Courtesy of the Central Wisconsin Apartment Association
Moving into your first apartment can be both exciting and scary. You get to decide where to live, what to put on the walls, and when to do the laundry (if at all). But your new home likely comes with neighbors, and if you are not considerate of their feelings it can put a damper on your newfound freedom.
One of the most important things you can do when moving into a new place is to introduce yourself to the people living next to you. Say “hello” when you see them pull into their driveway. Bake a pie and walk it over. Offer to help them with yard work. One simple act of kindness goes a long way in helping your neighbors to see you as a human being instead of a pest intent on making their lives miserable.
Yes, taking the first step in making an introduction can be intimidating, but imagine them knocking on your door at 7 a.m. the morning after you’ve had friends over to your new place.
To be a responsible tenant means being respectful of the people living around you. It’s that simple. Your neighbors have as much right as you to have an evening gathering or enjoy a peaceful night on their porch. Showing them you understand and respect their rights, it helps to soften the potential for future conflict. It creates an ally instead of an adversary. Maybe your neighbor has a snow blower that works faster than your plastic shovel? Or a strainer you can borrow after boiling a pot of noodles?
If you’re friendly and respectful, there is no limit to the generosity and tolerance a good neighbor will show you in return.