The Verandah

shadow1949

Resident • 2004 - 2007

Great Place to live- But Management is EVERYTHNING

I lived at the Verandah from Sept, 2004 until April 2006. When I first moved there it had a good management and all was fine. When repair work was done, they even called the next day to gauge my satisfaction. Then a new property manager was hired and he was horrible. Good news is this horrible property manager is gone and his replacement was fastastic (I hope he is still there). The new manager improved the property, had the entry gates fixed so they worked and was very reseptive to comments and observations. I enjoyed living there with the new property manager (I wish I could remember his name). As important, I had to move to Tucson, so when I moved out they were just as porfessional. I had stained the carpeting and the property manager was "No charge" as he wanted to replace it anyways. I loved the split two bedroom/two bath and I had the attached two car garage. And YES I WOULD LIVE THERE AGAIN!!!

Current Resident 336231

Resident • 2007 - 2008

We enjoyed these apartments!

My girlfriend and I have lived in the Verandah for a little over a year, and have not once had a problem. The office staff is WONDERFUL; you never have to worry about an issue coming up and them not taking care of it in a timely manner. The maintenance staff is VERY friendly, the first day of moving in there was a few things that needed to be fixed. I saw one of the men going into another apartment and I asked him if he could come fix a couple small things, without question he told me after he finished with what he was doing he would be right there, and he did. I really liked that if I had a problem I would call and some times would get the manager Brent answering phones. There are a couple of things that I didn t like about the apartment. One is the floors are kind of thin and you can hear a lot of what the person above you does. And parking is kind of a problem after dark. Other than that the apartment is GREAT and the office staff is awesome.

Current Resident 470723

Resident • 2007

A very nice complex to live in. Never had any problems. Landscaping is gorgeous. Beautiful pool, parks, and dog parks.

verandahrenterang

Resident • 2006 - 2007

The Verandah Living

The Verandah has been the most excellent apartment living experience I have ever had. The management has been polite, professional and helpful in all areas. They have been available during ice storms, lost packages, move in dates and maintenance issues. I've lived noise free in an environment with other professional people who enjoy peaceful living. The landscaping is always in excellent condition. My apartment has the look and feel of a real home and my son feels comfortable there - even special. This is an excellent choice for an apartment home.

Current Resident 152149

Resident • 2001 - 2005

It was once nice, but is now a dump!

My wife and I moved in when the Verandah was brand new, and it was a paradise! But, it was sold to new owners, and the new management is extremely poor and unprofessional. A vent on the side of my building was broken, and wasps built a nest in it, and it literally took 4 weeks (of me hounding them) for them to get to it, and finally, instead of killing the wasps and replacing the vent cover with a new one, they sprayed expanding foam insulation into it and it dripped all down the side of the building. It looked totally disgusting. The breezways are filthy, with black mold, water spots, and peeling paint everywhere. The once incredible acapulco style pool is now filthy. Nothing is kept up. Parking is not enforced. They used to be selective, but now they rent to anyone, and loud parties and loud noise on the weekends (and even during some week nights) is now the norm. People park anywhere (including handicap spots) and parking rules are no longer enforced. This place went downhill very fast, and I now consider it a real dump!

Current Resident 590268

Resident • 2004 - 2005

surprised the ratings aren't higher

i lived at this complex about 2 years ago with a roommate. we absolutely loved it. when we first moved in, i found a baby scorpion, but none after that. (btw...it was sand colored and i would not have seen it if the cat wasn't playing with it...so, look where you step if you live there.) the layout was ideal, the location was great, the staff and maintenance were on the ball, and i always felt safe. i worked evenings and was never afraid to walk to my apartment from my car. it was generally quiet. again, i worked evenings so i would sleep in in the mornings when everyone else would leave for work. my room was next to the breezeway, so i would hear people going up and down the stairs. the only other negative i have about living at verandah was the parking. people with suvs and trucks would "park" in the compact spaces. i own a compact car, so that was annoying. still, the furthest i ever had to walk was *maybe* 30 yards. overall, i loved living there. my roommate and i went by there a few months ago and were talking about how much we enjoyed living there.

