Friday, April 4, 2014

Won't You Be My Neighbor

(Image courtesy of Johnny Ainsworth)

Moving into a new apartment can be tough. And we don’t just mean moving all your stuff, trying to get settled, and the unpacking and organizing process that seems to never end. If you’re moving into a new area, it can be lonely for the first few weeks while you get used to your surroundings!

One of the best parts about living in Sandia Village is the great community that we have to offer - and getting to know your neighbors will be a great way to stave off loneliness while you get more acclimated to your new surroundings! This article from renters.apartments.com offers a few great ideas to make friends with your neighbors in no time flat! Keep reading to learn more:

There are many reasons why you should get to know your neighbors. If they've been living there for a while, they can be a great resource for information like what day the garbage is picked up, what the landlord is like, parking tips, and where to find the best neighborhood restaurants. They may also be able to lend a helping hand if, for example, you’re locked out and need to use a phone, or you need someone to feed your cats and water your plants while you’re away.

Although everyone should try to be a good neighbor by keeping the noise down, keeping common areas clean and following other common courtesies, inevitably, something will happen that may inconvenience your neighbors (a barking dog, a loud party, a spill in the hallway). But if your neighbors know you, they will be less annoyed by these unintentional annoyances, and will try to work out any problems with you directly rather than going straight to the landlord.

So how do you go about getting to know these people? Although it may seem cliché, knocking on their door with a plate of cookies or brownies really works. It’s an unexpected and very appreciated gesture, especially if you live in a large city where the norm is to keep to yourself. Take the opportunity to introduce yourself, let them know who lives with you (four-legged companions included), what you do for a living, and if you’re new to the area.

If they are not overly friendly in return, don’t take it personally. The important thing is you made the effort, and you can say hello in the elevator rather than awkwardly trying to avoid eye contact. On the flipside, if they are nice in return, you may even make a new friend.

Getting to know your neighbors is a win-win no matter the outcome. So don’t be shy – and start baking!

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