How to Be a Good Neighbor in a Gated Community

Call me Captain Obvious, but saying “hello” goes a long way. These days, it’s not far-fetched to pass someone on the sidewalk and get totally ignored. Cellphones have forever changed the way people walk.

But I promise you, all of those great cat photos will still be there when you get home. Besides, oblivious walking is incredibly dangerous in Florida. Ever see a cane toad?

Nothing puts me in a sad mood like going for a walk on garbage day. Vultures are picking open garbage bags, trash is blowing down the street, and plastic bags are drifting into retention ponds.

In addition to getting a bear-proof garbage can, consider getting two. Any trash piled on top of that can is going to end up in your neighbor’s yard. Not great for your popularity.

In Florida, it’s not uncommon to see three or four cars on the driveway. Without basements, our garages become the defacto storage space.

And most people totally respect that. But blocking the sidewalk is actually dangerous. Believe me, your neighbor won’t be too thrilled if a gator nips their ankle while they’re trying to circumvent your vehicle.

I’m guilty of ignoring this one. My husband and I often work 12 hour days or longer. In the hustle and bustle, I may have let a dead tree linger in my garden.

So let this be a reminder to me as well as you, no one wants to look at our dead plants or the folding table that’s still outside my front door. BRB, gonna go put it in the garage right this second.

If you live in a gated community in Florida, there’s a good chance that you live on a retention pond. For anyone who’s new to swamp living, keep in mind that sound travels across water.

There’s a scientific reason for that, but all I can tell you is that a fight with your spouse could end up becoming reality TV for those across the pond. With that in mind, may I recommend investing in a popcorn maker?

I know how tempting it is. Someone says something stupid on Facebook, and you immediately want to fire back. But trust me, resist the temptation.

It’s easy to feel aggressive behind the comfort of a computer screen, but these are the same people you’ll be seeing at the community pool. If you really have a problem with someone, it’s best to deal with it offline. Seeing someone face-to-face forces you to remember that they’re human too. And that’s a good thing.

And don’t blow through stop signs. Whether you live in a 55+ community or a neighborhood of young families, speeding is a sure-fire way to make enemies. I know 40 mph might not feel fast; but when you’re driving through a neighborhood, you could seriously hurt someone (and their pet).

While we’re at it, don’t let your kids drive the golf cart. Not only is it against the law, but it’s also a lawsuit waiting to happen. When everyone’s HOA fees go up, that’s when the fighting really starts.