Tower 801 Apartments

Decent Rentals in a City of Condo Conversions From: -Anonymous- Date posted: 6/7/2008 Years at this apartment: 2007 - 2008   I moved to the tower after living in 2 different rentals in Capital Hill that were converted to Condos. I chose the Tower because the price is comparable to similar residences in Capital Hill with a better location and better amenities. I wouldn't go so far as to call it "ghetto" (I think some of the other reviewers have never really lived in "ghetto" before if they think that's what this is). I moved to this building from a smaller building in Capital Hill where we had a strong community. While the turnover at this building is pretty high, neighbors *do* talk to each other, and you do start seeing familiar faces in the elevator. I had an issue with some noisy neighbors throwing parties on 3am during weekdays. I spoke to the building staff about it and I have never had another problem with this neighbor. I've never heard any gossip or other inappropriate comments about anyone who works there - the staff have always been friendly and professional. It's not a *cheap* place to live by any standard, and it amazes me the number of students or younger unemployed (trust funds') people that live there. There are a fair number of young to middle aged professionals (like me), as well as retirees, living there as well, so it makes for an interesting mix. Pros - - Location. I don't own a car. This apartment is close to all major bus stops and conveniences - Pike Place, Bed Bath Beyond, Westlake Center - and a short bus ride away from all others (QFC on Broadway or Trader Joe's a little further up the hill). When guests visit they can either stay in the Camlin across the street if they have Worldmark timeshares, or in the Grand Hyatt, across the street in the other direction. - Unusual shape. The apartments are circular which makes for interesting layouts. - Balconies! 1 per room - we have a 1 BR and have 2 balconies! - Heated pool and gym. - Views. We have a nice view of the paramount and the interstate, some apartments have better views than others. - On site staff, 7 days a week. While their office hours can be limiting at times depending on your work schedule, it's nice to have staff on site to assist. They are very friendly and professional, and they sign for packages! - After hours security guard. Cons - - Noise. There is always construction going on in the daytime. Blackout curtains can help to cut down with that. - Maintenance. The details and appliances are pretty cheap in the apartment and they do break. You have to remind the maintenance people a few times to fix things. We haven't had hot water in our Kitchen sink for over 6 months - they were waiting on a part. Our toilet broke a few weeks after moving in. Rather than taking the time to paint an "accent" wall we would have preferred they fix the broken stuff :) Also the 24-hour maintenance is not so much. You can usually get them when it's office hours. If you have a car and need lots of space and quiet, don't live Downtown. If you're a young to middle aged professional (or retiree ;) ) looking for a modern, convenient place to live but aren't ready to fork over half a million for a Condo, this is a great place to live.

Recommended: YES Overall Rating

Parking: Maintenance: Construction: Noise:

Grounds: Safety: Office Staff:

I'm the author!

Lived here?

Disclaimer: No attempt has been made to verify or assure the accuracy of the claims made by the author of this opinion or responses. You must judge the truthfulness of any review and accept responsibility for your use of this information.

Pets Not Accepted: Should You Sneak Your Cat or Dog In Anyway? - Sep 29    Apartment Move-In Inspection Tips - Sep 22    How to Get Rid of Mice, Part 2 - Sep 15    Decorating from Smart Garage Sale Purchases - Sep 08    When Your Apartment is a Cell Phone Dead Zone - Sep 01    10 Things Smart Renters Know About Apartment Hunting    How to Break Your Lease Legally