Good Neighboring Tips & Tricks
Whether you are living in a rental house, duplex, or apartment, it’s a good idea to get a sense of what your neighborhood is like and the expectations of your neighbors. One of the easiest ways to do this is to meet your neighbors!
Introduce yourself
This is the first step in building a good relationship. If your neighbor knows your name and a little bit about you, they’ll see you as the unique individual that you are and not as “just another college student.”
Keep Neighbors Informed
Give your neighbors a heads up before undertaking anything that might affect them, like getting a dog or puppy, or hosting a big party. Consider exchanging phone numbers, so they can give you a quick text if they are frustrated by your noise levels and considering escalating the situation.
Be Honest
If tension exists between you and your neighbor, approach them and discuss the issue as soon as possible. For the benefit of the relationship, try to work out a compromise to your dispute before escalating an issue or filing a complaint. Once the police have been called, relationships are hardly ever the same. If you need support in these conversations and live in East Lansing, the Neighborhood Resource Specialists would be happy to help you.
Be Aware of Differences
Age, faith, ethnicity, and family status are just some of the things that can affect how a person goes about their daily life and the hours they keep. Being aware of differences between you and your neighbors can help you better understand one another and improve your ability to build a positive relationship.
Ask How You Can Help
Neighborly gestures contribute to a positive and welcoming community for all! Is your neighbor elderly and could use support in shoveling? Lend a hand! It’ll help your neighbor out and make you feel good.
Learn Community Expectations and Local Ordinances
Knowing local laws and community rules can make your experience as pleasant and trouble free as possible. Check out our local ordinances page for information on ordinances throughout the Greater Lansing Region.
Participate!
Take part in neighborhood gatherings and offer a smile or friendly greeting when out and about! Bath, East Lansing, Lansing, and Meridian (Okemos) neighborhoods all have vibrant communities. Attend the local farmers market, take your dog for a walk to the local park/playground, tell your neighbor how beautiful their flowers are as you walk by, etc. Small gestures of kindness go a long way in building a vibrant community!
More information for ways to participate and get involved:
