It can be difficult to figure out how to deal effectively with your neighbors. It’s not easy to buy a house only to find out that you have terrible neighbors. You don’t have to just accept the bad behavior of your neighbors or live with them. You can use it as an opportunity to build positive relationships and create a better environment for your neighbors.

One in two Americans don’t know their neighbors’ names, which can make it difficult to resolve conflicts peacefully. To build a solid relationship, introduce yourself as soon as possible. If you are friendly, it will be much harder for your neighbor not to cause you pain.

You can establish a good relationship by notifying your neighbor before you have a party or are doing any other activity that might cause noise or commotion.

When you approach your neighbor about something that bothers you, don’t be frenzied. You can approach your neighbor in a friendly manner and ask them to meet you for coffee. This will show that you care about the subject.

It’s common for neighbors to not realize they are creating problems. Avoid accusing them. Try to imagine yourself in their shoes and assume that your neighbor’s problems are not due to any ill will.

It’s important to raise problems with your neighbor in a constructive manner, but it’s equally important to be considerate and cooperative when you are the one being accused of bad behavior. You may not understand the complaint, such as leaves falling from a tree on your land into your neighbor’s backyard. It’s important to be friendly and accommodating, not to be right. Respond to all complaints or requests in the same way that you would like them to. They will be more inclined to help you if you are willing to make their life better.

You will never need to involve a third party when dealing with neighbors who are not good for you. However, it is possible. It’s important to do everything possible to resolve a problem peacefully and willingly. However, it is also important to keep track of every step. In the event that you have to involve a homeowner association, a neighborhood group or the city’s building department, keep a log of all relevant dates, times and emails. You can also take photos so you can access them if necessary.

Make sure you understand the issue before you file a formal complaint or take legal action. Talk to your HOA or local housing department to find out what the rules and law are about your situation. Before you make a big deal, it’s important to be on the right side. You can then let your neighbor know, again in a friendly and gentle way, that you are following the law.

Even if you are in the right, friendly conversations won’t always solve everything. If your neighbors are still causing problems and you have tried all other options, it might be time to call the authorities. Make sure to consult the appropriate authority regarding the issue and make the police your last stop. A problem with trash on someone’s lawn, for example, can usually be solved by the city’s code enforcement division. A noisy dog or a loose dog could warrant a call to the HOA.

Certain situations can lead to conflict between neighbors, such as buying a house next to one that is a hoarder or has a shared driveway. These situations can cause tension regardless of how friendly your neighbors are. It’s best not to get in touch with your neighbor unless you are very familiar with him.

Original Blog: https://www.trulia.com/blog/how-to-deal-with-bad-neighbors/