This company takes advantage of pet owners, particularly dog owners, in markets that don't encourage leasing to pet owners. It also takes advantage of military, and individuals and families new to the area who havent had the time or transportation to shop around.
These apartments are usually 20-40 years old with interior, cosmetic upgrades, but not structural renovations, except minimally. Therefore, you can hear your neighbor flush the toilet, walk around throught-out their apartment, cheer or boo during events, and hear the dog begging its humans to return home.
The utilities are handled by a company called Ista North America, at least the Archstone properties in NOVA. Because these old buildings aren't individually metered, your utility bill is based on communal (group) usage, household size and square footage of your apartment. Needless to say, if you work long hours and travel a lot, you shouldn't have a $110 monthly bill, while your neighbor and three children are billed $135.
Oh, make sure you fill pots full of water the night before, and don't plan on shaving, showering or using the toilet after 9:00 am on any given day of the week. Why? Because bi-weekly, or monthly water shut-offs, maintenance updates are performed. Bi-weekly or monthly in the same buildings.
Parking: You are allowed one space: additional spaces must be paid for. One of my neighbors had a friend visit; the friends car was towed, and she had to pay a $150 towing charge.
Pets. No real dog walk area. Frustrated dog owners use the open areas to exercise their beloved friends, or brave local sidewalks.
Finally, don't trust certain sites that state how great these places are: Do your own research and due diligence, especially military anjd government employees.
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