Current Resident 677653

Resident • 2006

New to property, not nearly as impressed...

When my husband and I started discussing moving to Austin we checked out several apartment communities. For the price, we felt like this place had the best deal as far as sq. footage and amenities. We have been here a whole month and there are some things that are very hard to adjust to 1) parking is virtually non-existant, it looks ample but there are so many residents that if it is after 7pm...plan on hiking to your apartment. 2) NOTHING gets fixed, in less than a month our garbage disposal has broken twice, they never came to fix the sinks, the light fixtures, or inspect anything we listed on our move in inspection sheet--despite multiple requests. 3) We were here a week and ants took over (we are not on a ground floor)--they ended up spraying our apartment 3x in 2 wks b/c they didn't know where they were coming from. 4) Leasing agent lied to us upfront about average utility costs and average childcare costs for the Austin area..yes that burden lies mostly on me for not thoroughly researching what I was told, but I didn't intend on being completely misguided either. On the plus side--it is very beautifully maintained (landscaping), the pools are maintained decently (kids break a lot of the lawn chairs it seems); and they do seem to try to have resident appreciation days and activities at the club house pretty frequently. I have not been in an apartment for a while, so these may all be minor things that everyone deals with. I won't say for a minute that I hate the community...I am just thinking for the price that we pay--I would like to feel like I am getting my money's worth. Also, what's up with someone being dead in the parking lot?? No one mentioned that to us?!?!?

Current Resident 683884

Resident • 2004 - 2006

I lived here for 2 years. For the most part, I enjoyed my time. Obviously, there were a few problems, but whenever I brought them up to the management staff, they were handled quickly and efficiently. I have to disagree with the idea that the manager is just out for money. Everyone in the office was friendly and helpful. That is different from most other landlords I've dealt with, most of whom try to intimidate you. I appreciate the Verandah management and staff. I recieved a large part of my deposit back. As for some of the problems mentioned in other posts: Parking is a mild issue. There are usually a few spaces, at least where I lived, but it was pretty irritating to see people parking in handicap spaces. There were also several people who frequently took up two spaces. When more people moved in and it became hard to park, management put out a memo informing us that tow trucks would be patrolling the lot, and people started parking more responsibly for a while. I've also noticed complaints about bugs. I rarely found bugs in my apartment. I don't think I ever saw a roach. I saw several small spiders and only one scorpion. The apartments aren't very old, 5 or 6 years I believe, and are built right next to a nature preserve. I don't believe there is much else to be done about the insects and archanids. The buildings are just too new. Everything else was great about the community. It was always kept very clean. Landscapers were out almost daily. The pool was beautiful, although it should be monitored more on weekends and holidays. The amenities were wonderful. The price was very reasonable as well. I enjoyed my time and recommend the apartments.

Current Resident 580621

Resident • 2004 - 2006

I also can't wait to leave

This property was once so wonderful. It makes me sad to know that in the last year we have had a dead person in the parking lot..that was pushed or fell down 4 flights. Then the staff would not even inform the tenants of if life here is safe or not. Now they have moved a ton of people in that do not follow the rules, there is mold in the breeze ways, ants and spiders in the pools, the walk ways are never refreshed and look terrible. I am very ashamed of where I live now and for the money..there is a lot better out there. What happened to the MANAGEMENT TEAM?? They do not monitor the handi parking and people park where they want...and no one here says a thing.Isn't that against the law or something??

Current Resident 634375

Resident • 2005 - 2006

Not too bad, not the best!

