Very good, but perhaps the start of a gradual decline
From:
-Anonymous-
Date posted:
8/13/2004
Years at this apartment:
2004
-
2004
The surrounding community: C
Camden Sea Palms is located about a mile or so west of Triangle Square. As you venture westward along 19th Street, that particular area of Costa Mesa is reminiscent of typical areas of Santa Ana - developing or in transition, but I don't believe it to be a "bad neighborhood" at all. Transients do make parts of 19th and 18th streets their home, given a Soup Kitchen and Goodwill is located on 19th, as well as a city park on 18th. Latino owned businesses also dot 19th street, including salons, eateries, insurance agents as well as mercados--perfect for your carne asada needs :) Please note, the City of Costa Mesa has recently begun a 19th street restoration project. Bottom line: decent area, but still does not justify high rent prices!
Safety: B
Although this is a gated community, the gates seem to be left open more than they should be. I remember at least 3 occassions when the gates malfunctioned or were damaged by some irresponsible drunk. Repairs were never swift. Please note this does not mean that weirdos or unsettling characters will wander in...it just means that problems with the gate are more regular than they should be.
The Grounds/Maintenance: A
Camden's grounds are very lovely and very well kept thanks to their landscapers and maintenance crew. I don't think those gentleman get half the credit or half the respect they deserve. They are very professional, courteous, and genuinely considerate to the residents. The grounds are clean and aesthetically pleasing, augmented by a variety of flowers and shrubbary. Never did I encounter any problems with plumbing, electrical wiring or pests. If action was needed, the maintenance issue was resolved IMMEDIATELY.
Parking: B
I rented a 2 bedroom unit and was assigned 2 spots--one covered and one uncovered. It was ample. However, I'm not sure if 1 bedroom units are givin 2 spots or only one. YOU WILL have problems if you have more than 2 cars or several roommates. Street parking is available on Whittier Ave across from the complex as well as 8 or so visitors spots within the complex (that's right...only 8 visitor spots!)
Noise level: B
During my year long lease I encountered only a handful of instances regarding excessive noise. If I had a problem, I'd go next door and take care of it personally - respectfully and tactfully mind you. That seems to work. Get to know your neighbor and learn to communicate diplomatically. However, I have heard some stories about problem residents, mainly young college students in their first apartment. Management is very responsive, especially if you're a good tenant yourself and have developed a rapport with the staff. Brett and Melanie were great at serving their community and preserving the peace. Kids do like to run around the complex, so you may hear several pairs of little feet rumbling down the walkway...and believe me the vibrations do travel. Additionally, people seem to have the bad habit of letting their doors slam. That you can DEFINITELY hear and feel, even with your TV on at a moderate volume level. By the way, a courtesy service/phoenix security is also available to deal with any noise issues as well.
Office Staff: C
It's rather difficult to rate the office staff as a whole, mainly because it became somewhat of a revolving door of faces. Brett and Melanie were awesome, customer service at it's finest, but they're moved on. I would rate that office team as an A
Shayla was appointed as a temporary staff. Although she was sweet and very approachable, certain administrative duties became neglected to a degree. Although her stay was short, I'd rate her as a B-
Ashley is the most recent staff member. Very competent in this industry, genuinely knows her stuff and runs a tight operation. Unfortunately, I'm convinced that she'd eat her own young. She isn't very charming, nor is she very engaging. Her social skills need some improvement, definitely takes the customer SERVICE out of customer service. Hell, even her "hello" seems a bit forced. Other tenants have described her as cold, unapproachable, aloof, dscourteous, rude...and I quote "a straight up -----." I don't believe her to be that bad...well, maybe. Just give her a chance, and let her know what YOU the tenant expect, and what she can expect out of you. C rating
|
|
I'm the author!
Free estimates on moving trucks
Find apartment share/roommates
