The model answers below are taken from a members-only video lesson.
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Download the audio track and full transcript of the lesson here:
https://buymeacoffee.com/tracywang/extras
Speaker : Finn
Do you know the people who live next door to you?
Yeah, I do. I live in an apartment near my university, so I’ve gotten to know a few of my neighbours quite well. The guy next door is actually a graduate student, so we sometimes chat about classes or university life whenever we run into each other in the hallway.
How often do you talk to your neighbours?
Not every day, but probably a few times a week. Most of the conversations are pretty casual, like greeting each other, talking about the weather, or discussing something happening in the building. Sometimes we also help each other out with small things, like collecting deliveries.
What kind of relationship do you have with your neighbours?
I’d say it’s friendly but respectful. We’re not extremely close friends, but we get along well and there’s a comfortable atmosphere between us. I think that’s ideal because everyone values their own privacy while still being approachable.
Have you ever asked a neighbour for help?
Yes, definitely. A few months ago, I accidentally locked myself out of my apartment, and one of my neighbours let me use his phone to call the landlord. It was a stressful situation at the time, so I really appreciated his kindness.
Do you think it is important to have good neighbours? Why?
Absolutely. Good neighbours can make your daily life much more pleasant and less stressful. For example, if there’s an emergency or you need help with something small, it’s reassuring to know that the people around you are supportive and trustworthy.
What qualities make someone a good neighbour?
I think respect and consideration are the most important qualities. A good neighbour should be polite, avoid making too much noise, and be willing to help others when needed. Being friendly also matters because it creates a more positive living environment.
Did you know your neighbours well when you were a child?
Yeah, I actually did. I grew up in a small neighbourhood where everyone knew each other, so it felt very close-knit. My parents were quite friendly with our neighbours, and as kids, we often played together outside after school.
Have you ever had any problems with neighbours?
Fortunately, nothing serious. The only issue I can remember was having a neighbour who played loud music late at night. It was a bit annoying during exam season, but after a polite conversation, the situation improved quite quickly.
Would you prefer to live in a place where neighbours are close to each other?
I think so, yes. Living in a friendly community can make a place feel safer and more welcoming. That said, I still value personal space, so I’d prefer a balance between being sociable and having privacy.
How can neighbours help build a stronger community?
Neighbours can strengthen a community by supporting each other and staying connected. Even simple things like greeting one another, organizing local events, or helping during difficult times can create trust and a sense of belonging among residents.
Speaker: Blondie
Do you know the people who live next door to you?
Yeah, I do. On one side, there’s a young couple around my age with a ridiculously cute golden retriever, so we chat a bit because of the dog. On the other side, it’s an elderly lady who’s lived in the building for ages. We aren’t best friends or anything, but we definitely know each other by name.
How often do you talk to your neighbours?
Not constantly, to be honest. Usually, it’s just a quick “hi” or some small talk about the weather when we bump into each other in the hallway or by the mailboxes. I’d say it happens maybe once or twice a week. Everyone’s pretty busy running their own errands.
What kind of relationship do you have with your neighbours?
I’d describe it as friendly but respectful of boundaries. We’re on good terms, meaning we smile and say hello, and I know they’d look out for my place if I went away for the weekend. But we also value our privacy and don’t overstep.
Have you ever asked a neighbour for help?
Actually, yes. A few months ago, I had this massive flat-pack clothing rack delivered, and it was way too heavy and awkward for me to get from the lift to my front door by myself. My next-door neighbour happened to be coming out of his apartment just as I stepped out of the lift, and he kindly offered to give me a hand with it.
Do you think it is important to have good neighbours? Why?
Absolutely. Having decent neighbours gives you a massive sense of security and peace of mind. If there’s an emergency, or even just a minor inconvenience like getting locked out, knowing there’s someone trustworthy right next door makes life a lot less stressful. Plus, bad neighbours can make your home life pretty miserable.
What qualities make someone a good neighbour?
For me, the absolute top quality is being considerate, especially when it comes to noise levels—no one wants to hear blasting music at midnight on a Tuesday. Aside from that, just being approachable and willing to lend a hand when needed, while still respecting people’s personal space.
Did you know your neighbours well when you were a child?
Oh, definitely. I grew up in a suburban neighbourhood where all the families knew each other. All the kids on the block used to play outside together until sunset, and our parents would constantly hang out or host barbecues. It felt much more tight-knit than apartment living does now.
Have you ever had any problems with neighbours?
Touch wood, nothing major! I did live below someone in my university dorms who seemed to love pacing around in heavy boots at 3 AM. It drove me a bit crazy, but a polite note under their door sorted it out pretty quickly. Since then, I’ve been pretty lucky.
Would you prefer to live in a place where neighbours are close to each other?
At this stage in my life, I quite like having a bit of distance. I value my independence and privacy, so living in a place where everyone is up in your business doesn’t really appeal to me. A bit of physical and social space is ideal.
How can neighbours help build a stronger community?
It really starts with the small things, like organising a local block party, setting up a community garden, or even just having a group chat for the building to share updates. When people take the time to look out for one another and create those micro-connections, it builds a massive sense of belonging.
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