I've definitely been there. A few years back, I bought a small wooded lot intending to build later, and within months the neighbors had already set up a fire pit and lawn chairs like it was their own backyard. Had to politely but clearly remind them it wasn't communal land. Most people mean no harm—they just assume empty land is fair game. Good fences (or at least clear markers) really do make good neighbors, haha. Glad your situation resolved without drama.
That's interesting, but honestly, I think you're giving people a bit too much credit when you say they mean no harm. In my experience, folks often know exactly what they're doing—they just push boundaries until someone pushes back. I've seen clients buy land to hold onto for a while, and suddenly neighbors are parking cars or dumping yard waste there. Sure, clear markers help, but sometimes even that's not enough.
Makes me wonder though... have any of you had to deal with more serious encroachment issues, like someone actually building a shed or driveway partly over your property line? Curious how that played out, because I've heard some real horror stories.
"Makes me wonder though... have any of you had to deal with more serious encroachment issues, like someone actually building a shed or driveway partly over your property line?"
Had something similar happen a few years back. I bought a vacant lot intending to hold onto it for a bit before developing, and within months, the neighbor had extended their driveway about three feet onto my property. At first, I thought maybe it was an honest mistake, but when I approached them about it, they acted like they had no clue—despite clearly marked stakes.
Ended up having to get a surveyor involved and sent them a formal notice. Thankfully, they backed down without too much fuss, but it still cost me time and money. Honestly, clear boundaries and regular checks are key if you're not building right away. People will push as far as you let them... Has anyone else had to escalate things legally, or did talking it out usually do the trick?
Had a similar issue once—neighbor built a fence about two feet into my lot. Approached them casually at first, but they got defensive real quick. Ended up having to get the lawyers involved, unfortunately. In my experience, clear surveys and documentation are your best friends in these situations. It's amazing how fast people back off when you show them official paperwork... Did your neighbor ever admit it was intentional, or did they stick to the clueless act?
Had something similar happen on a project site a few years back. Here's what worked for me:
1. Got an updated survey done ASAP (worth every penny).
2. Marked the boundary clearly with stakes and bright tape.
3. Approached neighbor with coffee and donuts (seriously, food helps).
4. Showed them the survey calmly but firmly—no accusations, just facts.
They backed down pretty quick once they saw the paperwork. Never did find out if it was intentional or just sloppy measuring...but donuts definitely eased the tension, haha.
