Moved there in early May after several mutual friends raved about the place. Rented a two-bedroom, great layout, but cheap materials were used to build certain aspects (wall jacks, plumbing hardware) Just little things here and there. While this didn't take away from the value of dollar to square foot ratio, it's still on the down side. The pools are the best I've ever seen at a community like this. I would compare scenes from the best spring breaks you've ever had. A huge plus.

If you're between 21-29, this is the place for you, if you don't mind the noise and loud cars. It seemed EVERYONE there had a dog and didn't pick up after them. You can't walk in the grass anywhere on the property and not see pet waste. It's a shame really. I can only assume that at one point the grounds in Phase IV (where I lived) looked really nice. Watering dead trees in the middle of summer just doesn't add up to me.

The BIGGEST downside is the thin walls and floors at least in Phase IV. I was on the third floor and could hear the people below me walk around. The hallways act like stereo speakers when neighbors open and close doors (slamming). Not much you can do about it, but just know it's there.

The leasing staff initially were very helpful in us getting into the apartment. If you talk to someone about renting and call back later, or the next day, don't expect to get a hold of the same person. None of my phone calls to my initial leasing agent were returned. The BEST service I received while there were from the accounting staff. Michelle Holcomb was very helpful, understanding, and went out of her way to assist me.

I saved the best for last. Phase IV apartments are horribly insulated. The front door didn't fit the frame correctly and you could actually fit four fingers horizontally through the sill.

Finally, you have to decide if this huge community is right for you. To be perfectly honest, I think Austin Ranch has outgrown itself. Tenants at any complex make it what it is. Good or bad. It's too big to maintain and keep everything up and looking nice. It's like really a small town but with no small town atmosphere. It's a work hard, play hard kind of place.



The leasing agents will tell you that Austin Ranch sells itself. That I can tell you is true. However, it can easily in the later months of your lease talk itself right out of staying. Look beneath the polish and ask A LOT of questions before moving.

PROS:
Lot's of amenities and things going on during the summer.
AWESOME pools
Close to two great bars
Great value if you can get a special.

CONS:
DON'T EXPECT YOUR DEPOSIT BACK! (updated May 29 2009)
Poor quality of materials used (Phase IV)
noisy at night at odd hours (loud cars and dogs barking)
expect monthly utility bills no matter your provider in the mid to high $200 range (I used energy saving bulbs and I'm an energy miser)
condition of the grounds (horribly maintained)
lots of pets and owners who have no regard for others
BOTTOM LINE: Only recommended to the college and post college ages and those who can tolerate noise. (21-29) It's almost unfair that Austin Ranch gets a bad-rap mostly because of the people that live there!

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