The apartments are nice inside, pricy, but nice. The pool, clubhouse, and gym are nice when they are open. Most here are young professionals and young families. There are a few loud and unsightly people here, but that comes with the city. There are no serious problems, just some things that are not terrific. There are tons of huge dogs here (1/person) that are quite loud, of course they are not picked up after. There are many boats, trailers, etc.. in parking areas. Crime is not a problem. The biggest problem is that management is very poor, except for a few people in the office (like Lisa). The manager does not care about people at all, just stealing your money every chance. The grounds and amenities aren't kept up near as good with the new manager, but it is decent. Overall it is an ok place to live.

em1980

Resident • 2005 - 2006

Beautiful community, friendly staff

I have read some of the negative reviews on this community, and you have to keep in mind that some people are not going to be satisfied no matter what. I work in apt. management for another company, so I know what good management is supposed to be and these people have it. The office is always friendly and handled an issue that I had with a noisy neighbor very effectively,the maintenance staff is on top of things, and the grounds are very well kept. The apartments are gorgeous, as well as the views. This is by far the best community that I have ever lived in!

Current Resident 191166

Resident • 2001 - 2006

Lived here for 4 years...Gone from Great to Can't Wait

After living here since late 2001, it has gone from fabulous to can't wait to leave. The previous management and staff were always on top of things. The gates were always closed...now never! The property rules were enforced. Now are there rules? Complaints of noise and vandalism are diregarded and the landscaping has gone from beautiful to weeds and mold in the beds. I am counting the days until my lease end and what a shame. Lately have had vandalism and things stolen from patio. The property WAS once great!

daniel_s_wharton

Resident • 2006

staff comment only

I will be moving there on August 1st, and I will write another view after that. I wanted to post a comment on the customer service levels from the staff. My name is Dan, and I am not an employee, look me up after 8/1/06 in apt. 2332 if need be.<br><br>The staff has been phenomonal. I live in Massachusetts right now, and I had the daunting task of trying to find a home that was nearly 2000 miles away. Comparitively speaking, the price is right...and the customer service is great. Lisa S. has bent over backwards to make sure that all of my questions were answered, and all of my concerns were addressed. the application process was fairly simple (there were a couple of technical snafoos we had to deal with, but...) The process was not nearly as painful as I am used to (typical of Mass. residents) <br><br>I am looking forward to getting down there soon, thanks to Lisa and the rest of the staff. I feel as though we were well taken care of, and that is very important to me. If you are relocating out of state and have children, you may want to put this property in the top of your list. The location is great, the schools are great, and the facility is more than adequately equipped.<br><br>Note: The score is in the middle due to the fact I have not been to the property, as mentioned earlier.

biggie3

Resident • 2005 - 2006

Beautiful property...

My husband and I lived there for 1 year and we loved it, it is a beautiful property with many amenities, also the apartments are very well kept. <br>It has some minor problems such as parking but it not a problem at all since you have plenty of space. Noise you will have anywhere... and I think that is not too noisy since it is a big property. <br>The staff has always being nice with us, we have no complains about them. Also the maintenance are promptly and good.<br>It is a little bit pricy, but it worths.<br>I would recommend this place.<br>It is the best apartment I have ever lived in US.

annabelleian

Resident • 2005 - 2006

Great Management/Price

I moved out of Verandah in January to get closer into town. The apartments I moved into have been nothing but an expensive pain in the rear hassle. The management is subdivided because there are so many complexes, and the management in my complex area is incompetant and rude!! Compared to the staff at Verandah, these guys are horrible. It made me realize how awesome and friendly and helpful the staff at Verandah is and I thought I should post something. I did have a big issue with scorpions on my first floor apartment there which backed right up to the nature reserve (bldg. 15). But that's what you get for living that close to the reserve. I have friends that live there and haven't had ANY problems with bugs at all, so it might have just been that one apt. The places are really nice especially for the price. You just can't get something that nice and big for that price anywhere else. Thanks Verandah staff for being so great!

Current Resident 485166

Resident • 2005 - 2006

Beware of Scorpions and Bugs!

If you decide to live near the preserve good luck with the scorpions and insects. We had to call the pest control several times. I decided to apply liquid poison myself throughout the spring and summer seasons. I got tired of checking the walls, tubs, and ceilings. I figured out that these critters came out of the air vents. If you have crawling babies, like I did, look elsewhere to rent.

