Neighbourhood barbeques, sharing a six pack in the afternoon, feeding each other's dogs... Nope, it's not
Ramsay Street – this could be you and your neighbour. There are many benefits to befriending your neighbour, from the practical (someone to watch your house when you're on holidays) to the emotional (playing nice with the neighbours is always better than fighting with them).
A good neighbour will introduce themselves to you as soon as you move in. Of course, in this day and age, some people worry about dealing with strangers so you might have to take the first step. If you haven't already, head next door or across the road and introduce yourself – it's that easy! You will probably find that your neighbour is open to a relationship but he or she has been too shy to say hi.
If you've got a grumpy neighbour, ease into a friendship by smiling and waving from a distance. When they begin to return the communication, up the ante by starting a conversation about their garden, car, etc. You might want to sweeten the deal by bringing them some of your famous chocolate chip cookies or doing them a small favour like mowing their council strip.
Another way to ingratiate yourself with the neighbours is to invite them to any parties or barbeques that you throw. This way, you get to know them and you prevent them from complaining about the noise by being a part of it!
The last Sunday in March is
Neighbour Day in Australia. Make it your goal to either introduce yourself on this day or to celebrate the day with your neighbours.
