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| - My son (who is a recent college graduate from the midwest) accepted a position with a company that relocated him to Gilbert, Arizona. We performed various in-depth searches and read reviews looking for the best apartment complex. It had been over 25 years since I lived in an apartment. We heard many horror stories of apartment living. To say we were cautious when looking for apartments would probably be an understatement. We were looking for something nice, safe, pest free, well maintained, decent location, etc. We talked to several apartment complex reps and Redstone kept coming up on top. I think I talked to every one of the office Redstone reps including the manager. I later talked to someone who moved to Tempe and said you can't go wrong choosing a Mark-Taylor complex.
The Staff
I read a review or two regarding bad experiences with some of the staff members. I have to say that every one of the staff members that we talked to have been very friendly, eager to assist, and patient. I say patient because, I kept calling various times asking many questions, never once were they rude or acted like they were tired of me calling (being a concerned mom). In fact, it was just the opposite, they encouraged that I contact them with any concerns or questions all with a cheerful / perky demeanor. It has been a couple months now since my son moved in, and the staff has not wavered with their nice, professional, eager to help attitude. Ashley, the two Jessica's and the manager Tamara were the ones I had the most contact with.
The maintenance staff are very friendly as well. Just walking in the complex, they speak to you, ask how you're doing and are smiling.
The COMPLEX
I can sum it up in one word -UNBELIEVABLE! The area is nicely maintained and the maintenance people work daily to keep it beautified. The amenities are great. There's the pool (that's heated in the winter), many TVs around the pool area, game room, fitness center, fire pit for those cool nights, music playing in the pool area, an upstairs common area that resembles a hotel with full kitchen, computers, pest control on site weekly, etc. so many amenities, I can go on and on, this is like a diamond in the rough. It reminds me of a resort or hotel.
The APARTMENT
When my son moved in, my husband and I helped him move so we were here for a week. The apartment is nice with 10 ft ceilings, recessed lighting, patio, full size washer and dryer, etc. there were a few things that needed attending to, but they weren't very visible unless one looked close. We informed the staff of the concerns, they immediately had maintenance fix most of the items. The other concerns were noted so that my son will not be responsible for them when he moves out. Which is fine, since they were no big deal, I just didn't want him being responsible for something that was already there before he moved in. It's quiet for an apartment complex that is pet friendly. Since he's been here, he's only heard the neighbors once and that was for about a couple hours on New Year's Eve. They had the music loud. This wasn't a big deal since it was the first time and it was a special occasion. Other than that one time, he said it's been quiet.
The SURROUNDING AREAS
The location is perfect. It is across the street from Santan Village and down the street from TopGolf which is a treat in itself. He's close to many shopping centers but not in a highly populated area where it's too crowded or too much traffic.
The COST
It is a little pricier, but for what you're getting, it's worth it. As some have mentioned, it does appear to be run similar to a hotel. Which is fine with him. They even change the lightbulbs in your apartment as part of the benefit. There are no surprise fees. You are informed at signing of all fees (even if you call and ask the staff If you're just inquiring).
There is a $30 valet trash fee as others have mentioned. He actually likes the valet service, being on the third floor and a little ways from the trash bins. It's nice to be able to sit the trash at the front door.
I do think it should be an optional charge, especially for those that are right next to the bin.
You also pay water, trash (this is in addition of the valet service), sewer and any additional amenity (i.e garage) that is due at the same time as your rent.
The CONCLUSION
I was going back and forth as to whether to rate a four or five star. Four because of some of the initial issues with the apartment. However, with the maintenance and staff trying to ensure we were satisfied, does count for a lot.
I loved everything so much so that I came back for my winter vacation and enjoyed the living and amenities at Redstone.
Since my son has been here a couple months, I asked him if there is another apartment complex that he would prefer more than Redstone. He says absolutely not, he loves it here!
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