SFH neighbors lowering the appearance of neighborhood

[Jonathan Roveto]

I recently purchased another attached SFH, and I have run into a problem. I purchased the property, and the neighborhood seemed decent enough. I go out of state for a few weeks only to come back to see the neighbors have piled up crap on their porches and generally aren't keeping their exteriors up very well. I'm just starting to try to rent the property out, and I'm fully expecting the neighbors to scare some good tenants off. How does everyone handle unsightly neighbors? I am guessing sending a complain to code enforcement, but that probably won't work I bet.

Heck, if I had more money, I'd offer to buy their properties.

[Marcia Maynard]

I would take the time to walk through the neighborhood and introduce myself to the neighbors in a friendly way.  I would give them my name and number, so they can easily reach me if they see anything unusual happening on my property. I would also engage them in conversation about what they like best about the neighborhood and what they like least. Let them know your values as well and your goal to be a good neighbor.

Then I would do what I could to make the neighborhood better. It may mean just setting a good example. It may mean helping out a neighbor with a maintenance task of theirs or giving them a referral to a good painter. You may want to initiate a neighborhood clean-up and offer to haul stuff to the dump for your neighbors. The goal would be to help each other regain pride of ownership. A tactful manner is imperative. Be very present on your property, doing improvements to your building, yard and garden. Be visible and approachable.

It would also be good to note if the neighbors are home owners or renters. If renters, you may be able to reach out to the landlord for support. But either way, it's a reflection of pride in their home. Which can be tricky. Best to start off with developing a good relationship with the neighbors and guiding them in the right direction, rather than calling code enforcement. Of course, if there is present danger or fire hazard, calling the authorities would be warranted.