Well, the good news is just by putting yourself out there and trying to be a better neighbor, you are doing something to strengthen your community ties. Every act, big or small, can help, and you don't need to donate a million dollars to a cause or go on a humanitarian mission to bring something to your community.

So if you're wondering how to start, we've rounded up some ideas below. Have an idea we didn't include? Send us a DM or comment on @sherripattersonteam. We'd love to hear it.

SAY HELLO

We'll start with an extremely easy one. Just the act of smiling, saying hi, and being friendly to your neighbors, strangers, etc., might make their day better. And it doesn't take much effort at all. The next time you're passing someone on the street, coming across a person in public, or interacting with a cashier or server, don't look away. Just give them a smile or a quick hello.

KEEP UP YOUR CURB APPEAL

Just one ugly home in a community can reduce property values for the entire neighborhood. Hence, you don’t want to become known as the owner of “that ugly house” — i.e., the one with knee-high grass, overflowing gutters, dirty windows, peeling paint or toys scattered across the front yard. 

BE A RESPONSIBLE PET OWNER

Not everyone is a dog or cat lover, so show responsibility for your pets. Start with pet etiquette 101: Clean up after your pooch. When you take your dog for a walk, do not deposit your dog’s poop bag into someone else’s trash can. It sounds basic, but it happens a lot.

PICK IT UP. TRASH, THAT IS.



There's always something floating around--a sandwich bag, the empty box that blew out of your neighbor's recycling last night, the occasional stray sock. Your efforts to beautify your neighborhood will surely be appreciated, and (hopefully) emulated by those who take notice.

ABIDE BY COMMUNITY RULES

When you live in a homeowners or condo association, you have to comply with the community’s rules. Still, a lot of people don’t take the time to review their association’s rules. These rules may dictate parking restrictions, trash and recycling schedules, landscaping requirements, move-in procedures and more. Breaking your association’s rules can not only result in fines but also ruffle feathers with neighbors.

BE A RESPECTFUL PARTY HOST

Keeping music at a reasonable noise level when you’re throwing a party is common sense. An aspect people frequently overlook, though, is minding where their guests park. The last thing you want is for your guest to block your neighbor’s driveway.

SUPPORT A LOCAL BUSINESS

It's always smart to shop local, but now it's especially important. If you love your neighborhood boutique, restaurant, bar, coffee shop, et.c, frequent them. Right now, you can buy gift cards, order delivery or pick-up (if it's available and safe to do so), and tell your friends, family, and others about the business.

START OR JOIN A GROUP

If your neighborhood has a NextDoor,  Facebook Group or online message board, consider joining it. It's a good way to stay in touch with others and look for ideas on how you can provide support.

All neighborhoods have their own personalities. Some tend to be more open to socializing, while others are made up of people who prefer to stay to themselves. Regardless of the type of neighborhood you live in, there are still some basic etiquette rules you should follow to be a good neighbor!

Looking for a new place to call home? Contact our award-winning team to find a community that’s a good fit for your family and lifestyle: 916-801-1105.