We’re fortunate to live in a really nice neighborhood with great neighbors. I recently saw a post online where readers were asked “what’s a sign you live in a very nice / expensive neighborhood?”

These are the top 30 responses …

• Extremely quiet streets
• Everything looks clean
• No litter anywhere
• Houses hidden from road
• Large private lots
• Nicely cared-for landscaping
• Lawn-care crews everywhere
• Constant home renovations
• Stay-at-home parents strolling
• Mature trees everywhere
• Underground utility lines
• Well-manicured lawns
• Decorative street signs
• Sidewalks in perfect condition
• Automatic sprinkler systems
• People out walking / jogging
• Neighbors wave 
• Few cars street-parked
• Dog walkers very common
• Unique, non-cookie-cutter homes
• Weekends unusually quiet
• Expensive cars in garages
• No political signs in yards
• Excellent public schools
• Elaborate neighborhood signs
• Very little traffic noise
• Nice bike & walking paths
• Dog waste stations everywhere
• Homes have extensive security

As I think about our neighborhood developments – our home in MN and our vacation place in FL – I’d say we have almost all of these “signs”. That’s true for the most expensive parts of the developments and the areas that are quite affordable.

Both of our places are in developments with strong HOAs and standards – and I think that makes a difference. Some people will prefer to live more independently, but then you are subject to living next to someone who lets their property fall into disrepair or become a mess.

How is your neighborhood and what role do HOAs play in ensuring it’s nice for everyone?

Image: Pixabay