Review History for anonymous

The Portage


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anonymous

Resident 2014 - 2015

2/18/2015

I've lived here for almost a year, and am not renewing my lease. I have enjoyed living here, don't have many complaints, but it's far too expensive for a small apartment. It's the perfect location, yes, but that's exactly what you're paying for. Apartments are small, some have renovations and granite counter-tops. Oven and dishwasher (at least in my studio) were half the size of a regular oven and dishwasher, so many times I couldn't use baking pans in my oven. Walls are thin (not sure why others say they aren't.. I can hear everything my neighbors say) and even if windows are closed you can still hear outside noise. Firehouse is down the street so sirens are off at all hours of the day (not an issue for me, but could be for others). Parking is ATROCIOUS. Probably the worst thing about this place. It is a first come, first served basis, but good luck ever trying to find a spot in the lot even after 6pm. Tiny lot with not even enough spaces for 1/2 the tenants. Next option is street parking, but being on Lake Calhoun that is a joke as well. In the summer, street spots are taken by visitors to the lake and in the winter, snow is always covering everything. Also, people must forget how to park around here because there is always one car taking up space for 2! Ridiculous and annoying. I've never had a problem with the management, though. I've only ever communicated with them during my application process and a short time afterward, as I haven't needed to contact them much after moving in. Apartments come with A/C window units, but good luck trying to use any other power outlets when that's running. I tried blow drying my hair a few times when the A/C was on, and blew a fuse. I just stopped using A/C all together (mostly because it is super expensive to run). There aren't thermostats in the apartments, so you can't adjust your own heat. My apartment has been freezing this winter, and I'm always wearing lots of layers and under lots of blankets. Many times I took a hot shower to get warm--which was always nice, I've never had an issue with running out of hot water, and it always heats up in a minute or two. Smokers are annoying, but management just sent out a notice that they are becoming a smoke free building, and all new leases will state this. They hope to be smoke free by May 2016, so that's a plus. Secured entry is a plus as well, it's nice to have the extra security. My studio has LOTS of storage space and was just the right size for me, myself, and I, but as noted, it's just too expensive for me right now. It's my first apartment out of college and it was perfect for me. I wish I could stay (despite what I've said) due to the perfect location on the lake and close to uptown and my work, but it's just not in my means.

    Review 6 out of 12

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