
Yesterday, I had a first time homebuyer close on their new home. They were tickled. They purchased a cozy house that has been lovingly maintained by the same owner for over 30 years. They were happy to find an affordable property in an area of well maintained homes.
Prior to closing, the buyers visited the neighborhood and walked the perimeter of the property several times to envision their plans for a garden, picnic area and perhaps a new fence. They were kindly greeted by the next door neighbor. He was cheerful in providing his name and his occupation (as he works in a division of law enforcement).
With his powerful demeanor he was careful in pointing out that he has been in the neigborhood for a long period of time, and he likes things to be a certain way. As he carefully pointed out his likes and dislikes of each of the neighbors, he was specific in going over his rules in this non deed restricted neighborhood.
The buyers were informed that he likes to go to bed by 9:00, so there will be no noise after 9:00.
He was gracious in informing them that the well on the property line (that was put in by the seller of the property they’re buying) is a shared well, but he will be kind enough in allowing them to use it.
A fence between the properties would not be a good idea, as there has never been a fence between the properties in prior years. A fence would mean that he would have to remove his garden or lose access to the garden that he planted in the neighbors yard (of their new house). He would also lose access to the controls on the well if a fence were in place. And he’d be watching if they considering putting a fence up.
The seller’s daughter told us that he pushed her 80 year mother around every chance he could. Now this is really sad.
It reminds me of the big bad bully on the playground. I thought all that silliness stopped in grade school!
Ugh!
Some people don’t like change. They become set in their ways and they grow accustomed to things being a certain way. They are happy to have things stay the way they’ve always been. I understand that.
But, my goodness, what a warm welcome to the neighborhood!
The buyers for this property are dear people! In their excitement, they laughed off their conversations with this belligerent man. One of them told me that he has no problem in telling this neighbor what he thinks. Since I have known him for years, I have never seen him not speak his mind. And, I’m certain that sometime, someday, he is going to have to do just that.
Well, congratulations to the buyers in the purchase of their comfortable new home!
But, unfortunately I can see some head butting coming in the near future. And please, no fist fights!
Best of luck!
![]()
Sandy Shores REALTOR®, Melbourne/Palm Bay FL Real Estate
Brevard County Real Estate & Investing
I also buy, sell, rent, own and manage Investment Property.
When people sign a lease to rent a property of mine, I always remind them to get renter’s insurance. I explain that my insurance policy covers the building itself, the applicances and liability issues that may arise. However, my policy does not cover their belongings in the event of fire, theft, and natural disasters.
them, and I can’t always remember what they all are. 




