It is a very big achievement to finally get that house in Makati. Sure, it’s just a condo and not an actual house, but it’s practical for your lifestyle and income. You do not have to maintain an entire house and have to worry about security and there are a lot of amenities like private gyms, swimming pools and in-house laundry service.
However, when you buy a condo, you do not only buy the structure, you also buy into a community. You do not simply go there and expect that everyone will be like you or think like you. In short, you have to conform to the practices and rules of that condominium’s community. You have to be considerate to your neighbors and make sure that living in the building will be as pleasant as you expected Makati living to be.
How do you become a good neighbor? You don’t have to be all friendly and send your neighbors cookies and cards. It actually all boils down to respect and cooperation. Here are a few tips:
- Follow the rules and regulations. An apartment in Makati will have its own rules and regulations. You will probably get this document when you sign your lease or when you buy the unit. The rules and regulations is a standard document that all tenants need to follow. If noise levels are moderated or if pets are not allowed, go with the rules. You will quickly be the recipient of irritated or annoyed looks if you ignore these rules. In fact, you may even be sanctioned by the building managers if you insist on breaking the regulations of the condo.
- Common areas are for everyone, not just you. It’s not a house in Makati where you can do whatever you like. Basic things like throwing trash in the waste basket or not leaving anything in the hallways are very important. Pools and the gym (if your condo has one) are shared areas so use them accordingly. For example, do not bring a whole group of friends over and hog the pool all day. Other people are paying for these amenities, too.
- If you get an apartment in Makati, make sure that you strike a balance between keeping to yourself and being concerned. It is normal for you to check out the next door neighbor if you heard terrified screams from their unit, but it’s irritating if you go over and ask them what’s going on every time you hear a plate or a glass crash.
Living in a condo has a lot of benefits, but when you buy a condo, remember that you are entering a new community of people. Make sure that you allow yourself to be a good part of that community by being sensitive and respectful of other people’s space.
