If there is a silver lining to the events of this year, it is that the idea of a neighborhood has taken on a whole new meaning in the face of the coronavirus pandemic. Over the past several months observations have been made, theories have been assigned, and studies have been done in an effort to understand how neighborhoods are coping in the “new normal.” The overarching theme seems to be a unity based in kindness and commitment to local. This is especially true in River Landing.
Kindness
Kindness isn’t an option any longer. It is essential. When the shelter-in-place mandate moved across the United States, neighbors took to social media to come together virtually. Though they couldn’t gather at the Clubhouse or share a meal at Mad Boar, they could connect on any number of topics via virtual connection. In fact, by late April the New York Times had reported a near 70% rise in participation on sites like NextDoor and Houseparty; neighbors making meaningful connections online. Residents of River Landing began reaching out to each other virtually to share information and create conversation. In fact, neighbors have turned to each other like never before for information on supplies, store inventory, business recommendations, and even public services. Looking for a good cloth mask? A quick post on Facebook and you are likely to find someone in River Landing making masks or telling you who makes them. This year, a recommendation from neighbors has become more important than a user review or a random purchase review.
The Art Of The DIY
As businesses were made to close and only essential businesses were allowed to open with restriction, a number of people found themselves having to make do or try it themselves. In fact, DIY haircuts, at-home workouts, and meal prep hacks began trending on social media. As work and school routines have changed, so have the way people care for themselves and their homes. A new confidence has been born, and a desire to move beyond our comfort zones has encouraged us. After fading in popularity since the 1990s, home offices have once again become coveted in real estate. With workplaces closed in cities nationwide, Americans’ work habits and environments have transformed dramatically. Suddenly millions of Americans are working at home, relying on apps like Zoom, Google Meet, and Skype to conduct business, and spending their free time investing in themselves, their homes, and their passions. If nothing else, COVID has reintroduced homeowners to the skills and talents long forgotten on the commute to work and endless list of errands to be run.
Reaching Out
By the end of summer, after months of sheltering in place, the need for connection has been strong. Medical and mental health professionals have reported that 83% of people in a recent survey say they have dealt with overwhelming feelings of isolation from friends and family. At the same time, parents felt more involved with their children (for better or for worse), and communities like River Landing pulled together to check in on and support each other.
Are you looking to find your new neighbor at River Landing? Interested in becoming part of the community? Contact our Custom Home Program to find out how you can build your dream home and become part of the River Landing family. Call 910-285-1029 or visit www.riverlanding.com/custom-home-program.
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