I really like living here, and have been here over a year now.
Plusses:
Great for families!:There is quite a bit of free play space, old school (fun) playgrounds, and a pool. There are many friendly kids, out riding bikes in groups, and you can let them play outside without worry. I have seen too many neighborhoods where you know there are kids, but they are all indoors. This is not like that! There are kids all over.
Location: Great if you do not have a car, or don't want to drive a lot. It is right on the citywide bike path, across from a bus station, and next to Beltline. Easy walk to Dollar Store, several grocery stores, fast food, diner/restaurants, donut place, and Goodwill. Can also walk to the river.
Easy terms: You don't need a lease, though you save $25/mo by having one, and there are multiple lease lengths to choose from. You do NOT need good credit or anything, its very simple. *You can NOT have a criminal record* (there may be exceptions, I don't know.) Also takes Sec 8.
Size/comfort: Apartments are big, lots of storage, and the layout is good. The kitchens are big enough you can have a full size table and lots of room to spare. You can also use your space out back however you want, to garden, and grow plants, as well as just about any other area with mulch. The appliances are pretty new, the windows are nice. You can usually get a unit with new carpet as well. Landscaping is nice. It is pretty quiet from 8pm-8am, but the occasional party is OK.
Cost- Fairly priced, low utility costs.
Management: The manager is really nice, and helpful. They do repairs in a reasonable time frame, and you can make a request online. I have not had a problem getting things fixed when needed, and the repair people are polite. If you are not a jerk, you will never have an issue with management, and they are on site.
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Minuses:
No Amenities: Apartments do NOT have washer/dryer hook ups, There is on site laundry, though. NO covered parking of any kind. NO AC (use a window unit),
NO central heat. It has ceiling heat, which I like and keeps costs down, but can be considered a minus.
Old units: This is not a fancy, or upscale, place at all. It is basic. There are no upgrades like granite countertops or wood floors, and the exterior is nothing special. Its is plain, and kind of dated, old countertops and ugly floors- but neutral enough that its not a big issue. There are sometimes maintenance issues that are common to Oregon and old units, but they do get fixed when requested.
Location: Not a cool part of town, no fun bars or breweries or trendy restaurants anywhere within a few miles. This is a working class neighborhood, which is good for some, and not for others.
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If you do not like living in a working class neighborhood, with some low income people, and immigrants, this is NOT the place for you. If you like friendly people, and "free range" kids, you may love it. We were planning on staying just long enough to find a rental house, but ended up really liking the people. read more