Lakeside Village

I’ve been renting with Ardent Communities since I was 20—I’m now 28—and I’ve never had such an exhausting, unhappy, and unfair experience as I have at Lakeside Village.

Emails are ignored unless it involves a new fee or fine—then suddenly there’s action. I was recently charged $400 for power washing, something that falls under community upkeep and curb appeal. As a property manager myself, I know that’s not something to bill tenants. Then, a $50 fine was added over what they claimed was dog… waste, but was actually trash leakage from a bag I briefly placed outside (under 5 minutes) to avoid it leaking indoors. Right across from me, trash sat for days with no action until I pointed it out—only then did they fine those residents. I was upfront about mine, even called them, and was still penalized while others are ignored. I can gather evidence to show I’m being treated unfairly or even retaliated against.

I’ve paid some charges already and sent proof multiple times. I’ve asked for a full ledger since move-in because I no longer trust what’s posted. I’ve been told charges were cleared, only for them to pop back up later. There’s no consistency or transparency.

I feel singled out. Other residents with clear exterior damage aren’t being fined like I am. It feels personal. I've talked to neighbors who feel the same. This entire process makes me regret signing this lease. I have photos, videos, and a full paper trail. I’m not writing out of anger—I’ve tried to do everything right, but I keep getting met with silence and more charges.

At this point, I just want to finish my lease peacefully, keep my kids safe, and move into my new home in a few months. These random charges are hurting my ability to care for them. If I hit the lottery (and I don’t even play), I’d break the lease that same day. That’s how done I am. No family should go broke just to keep a roof over their heads in a place that doesn’t respect them.

The worst part? They only act when it’s about money—not when a resident needs help. As a mother, it’s disheartening. To anyone thinking of moving here: I wouldn’t wish this stress on anyone. Read More