The American Institute of Stress tells us that two of the biggest stressors in life are moving to a new home and changing social dynamics. Camden is here to help with that on two levels. Number one: we’re going to make sure you love your Camden apartment home. And we'll make sure that your move is as seamless as possible with our Move In Experience. Number two, we’re going to give all the tips and tricks to meet your neighbors, be a good a neighbor and change that social dynamic for the better.

If you want to get to know your neighbors, here are some foolproof things to try:

1. Stop and say hello.

Seems simple enough, right? A quick hello as you're off to your busy day, or small chat in the parking lot as you return home. This is a great stepping stone to get to know your neighbors and brighten someone’s day with a pleasant interaction.

2. Park in designated spaces.

Don’t be “that guy.” Nobody likes that guy. Parking in the correct spot creates a ripple effect of everyone being able to park where they need to without frustrations. Happy neighbors = happy living situation.

3. Be a responsible pet owner.

Focus on making sure your sweet pet gets out often, has a leash on, and train them to keep barking under control especially during quiet hours. Make sure you and your pet are ready for anything that comes up with this helpful blog.

Photo courtesy of Camden

4. Be mindful of speed limits.

Safety first! This applies everywhere. Being responsible with speed limits makes everyone safer and more secure.

5. Keep open and shared spaces clean

The amenity spaces are for everyone, so this tip is a simple case of do unto others and you would have them do unto you. You wouldn’t want to throw away someone else’s trash or wipe someone else’s sweat off a machine in the gym, so don’t ask your neighbors to do it for you. These amazing Camden amenities will be impossible to stay away from!  

Photo courtesy of Camden, Camden Vantage in Atlanta

6. Be mindful of noise

Hosting a party? Let your neighbors know, and if it gets too loud, they'll be comfortable to ask you to turn it down. Take it up a step and ask your neighbors to join the get together. They won’t be upset by a little extra noise if they’re part of the fun. See step 12 for more.

Photo courtesy of Kelsey Chance on Unsplash

7. Offer to collect mail or water plants for a neighbor on vacation.

It may seem forward but so many people need these little favors and don’t know who to ask. Making yourself available is kind, convenient and will endear you to your neighbors.

8. Don't be a snoop.

Don’t mind me, just scrolling through this blog…

9. Help carry a neighbor's groceries inside.

Another classic, easy way to be a good neighbor. Hold a door or carry a bag if you see someone struggling and know that you made their day better.

Photo courtesy of hao ji on Unsplash

10. Learn your neighbor's name.

A tip you’ll get from many career coaches is that people LOVE the sound of their own name. We eat it up! Saying someone’s name makes them feel seen, valued and important.

11. Bring over a plate of fresh baked cookies.

Speaking of eating things up… yes please! Try this Camden approved cookie recipe to wow: The Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe.

Photo courtesy of Jade Wulfraat on Unsplash

12. Host a small get-together with your neighbors.

So many things can be solved with a group of neighbors having a conversation with one another. That sound at night, that’s Mary’s washing machine and she’ll run it earlier from now on. Didn’t know where your garbage disposal switch was? Thomas had the same problem when he moved in, he’ll show you.

13. Attend your Camden community's food truck events.

At Camden, we love meeting all our new neighbors. Check with your community on MyCamden.com to see what's scheduled for the month. If you’re nervous remember this, the chances are that the people who live in the same place as you have something in common with you. At the least you live in the same neighborhood and can chat about local restaurants, best grocery deals in the area or new things to try nearby.

14. Have children the same age? Set up a play date.

Suggest this one to your kids and you’ll find out how awesome of an idea it is.

Photo courtesy of Ashton Bingham on Unsplash

15. Return borrowed items.

One last classic tip is to return things you borrow. Especially if you want to borrow other things in the future.

What are you waiting for? Go meet your new best friends!