Living in an apartment, odds are you have come across THAT neighbor. The one who puts their head down every day as they walk past you coming home from work. The neighbor who blasts their music at 5 AM as they are getting ready, waking you up right before your alarm goes off (but I had five more minutes of sleep!) We all know this neighbor well, but never want to be them.

Here are four tips to keep you from being the neighbor everyone complains about.

1. Mind your Manners

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If you and your neighbor are leaving for work at the same time in the morning, make sure you acknowledge them by saying hello or waving. Even if you aren’t a morning person, force a sweet smile. Remember the rude person who ignored you after you said hello two days ago? Don’t be like them. If you’re new to your Camden community, introduce yourself to your neighbors in passing and let them know you are their new next door neighbor. If you notice someone who just moved-in, stop them and ask how they are enjoying their new community. Easy enough, right? This can also make future interactions with them less awkward if there are any questions or concerns.

2. Be Neat and Tidy

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Clean up after yourself or friends when you are using amenity spaces. Do you want to work out with someone else’s sweaty weights? GROSS! Wipe the equipment down after working out. If you decide to use the clubroom to watch the big game with your friends, make sure you pick up after yourself and your friends. Be respectful to everyone who uses these common areas; it’s their home too. If you need cleaning supplies, ask your Camden team and they will happily help you. 

3. Be Considerate

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Make sure the friends you invited over for the game are respectful of those living around you and the amenity spaces you are hanging out in. We all get excited when our team makes the winning touchdown, but try to keep from yelling at the top of your lungs, especially if it’s during a time some might already be asleep.  If you’re a night owl and feel inspired to redecorate your apartment, wait to hammer a nail into a common wall you may share with a neighbor. If you feel like spring cleaning after a long day, try to avoid vacuuming at midnight. Remember, someone is trying to sleep next door or below you.

  4. Politely Address Your Concerns

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We’ve all had a noisy neighbor and sometimes enough is enough. If you feel like you are reaching that breaking point, have a conversation with your neighbor and politely voice your concerns. Stay calm and explain to them what has been bothering you. If they start to get defensive or aggressive, walk away and don’t be afraid to involve the staff at your Camden community for assistance. 

Try these four steps to help you become the best neighbor you can be. If you are new to your Camden community, here are five ways to help you meet new people and tips for scouting out your new city.