OT - Good fences make good neighbors

[AndyC]

Seems really ironic that Carol's neighbours would want to maintain an open feel in a neighbourhood with so little real community.

Also interesting that the houses are so close together. I've noticed a trend around here toward building enormous luxury homes on lots that might be only slightly bigger than average. The result is a bunch of ridiculous mansions crammed together more closely than most small, affordable houses. No side yard, barely a front yard, two sides of the house that can't have windows, and neighbours so close you can practically smell them. They've got to build a big, showy dream house in an upscale neighbourhood, but they obviously can't afford a big enough lot in the nice part of town. And these are just the sort of people who would worry about the toys in somebody's yard lowering their property values. In my mind, they've already messed it up themselves.

[carol]

Andy,

You are so right about the irony! I'm sure that suing homeowners makes a neighborhood more desirable and raises property values! (She says sarcastically.)

I've never lived in a neighborhood with "Covenants" before and I never will again. When I read them, they seemed reasonable. It's the people who "interpret" and "enforce" them who are unreasonable.

Without a doubt, they intended to intimidate, frustrate and outspend me. While they did, and do, frustrate me, I bounce back. So far, they have outspent me by a LOT, but they have failed to intimidate me. I do worry about the "horse head" scenario. I actually go out into the yard with my dog to make sure no one has thrown any poisoned meat over the fence (the gates are locked).

I wish I had neighbors like you guys. I'm amazed that my neighbors have gotten a letter from this Board raising everyone's dues because of this lawsuit and, to my knowledge, NO ONE has complained. Such sheep. They don't want to get involved, make waves, etc. I guess they won't mind, then, when I win and they have to pay damages to me for bringing this frivilous suit in bad faith.

Enough sour grapes for now, Carol

[Deej]

I recently bought my first house. I live in an older neighborhood and most of the homes aren't in top shape(they're not hovels, they're just all 75+ years old). The people range from the elderly to young families with some young renters here and there. Outside of Neighborhood Watch and a group for beautifying a local park, there are no set neighborhood associations.

We originally intended this as a "starter" home, with the intention of moving into a newer house in a more modern neighborhood when we have the finances. After reading some of the crap you guys have had to endure, I think we'll just stay put for awhile. I admire your restraint and the good humor you've shown in dealing with your wack-job neighbors. Good luck and don't let them drag you down.

[JohnL]

>I guess they won't mind, then, when I win and they have to pay damages to me
>for bringing this frivilous suit in bad faith.

Get em! :)