October 2022

Whether you’re passing each other in the hallway, sharing an elevator, working out in the fitness center, or relaxing on the rooftop deck, living in an apartment community provides endless opportunities to interact with your neighbors. There are plenty of ways to break the ice early on and maintain a courteous relationship with your fellow neighbors. And a little courtesy can go a long way toward making VIDA a truly special community in Rochester’s Neighborhood of Play.

Greet Your Neighbors

Take the time to introduce yourself as you’re moving in, or as others are. Everyone wants to feel welcome and comfortable in a new place. After you first meet someone, repeat their name in your head several times to help you remember it the next time you see them. Even if you never become friends, greeting a neighbor by name shows you care about the people around you.

Be Considerate About Noise Levels

Sharing walls, ceilings, and floors means it’s possible for some sounds to travel between apartments. Keeping music and TV volumes just loud enough for you to hear, wearing soft footwear if you live above others, and vacuuming when people are typically awake are examples of how you can be considerate. A good conversation starter when you see your neighbors is to just ask them if anything you do is too noisy. And when it comes to parties, let your neighbors know in advance. Making sure they aren’t surprised by a little extra noise goes a long way toward maintaining a good relationship.

Choose Apartment-Friendly Pets

VIDA is proud to be a pet-friendly community. We believe living with a pet is one of the most rewarding relationships you can have. When it comes to dogs, try to choose a breed or mix that is more comfortable with apartment life. If your dog frequently barks, it makes life hard on you and your neighbors. Be transparent with the leasing staff about your current pets or plans for a pet. Also, be sure to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them.

Offer to Help

This one is simple – do something for a neighbor that you would hope they’d do for you. If you see someone carrying a heavy load, offer to help them or hold the door. If you know a neighbor isn’t far behind, hold the elevator for them. If you’re brushing the snow off your car some cold Rochester morning and your neighbor is parked next to you, take a few minutes to brush theirs off, too. Be the first to offer a favor and you’ll always have a helping hand when you need one yourself.