I lived in these apartments for 14 months and was mostly a happy resident here…read more
These apartments appear to have been a great real-estate investor opportunity a couple years ago where they have been renovated to suit a more affluent resident. This is good and bad because even though the units have been improved, the overall neighborhood hasn't. As such, it appears the property management company is under the impression that if they raise the price of rent to that of a Scottsdale-luxury apartment, it will just magically improve. My neighbors and I were among the $900/month cohort, and all of us eventually moved out when they increased rent to $1000+ per month.
I'd say the aesthetics of the apartment are decent. I'd say about a 7 out of 10. Note that the previous property management company did a rush job on the painting and maintenance, so expect a few minor things to break or fall apart on you. Be sure to take numerous pictures of everything (and note all of them upon move-in inspection), so natural deterioration won't be held against you. I did not have any leaks or problems, but I have heard a few stories from my neighbors.
The appliances and furnishings were brand-new in 2015. The kitchen backsplash is also a nice touch. The incandescent bulbs in the mason jars are a bit over the top and unnecessary. At least use CFL or LED bulbs, but this is just my preference. They are also in the process of upgrading everyone's windows to Low-E (energy-efficient) windows. I could definitely notice a difference, so if you haven't had yours upgraded, go ahead and ask the management team to schedule it in. I think they upgrade them when residents leave, but I'm not sure. The walls are made of block and I couldn't hear any of my neighbors, which was wonderful.
The apartments are located along the SRP water canal. Right behind the canal is the AZ-51 highway, and it does generate a decent amount of white noise. I didn't realize how much noise there was until I moved away. Not a big deal, but if you're hoping for silence and serenity outside, it won't be found here. I suspect if you live in the middle of the units, the noise will be mostly insulated away. Be sure always to lock your doors, hide your valuables, and be vigilant against questionable activity happening along the canal.
Unlike most apartments, the management team isn't on-site. Having increased privacy is great, but it also means that they don't get to respond as quickly for typical maintenance issues. The renovations to the pool are interesting, to say the least, but you can conclude that the management team is trying their best to deliver a luxury experience for residents.
OVERALL, you will be happy living here. There are a diverse set of residents and all of which are pleasant. The management team is mostly hands-off (which I like), and the apartments are attractive on the inside. However, be sure to ask questions, talk to other neighbors, and take note of the conditions of the neighborhood. From what I can tell, the management team is willing to accommodate most people's requests. Check them out and ask them about what they have done to improve the place - I'm sure they'll be happy to share.
Things that need to be improved:
-- Doors need peepholes (viewers) so you can see who is at your door.
-- Washers and dryers should be upgraded to full-size stackable units. Current units are not as efficient and consume a lot of electricity.
-- The back area near electrical service panels needs to be accessible. If you trip a circuit, residents will be unable to access.
-- Parking lighting needs to be improved. The lumens from the LED lights are about 800 and are only on for a short period (30 seconds, maybe).
-- The cost of water is too high given the cost of rent. I would consider just including it. For $1000 a month plus tax, I expect water and electric included.
-- Adjust the water pressure, so it doesn't reduce water flow as much. The management company just changed my water pressure without any notice and water just dribbles out of the shower.
-- Stop spending so much time on the aesthetics. Focus on service and attention to existing residents. Ensure all gates lock securely, parking lots are well-lit, and are free of rocks and debris.
-- Contact the local FedEx, UPS, OnTrac, and Amazon delivery services to ensure they have keys to the perimeter gates. Frequently, I had neighbors accept my packages or had to answer frantic phone calls from the Amazon driver since they can't get in.