Where are you located (for plant recommendation)?

Connecticut

I'd get some fast growing evergreens. Your neighbor has started with some spruces, but they will take years to create some privacy.

Does loroptalum do well there? They are evergreen, have pretty spring blooms and certain varieties can grow to 12 feet high under the right conditions.

You can plant a mixed shrub border that includes some small flowering trees. Shrubs like viburnum, hydrangea, witch hazel, rhododendron. Trees like redbud, dogwood, service berry and holly.

Nothing creates instant privacy like a fence does. No waiting 10 years for things to grow enough to screen your sunbathing.

IMO a fence is the answer especially if your neighbors have dogs or kids. Do you have a HOA that needs to be approached first.

A standard six foot fence in that setting will not do much to create privacy for the house and will only make privacy for the yard when you are standing closer than ten feet from it.

Thank you all, appreciate your advice and recommendations!

I’d work on resolving for both short and long term and suggest using a landscape designer. You can then do as much or little of the work on your own over time.

Short term: decide on a suitable location where you can start enjoying your privacy ASAP by adding a trellis and optional arbour. Climbers are quick growers and in no time, they will add even more privacy.

Long term: I‘d skip a border of trees for so many reasons and instead use variations and plant strategically, where they will have the most impact. Creating a berm will also help with the added height. Also add to the area that is already there.

Your yard will eventually have natural looking barriers and also down the road if selling, really increase the value of your home.

https://www.hunker.com/13713309/how-to-create-a-shrub-island-landscape-berm

Thank you so much! This is great and really helpful!