Gateway Park Apartments

While I didn't have a bad time living here there are a lot of caveats to consider. The first is the living space, which can be anywhere from 250-375 sqft, so it will be small no matter how you slice it. Not recommended for those who get claustrophobic. The lease may look somewhat expensive but they actually have it in the contract that they will take off $50 rent as long as you pay on time (Thank you auto payments).

The rent covers everything, heating/cooling, water, internet, electricity, etc... . so it's actually pretty reasonable. The internet is WiFi only, and its shared across the building, so for purposes other than simply browsing the internet you are better off getting your own service(rent won't be reduced because of this). The appliances are very old, but they still work. Parking can be tricky, as even though you get a parking sticker, people who use neighboring facilities (the chiropractor, CrossFit), are also allowed to park there for a limited time. The walls are pretty thin and you can hear the neighbors as they engage in muffled conversation among other things. The laundry facilities were recently upgraded with machines that allow you to pay from an app.

The real big thing to consider will be when summer comes around bringing Canal Fest with it. The food stands will be right outside of the building, so you won't be able to drive out that way for a week, and for the last two days your car will basically be trapped in the parking lot (because of the flea market that takes place on the weekend) so arrange for a different spot outside. The noise is heavily dampened in the back, but I imagine people who live towards the front will have a bit of noise to deal with. Then there are the weekly concerts, they can get very loud.

All in all, it isn't a bad place to live if you are thinking of going it alone, but there are a few headaches to deal with, as all apartments have. But ultimately I had an alright time living here. Read More