Where we choose to live can have a huge impact on our physical and emotional well-being. While most people wouldn’t choose to live in an unpleasant neighborhood, many settle for ordinary, when what they really want is a great one.
What makes a neighborhood great? The answers to this can be varied, but most would agree that a great neighborhood is a safe, clean place that we feel like we belong and have support. There is increased satisfaction when we work and play together. A great neighborhood is more than just a place you own/rent a home, it’s a true community that enhances your life.
Why this is so important? It’s easy. The mother who knows she can swap babysitting to run errands and have play dates for her kids is less stressed out. The father who knows he can get help with a home project and borrow a tool instead of buying it is less frustrated. Children who know at least twenty other parents when they are walking around the neighborhood are safer, and who have more playmates, are happier. The elderly woman who knows that her neighbors will shovel the snow from her driveway is less anxious when storms come. Everyone enjoys the feelings of security and comfort that come from a tight-knit community.
When people think of communities like this, we conjure images of June Cleaver in Leave it to Beaver. We think of an era gone by. We picture happy little housewives at home baking cookies while fathers wearing ties go to their desk jobs and come home to clean, tidy children playing with a red ball in the driveway. Did I mention Sparky the dog sitting quietly off-leash on the front porch as well?
It might not be as picturesque as this, but it can be close. I know, because I’m living in one of these communities. I wasn’t aware of it before I moved in; I just got lucky. It’s not like where I grew up on the East Coast, and to the best of my knowledge, there isn’t anything in this area that even comes close to what we have going on here. So why is that?
1. A conscience decision to be organized.
When this neighborhood was built in the 1970s, residents drafted Covenants & Restrictions to keep things looking nice. They drafted by-laws and started both a Home Owners Association and a Community Association, with different and defined functions. They began enjoyable traditions that have carried over through decades.
2. A brand identity.
Throughout the years, the neighborhood earned a reputation. A good reputation can only help increase the value of your home, just like a bad one can do the opposite. There is a positive atmosphere of “this is who we are, and we love where we live.” Like it or not, there is a certain culture and expected behavior to living here, and it’s not likely to change anytime soon.
So, if you are currently living in a neighborhood and long for something better, is it possible to change? Absolutely. Our next few articles will show you how.
Not to mention superb biking and hiking trail access…!