My husband and I moved into the building in October of 2002, and just recently left (August 2007).

On the positive side, the building has professional "by the book" management on site. Maintenance issues are generally handled efficiently, and it is nice to have someone available most of the day to sign for packages. Parking is also secure. Apartments are large, and a number of the units have really nice views. It is also a block away from the San Mateo Caltrain station - pretty convenient for greenbeans who don't want to drive.

On the negative:

1) While rent increases are to be expected, here it is really outrageous, even for an impersonal "corporate" complex. We finally gave notice after our last increase of almost 10%. Although we could afford the rent, we left on principle and are now renting elsewhere. You should note that the owners not only increase rent, but also "fees" for parking and storage each year. During the last 3 years, our payments to this place increased by almost $500 per month.

2) Want your deposit back....Good luck. We had a fabulous rental history with this place, took care of the apartment, and were treated like dogs by the management company - audacious move out charges and threatening letters. Horrible experience moving out.

3) the building (at least on our end - apt 501) is very noisy. While internally the building is quiet (hallways, between apartments, etc), the structure is right in the middle of downtown San Mateo next to a fire station. Sound carries and is amplified, especially when you have an apartment facing the pool. Garbage trucks beeping and slamming metal daily at 5:30 am are also something you need to be ready to handle (if your apartment faces San Mateo Drive).

In the end: if you are renting on a corporate account, in a rush to find something short-term, and/or and need to be in downtown San Mateo, this might be something worthwhile. If you you are a long term renter, I don't suggest living here.

User Responses
From: homeowner2now	Date: 01/15/2008
Thats exactly what i experienced there! EXACTLY!

Your thoughts? Post a response to this review. Display my response: with my username anonymously Responses appear below reviews and one response per user is permitted.

   Free estimates on moving trucks      Find apartment share/roommates