Current Resident 791973

Resident • 2002 - 2005

Veranda Shmerandah

When I first moved in the place was great. The management was very helpful and really worked to solve problems. The new management has been adequate but it took several calls to their managers (BH) to get mindshare.

Current Resident 189703

Resident • 2005

This Place Used To Be Good....

I worked here a long time ago. I absolutely loved it. I've been meaning to write this for a good while. I should have done it then, but I hope my credibility won't hinder what you read. I wrote a few opinions about the Verandah in the past. They were always great, I truly believed in this community. I have to say that when the community was sold and new management came in - this place completely changed. <br>I was forced out of my job here because the manager had an issue with myself. He treatened the leasing consultants by saying once that if we "kept asking him questions, he would blow up on us". I let him know that I took that as a direct threat and I was fired no less than 2 weeks later. <br> When I moved out, they made no effort to contact me to let me know I had charges for a carpet. I admit, I had a pet who decided to go on the carpet. I worked long hours and sometimes I couldn't make it home. The pad was needing replacement. I wouldn't have ignored my responsibilities if I had known they would go through with charging me. I had found out that they sent it to collections and I had a huge hit on my credit report. <br>So, my thanks after a year and a half , was a big $500 charge on my credit. I've since paid it. Just an FYI, if this company reports you to the credit bureau, they will never remove the charge, even if paid in full. <br> Everyone in that office could not stand this guy. We all tried at some point to complain to upper management but they never cared to listen. It sounds like a lot of anger coming from my side. I have to say there is. If you have read what I have said in the past to what I say now, you may understand. <br> The people who were there then, were like a family. The residents who liked the Verandah, felt like this place was truly a home - for an apartment complex. I doubt that the personality, feel and experience are anything like what they used to be. When I was there, it was privately owned. Now, its big corporate management looking at the bottom line. At least when I was there, we could listen and make some sort of effort to help you if it was legitimite. <br> I feel bad for the people who have to work under this guy. I'm sure they know what kind of person he really is. Don't get me wrong. The floor plans are great, its a beautiful place. Just don't be like me, lose your job and get screwed on your credit. I know he did that on purpose too. They knew where I was and how to get in touch. They choose not to, because why should they? The guy hated my guts. He wouldn't even let the people that still worked there talk to me if I called. This man would yell and curse at the leasing consultants, to the point they would cry. Would you want someone like that managing where you live? I know I wouldn't. Business is business, but do you want someone who is only out for money, who is fake to your face and disrespects his people like they are lower than dirt? I would rather rent a house than have to deal what that garbage. It's really a shame that people can't enjoy the community that they once knew. Where they could come in to the office and hang out, talk and we actually knew who they were. We really cared about the people who took the time to care about us. I know for a fact that the residents that are still there are only there because they don't want to deal with moving. They will tell you that it isn't the same. They don't go to the office, also that the manager is not nice(and I'm putting it as nicely as I can write it). Good luck to those of you in your search. If you choose to rent here anyways, just be prepaired. You may ask them about this opinion, I'm sure they'll come up with some way to overcome your objection. Just remember, this is a true story from someone who lived there for two and a half years, and worked there for a year and a half. Good luck :)

Current Resident 443469

Resident • 2002 - 2005

A shame!!

