Not only do they want the value of the house to go up, but they don't want anything around them to change. No new 5-story condo complex on that one corner. My neighbor shouldn't add a second floor and block my view.

I think it’s worth pointing out that you and your neighbors actually do have a voice in local government. You don’t just have to sit there and take it. NIMBYs have realized this and actually show up to be counted. You can too.

"No change" is usually the much stronger behavioral driver than "increased property value."

"Don't turn this into Manhattan" is such a common refrain yet turning it into Manhattan would wildly increase their land value.