Family as Neighbors: Fantastic or too close for comfort?

Question

Let's say you and your sibling (who you have a great relationship with) are now grown, married, and have kids the same age. Your spouses also get along like best friends.

What would you think if they wanted to move into a home on the same block as you? A good idea or too close for comfort, and why? Thanks.

Answer 1

I think it all depends upon the people involved. One idea is to make sure you all understand that each family will need their own space at times. Open and honest communication is the key, as well as respecting each others boundaries.

It would be a great opportunity for the cousins to grow up so close to each other.

Best to you, your sister and your families.

Peace & take care,
debm

PS: I've lived next door to my in-laws for about 10 years now. I couldn't have asked for better neighbors. It's really important to respect each other's space and to not take advantage of each other, but to be their for each other when needed.

Answer 2

Of course it depends on the individual situation, but from personal experience I do not think it is a good idea. No matter how close your relationship is becoming neighbors is quite different from visiting from across town or from another area altogether. Once you become neighbors you are in each others lives on a whole different level. Suddenly every aspect of your lives are shared and you don't have the same level of privacy. Your individuality and personal space become breached and unless you can set and maintain rules regarding popping in unannounced at any time etc, tension will inevitably set in and there will be a strain on the relationship that was never there before. I am not saying that these things would definitely happen, but rules and boundaries would certainly have to be discussed and open communication would have to prevail to prevent such close proximity from causing a gap that cannot be breached if left unattended. Good Luck. My husband and I did not take heed of the signs quickly enough and set those rules and boundaries with his family in this same circumstance and they took such advantage of us that we now do not speak to them at all. Sometimes the thing you think will never happen does happen and you are left to pick up the pieces wondering how you could have not seen it coming. Just tread softly and take care to make sure you are not disrespected and show the same respect you expect to them as well.

Answer 3

Too close for comfort. Even though the relationship is great, problems can and will arise from living too close. Continue to be close, live in the same town, just don't live on the same street. .

Answer 4

Its a great idea. Babysitting each others children. Cookouts and family dinners every Sunday. You don't have to see each other every day or every other day for that matter. Just when you want to. I live next door to my sister. We see each other twice maybe three times a week. If an emergency comes up she doesnt need to go far for help. It can work if you really want it too.

Answer 5

My sister lives next door. Trees block our view of her house. It's been quite nice when emergencies have come up and we don't seem to have any problems due to closeness. The key is not popping over out of nowhere. Both homes deserve privacy.

Answer 6

If you all get along really well, then I think it would be a good thing. You could get together for family barbeques, trade babysitting, etc...

Answer 7

ever watch Everybody Loves Raymond?
it's a good hint

Answer 8

Sounds wonderful to me. If everyone is getting along...what if one couple has troubles???

Answer 9

too close

its natural : you age, you seperate