Making a new house a home starts with the people you surround yourself with. And that goes for your neighbors, too. Developing relationships with them is beneficial in so many ways – from borrowing a cup of sugar to sharing a friendly wave as you pass on the street. And since you’re probably spending the majority of your time at home due to Covid-19, it is more important than ever to get to know your neighbors so you can be there for each other during these unprecedented times. If you’re planning to buy or sell a home soon, you might appreciate these ways to build rapport with your new neighbors: Simply say “hello.” Smile, wave and comment on the weather. If you’re new in town, ask if the neighbor can recommend a good landscaper or pizza place. Hang outside. Spend time on your front porch or tossing a ball to the kids on the front lawn to increase your odds of social interaction. Pay a compliment. Tell your neighbor how much you admire their roses or ask them who installed their beautiful fence. A small word of kindness can make a big and lasting impact. Walk your dog. Pets make great wingmen. Research suggests that strangers are more likely to strike up conversations with people who have dogs with them. (Babies too) Do something nice. Offer to help mulch a garden or mow a lawn. A small act of kindness can do wonders to foster goodwill. Try an app. Many neighborhoods have pages on Facebook or Nextdoor where residents can share information about community news and events. Neighbors are just one of the many important factors to consider when planning to buy or sell a home. As a local area expert, I can help you determine what matters most to you. And I’ll consult with you on the current value of any home. Just let me know how I can to support your real estate needs—reach out any time!