The Best Inspector You Are Not Using: Your Future Neighbor

I was on house tours (showings) with a buyer client, a retiree who worked part-time. We parked in front of the next property on our list, and I noticed the neighbor standing in his front yard speaking with another gentleman. As we walked toward the house, I informed her that, if he were still outside when we finished the tour, I would approach him to get a feel for the neighborhood. She was aghast that I would approach this stranger. I remember chuckling and asking, “Do you not speak to your neighbors?” She stated that she did not. I chuckled again and said, “You are going to want to learn to do that. Every house on this seemingly quiet street has a nice yard. I bet everyone here looks out for their neighborhood and knows what is going on.”

You do not have to invite a neighbor over for tea and a biscuit (I watch too many historical series on the BBC, lol). You do want to be aware of who you might be living around and find out what information a neighbor is likely to share. They probably know who owns the property for sale. If they have lived in the neighborhood for several years, they know what changes have happened and what’s likely to come. They may have information about the HOA, and that brief conversation could give you a good history of the property for sale.

After introductions, I do most of the talking with the neighbor. I find this a good way to take the temperature of a neighborhood. So, before and after you move into your new home, I recommend speaking with the person next door. Say “Good morning” on trash day as you both are rolling out your bins. Speak to the mailperson if you are home when they are delivering the mail. Attend an HOA meeting, if there is an HOA.

Even if you are moving to the country on acres of land, you will be living in a community. For communities to be successful, you cannot be apprehensive about speaking with your neighbors. I have shared farm-fresh eggs that were given to me; I have shared extra food when the office had restaurant delivered leftovers (untouched mind you, lol). During the pandemic, many of us would gather on our street, sitting on chairs in a circle, drinking wine and chatting about the things neighbors do.

My first post told you that a home is more than a house. Your new home is also part of a community. Be a good neighbor.