Millennial Homeowners, It's Time To Shut Up About Your Boomer Neighbors

I have often felt like an interpreter and negotiator between two very headstrong generations: boomers (those born between 1946 and 1964) and millennials (those born between 1981 and 1996). I myself am a Gen Xer, born between 1965 and 1980, also known as the forgotten generation – or as I like to call us, the "middle child" generation. Because I was raised by boomers and I am the older sibling to two millennials, I feel uniquely qualified to discuss this subject. I have heard the complaints each generation has made about the other, and both sides have some merit. One common millennial gripe is that they dislike their neighbors, and tensions can be especially high with boomer neighbors, who are sometimes blamed for being annoying, nosy, or just plain boring. I'm sorry folks, I have to side with the boomers on this one. If, as a millennial, you purchased a home in a neighborhood that is primarily composed of boomers, and you're complaining, that sounds like a "you" problem. And honestly, it's just one example of why you should talk to neighbors before buying a new home.

One very important thing to remember is that if you can afford to buy a home in a boomer neighborhood, you should count yourself lucky. There are many millennials who feel they can't afford to buy a home at all – and this problem can't be pinned on just one generation. Secondly, you should be preparing yourself for the ire of Gen Z and Gen Alpha, because every generation complains about those that preceded it. Now, don't get it twisted, I don't think boomers are perfect and undeserving of any criticism. I'm just saying that there are a few reasons why many of us should actually consider ourselves lucky if we have boomer neighbors.

Many of the traits boomers are roasted for are interpreted as generational flaws, but the reality is that it is more about life stages. As someone who is staring down the barrel of midlife, I am starting to understand why older people may dig their heels in on certain issues and adopt a "devil may care" mentality about annoying their neighbors. But the reasons millennials most likely chose their home in a boomer-filled neighborhood are often the result of that generation's behaviors.

One thing many millennial homebuyers look for is neighborhood safety. You may call it nosy, but because boomer neighbors tend to pay attention to what's going on in their community, they might see potential safety concerns before you do, and they aren't afraid to say something. Knocking on doors, complaining about unleashed dogs, or sending emails about potholes might seem petty, but considering that safety is one of the main reasons millennials are moving out of cities and into suburban areas occupied by boomers, you should be happy that they're looking out for you. This is just the tip of the iceberg of why boomer neighbors deserve a little more credit.

Some other things that millennials might desire in a location are affordability, space, quiet, and a charming hometown feel. One thing they are also willing to pay a little extra for in a home is neighborhood walkability. Coincidentally, boomers also value having peaceful streets, well-planned communities, and access to nearby amenities. It's not boring; it's the dream.

Most boomers believe that they are good neighbors, and for the most part, they are, but millennials don't value neighborly relationships as much as boomers do. The post-war generation grew up in a culture of civic-mindedness, when it was commonplace to connect with your neighbor over beer and barbecue on a Saturday afternoon. They didn't need exciting hobbies or thrilling entertainment when plenty of enjoyment could be found in their backyard. While you might find the constant lawn mowing annoying and wish your neighbor would "get a life," they're perfectly happy to spend a weekend toiling, and that's the reason your neighborhood looks so welcoming. 

Honestly, I learned to love it when my boomer neighbor mows the lawn. I just grab a couple of beers and sit on the porch with him after he's done. We have some really great chats, and that's saying a lot considering I'm extremely antisocial otherwise. I've discovered that generalizations can be extremely damaging; not all boomers are greedy, wasteful jerks, just like not all millennials are entitled, lazy brats.

Having "boring" neighbors can benefit you too. Because they're often home, your boomer neighbors will be the first to help you find your lost dog, protect your packages from porch pirates, and check on you if they suspect you've had a rough week. Boomer neighbors are the best people to notify if you're going to be out of town and you need someone to keep an eye on your house. And you will never get a Gen Z stare from a boomer — just saying.

The truth is that boomers grew up in a time of rapid societal changes and the looming threat of war. Sound familiar? They were handed the baton from their hardworking yet stoic parents, known as "the Greatest Generation," without any real instruction or help. It's true that many boomers benefitted from a thriving post-war economy and went on to play a hand in the economic mess that's been passed down to millennials. But throughout their years, boomers were largely minding their business and doing their best to build a secure life and raise a family. Many of them tried to fight the system in their youth, jumping on board with social movements of the '60s and '70s, but eventually became disillusioned, and basically said, "Forget it, I'm going to take care of myself and mine." Millennials and boomers are basically the same people following the same path, just at different stages of life.

Ultimately, we all value similar things, especially when we reach the age when many people buy their first house. We just want to have a safe and comfortable home where we can escape from the chaos, hang out with family and friends, and tell the rest of the world to mind its own business. Being a human is hard enough in general — wouldn't it be better to have a wise and experienced older neighbor you can trust? To quote my favorite old man from 1986's "The Legend of Zelda" game, "It's dangerous to go alone! Take this."