It is so sad to see what has happened to the Verandah in the last year. Since the new management has changed and BH had taken over, the entire community has gone down hill. It was once such a beautiful place to live. Now the property looks like trash. The breezeways are filthy and residents leave all sorts of items out to be seen by others. Junk like toys, bikes, furniture and trash are left all over the place. It is embarrassing to invite company over! On many occasions the dumpsters have been overflowing with trash. The Verandah was once a quite place to live, now you are awaken by parties and arguing drunken neighbors. The quality of residents has drastically declined. This has been the biggest and most noticeable change. Since they have lowered their leasing standards, I see all sorts of loud riffraff polluting the area. I fear for the safety of myself and my children. In fact, there have been a handful of thefts recently where there were none before. Going to the pool now is a joke. Its sad that I have to shield my child from the verbal obscenities shouted from the mouths of these residents. I will be so happy to leave the Verandah because it is becoming a C-D class property...quickly! I would only recommend this property if you are a college student who likes loud parties, have a desire to steal from your neighbors or like to live in a property that looks like a trailer park. <br>As for the office staff they are very friendly with the exception of the manager who is lazy and never returns any phone calls and relies on his office staff to run the office. There has been many times where I have waited to speak with him while he takes his 3 lunch hour breaks!!<br>It makes me so sad to see what has happened to the Verandah. They need to get a manager in there that gives a %$#& about the property!!!!<br>

texasfriend

Resident • 2005

Living here again!

I keep coming back to Verandah. This is the second apartment I've had at Verandah and I love it. It's an apartment community so ofcourse there will be noise but it's not excessive and the office handles everything so well. They are very friendly and helpful. I've dealt mainly with the assistant manager and she's been very gracious and nice. The views are awesome and the apartments are beautiful. I highly recommend Verandah.

Current Resident 752601

Resident • 2004 - 2005

"it's a shame" comment ridiculous

That comment called "it's a shame" is ridiculous. The apartments are stil just as beautiful as they were before they were bh. And they are never ever noisy!! In fact, I'm often scared to walk my dog after 9pm because there isn't a soul in sight. I've never heard any loud parties going on at all. The verandah is actually a very nice place to live, unless you are unlucky like me and have a scorpion infestation! (Dont live on the side facing the nature preserve, especially if you are on 1st floor!) I wish I would have leased something on the parking lot side because i have had terrible bug problems. Other than that though, the apartments and staff are great!

cg37

Resident • 2003 - 2005

Management Stinks!

We rented this apartment under the old management, and our lease said that when it was up, we could go month-to-month at the same price. New management said we couldn't (even though it was in our lease) and made us sign a 6 month lease. But typed up a 12 month lease, which we unknowingly signed and can't get out of. When we explained our situation (we're getting married, both getting new jobs, thought we signed a 6 month lease, etc) they didn't budge, and didn't even offer a "sorry". The apartments seem nice, but the walls do show everything, the kitchen flooring will come up, the utilities will be shut off for the whole complex periodically, the location is too far out, the walls are thin, etc. Overall, they look nice, but I wouldn't live here, and am mad I have to stay here another 7 months!!!

Trueblue04

Resident • 2001 - 2005

It's no longer a paradise !!!

I signed a lease when the complex first opened. The property was only half finished. The apt. I rented in October was ready in Dec. I moved in sometime in January and should of know that a building that was built in two months was going to have all kinds of problems. Building 13! The walls are constantly cracking, sheet rock falls off the wall and you see a rusty nail head. The hall breeze ways have sheet rock falling and mold spots. The first staff was pretty nice but the new BH management are JERKS! They have become parking ----'S !!! The lease terms seem to vary from person to person. You can't have anything but your car in your garage. I set up a table to paint and was told to take it down. Even though I have plenty of space to park in front of my garage. I've walked through the community and see garages packed to the brim with junk. The property was nice when it first opened but has quickly went downhill. I'm just waiting for December when my lease expires. Which is something I'm not looking forward to.

cbates

Resident • 2004 - 2005

I love this place

I have had a wonderful experience living here. The management company that took over the property has been nothing but nice to me. The floorplans here are huge and I love my aparmtment. I have experience in the business of property management ( no I do not work at Verandah) and trust me it is not always an easy job. Most of the people that write these reviews are the angry people that it was not possible to please so give this place a chance. You won't regret it. The apartments, amenities, pool, and staff are all great. If you are looking to live out on 620 look no further. Lease at the Verandah.

Current Resident 171750

Resident • 2005

It's been great!

I just moved in in January and I love it! The new staff is very friendly. I have ablsolutely no complaints! I'm very happy here.