Good neighbours are good for value

CAN A good neighbour improve your house price?

Yes, says Gerhard Kotzé, managing director of the RealNet estate agency group. He says areas with a strong community spirit are especially soughtafter and make for higher home values.

Areas where neighbours regularly work together to improve security, clean up a park, or protect a wetland, as examples, have a strong community spirit and are not only safer, but also better maintained than others.

While it is worth getting to know the people who live next door and down the road, it is not always easy.

“Of course, it makes things easier if you’re all a similar age, or have similar aged children all going to the local school, but there are other meeting places or interests you might have in common if you make the first move.”

Having a good relationship with your neighbours means you can ask them to keep an eye on your home when you’re on holiday, contact you in case of an emergency and collect your mail.

“But then you need to be a good neighbour in return. Try keeping noise to a minimum, for example.”

The sound of power tools, pets and loud parties can lead to arguments so it’s a good idea to let your neighbours know if you’re having a braai or pool party that may run late, and try to keep your pets indoors during the early hours of the morning.

Beyond your borders: “Keep the areas beyond your immediate garden neat and tidy and your home in good condition, and your neighbours will most likely be motivated to do the same. No one wants to own the shabbiest home on the street,” says Kotzé.

PICTURE: PIXABAY Homeowners are advised to install fencing or walls that offer visibility both in and out.