I lived at Elmwood Square Apartments for almost 3yrs.\r
I was initially attracted to the income limits (rentals are below market value) required to stay here. I was a student in school and needed something cheap. At the time of rental, i had know idea it was a seniors complex, lol! There are middle aged people there too-just not many...and very limited 30yr olds, like myself!\r
For $601.00, I rented a one bedroom. There are a number of good things to express about the apartment and location itself. First, the space is big enough, without being too big or small. There is plenty of light coming from large windows in both rooms. The heating unit is HEPA filtered, there is plenty of storage space, a large closet, each unit has a microwave oven, and best of all, a small balcony overlooking the Elmwood strip. I was very comfortable with these amenities \r
Every door has a bolted lock, cameras on every floor, and pass key is required to enter the building-so i felt very safe.\r
In addition, there is a laundry room, and pop/ snack machines for your lazy days when you don't want to go out. \r
The down side: \r
Elmwood square prides itself in advertising a 24 hour maintenance paging service, however, if there is a problem you need help with-they do not respond-not one phone call comes to you inquiring what you are having trouble with; i have experience with this system b/c i had an issue that needed taking care of, but to no avail! In addition, the elevators break down frequently enough so that you will find yourself climbing the stairs-if you live on the higher floors, that consequence could be significant.\r
Also, to touch on leaks-the drain systems in the building are old-so, my bathtub drain was clogged alot and my bedroom ceiling leaked at one point as well. Very recently the maintenance team started distributing work order slips-complete with date, time, and description of what needs to be done; i recommend saving these-b/c there may be water damage to your apartment that may mean a deduction to your security deposit.\r
During the winter months-if you drive, good luck getting your car out of the lot. The plowing is minimal, and residents do get stuck!\r
The management isn't too neglectful, but inconsistant. The problem here is that the leasing manager isn't old enough to have life experience, and hence, more wisdom to think and initiate problem solving solutions when situations arise. The examples are too numerous to mention in this already too long of a review, but one example is with the problem i spotted with blood/ body fluid contamination and safe handling precautions. I see the staff wearing nonmedical gloves, unchanged after leaving a work area, and then they touch common areas-elevator keys, doors, etc...\r
One final caution: \r
This is a city building, with 12 floors of senior residents-who are retired and have plenty of time on their hands to pry into your life and your guest's lives; these types of residents are the ones you see daily-while the non-troublemakers keep to themselves....FYI. \r
On the whole, if you rent with a specific agenda in mind, keep to yourself, you will enjoy living here. There is plenty to do on elmwood, and the apartments are very comfy! In addition, you will get some free civic lessons on why the city is poor-if you are not too familiar with subsidized living.\r
If you have any trouble with your stay here, you can always call the district manager of Related Management if it doesn't resolve in the leasing office:\r
As far as i know it is still Tamera Fowlston, who is very helpful!\r
she can be reached by e-mail TFOWLSTON@related. com\r
or phone-(716) 440 7218.
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