Unkept Lawn Next Door. What to do?

A homeseller in Ohio writes, "We are trying everything to sell our house, because I am being transferred to another city. We are having a lot of problems, when people see the neighbor's yard. It is a real mess, as you can see in the pictures, and we don't know what to do. Any suggestions?"

Dear transferred in Ohio:
Have you tried talking to your neighbor about mowing and picking up a bit? If not, start there. You can offer to help or do the work for them, especially if circumstances in their lives are causing the problem. Whatever you do, ask for your neighbors blessing first, to avoid bad relations or legal problems. You can trim any limb, bush or tree that encrouches over your property line, without asking permission.

If your neighbor is not cooperative... check the deed and zoning restrictions for your neighborhood. Many neighborhoods have specific criteria for home and lawn maintanence. You should have received a copy of your deed restrictions when you closed on your home. If you have misplaced them or did not receive them, a copy will be on file at your local courthouse.

If you do not live in an area governed by deed restrictions, the next stop will the city or county government for your location. Most towns have rules about lawn upkeep, trash removal, hazardous living conditions and abandoned vehicles. The authorities can demand that your neighbors address code violations. Typically, your neighbor will given a short time frame to correct the situation or the city will do the work and charge them for it.

I hope this helps and best of luck on the sale of your home.