Bahamas Real Estate and the Messy Neighbour

While not a very common problem, if you've got it, it can have a terrible impact on your Bahamas real estate listing: The Messy Neighbour. If you live next door to a "neglected" piece of real estate here in the Bahamas, you might lose up to 20% of your property's market value, particularly with buyers looking for any excuse to reduce their offer in what is perceived to be a soft real estate market.
It's technically not your problem, but it's well worth your time and effort to try to resolve this situation amicably. After all, you want to get the best price possible for your Bahamas real estate. Always be respectful, and don't let your emotions get the best of you.
Unless you believe your neighbour is "unhinged," you should begin with a visit to their home (or possibly their place of business if the adjacent untidy property is vacant) and a positive attitude - no name-calling or finger-pointing. Don't grab everyone on the block and gang up on your neighbour - you'll get better results if you go alone or with one other person.
If you find your messy neighbour is unwilling to take care of their maintenance, it may still be in your best interest to do the work yourself or with the help of other neighbours. No, it's not fair, but if you want a fair sales price, this may be your only option.
How about telling your neighbour you're hiring someone to spruce up your real estate (or move some rubbish off your property, if applicable) and suggest he (or she) may be able to negotiate a good price with the same person?
As a last resort, you could file a complaint with your Bahamas Property Owners' Association (POA), if you have one, or perhaps the Bahamas Department of Environmental Health.