Are You a Bad Neighbor? Your Actions Might Be the Reason You Aren't Invited to the Neighborhood Block Party

New home, white picket fence, great community, and-uh oh-terrible neighbors! Nothing could be worse than knowing that you are stuck (at least for a while anyway) dealing with the miserable folks next door.

To keep you from becoming one of the neighborhood outcasts, here are a few undesirable behaviors that you may be exhibiting that have your neighbors seething-and a few tips on how to change those ghastly ways.

You don't keep your lawn manicured. No one really cares that your grass is 4 inches high or that the dandelions are starting to take over, right? WRONG. Even if your homeowner's association allows you to get away with this neglect, your neighbors will probably not appreciate your lack of concern for your turf. After all, this takes away from the presence of their home as well. Take some time to care for your lawn. Hire a landscaper to come out on a set schedule or work out an agreement with your neighbor-when he cuts his grass, he cuts yours also, and the next time the lawns need to be cut, it's your turn.

You play music in your home-at full volume. We know you absolutely love that new Katy Perry album, but chances are, your neighbors just don't want to hear how much she liked kissing that girl. Turn the music down! If you aren't sure how loud is too loud, when playing your tunes, try stepping outside of your home to see if you can hear the music in your yard. If you can, it's too loud.

Your teenager's band practices in the garage until 2 am on weekdays. This behavior is on the same annoying level as the one above. Find a neutral place for your kid's band to practice-one that won't keep the neighbors up at night. Try the band room at your child's school.

Your dog barks nonstop (every night) at 4 am. If you didn't know, you are responsible for your dog's actions. To help with this issue, figure out why your dog is barking. Does he get proper exercise during the day? Does he want to be let out of the house to relieve himself? There are many ways to control unwanted barking. Figure out the best method for your dog so your neighbors can get some sleep at night.

You let your dog roam onto the neighbor's lawn to "potty." Again you are responsible for your dog! Get a fence-this would definitely help keep your pet on your property. If getting a fence is not feasible, take some time out to take your dog for a walk, so he can do his "business" in a non-offending area. If you've done all you can to control your furry friend, and he accidentally uses the neighbor's lawn to relieve himself, take some time to pick up the mess.

You frequently throw house parties-and your guests block your neighbors' driveways. Jamming the driveway (or parking on your neighbors' lawns) is an absolute no-no! If you decide to have an event at your place, talk to your neighbors before-hand to make them aware of it. They will appreciate your consideration and probably not make a big deal if one of your guests does accidentally block them in. And, if appropriate, have the courtesy to invite the neighbors to your shin-dig.

You let your children roam onto the neighbor's lawn to play (or cross the lawn to get to another home). Again, lots of people take pride in their lawns and don't really like it when you disrespect that fact. The resolution to this issue is pretty easy-instruct your kids to play at the playground (or in your yard), and to use the street as the path to their buddies' home.

Your children shoot fireworks out of the neighbor's mailbox. This may be unusual to some, but I must admit-this happened to me personally, and I was more than upset when I saw the remnants of those firecrackers in my box the next day. You should supervise your kids when they shoot fireworks anyway to ensure no one gets hurt. In this case, your supervision will ensure no mail is harmed during those festive events.

I am sure by now you get the hint of what constitutes being a bad neighbor. Obviously, this list could go on and on. If you have determined that, indeed, you are an awful neighbor, don't worry-all is not lost.

How to Get Back on Good Terms

After coming to the realization that you've been a bad neighbor, it might be a good idea to make up with your fellow neighbor(s). After all, who wants to live in a community where you can't have a conversation or trusting relationship with your neighbor?

Have a conversation with your neighbor(s) to let them know you see the error in your ways. If having a face-to-face conversation is too difficult, write them a letter-apologizing for the behavior and assuring them of your intentions to do better going forward. If you want to be extra nice, go the traditional route of baking your neighbors a cake or inviting them over for dinner as a peace offering.

Once your neighbors see that you are genuine in your efforts to become a good fellow citizen, you will more than likely earn their forgiveness and begin to feel that "cold shoulder" warm up a bit.