Today was my first stop in the apartment search. My appointment wasn’t until 8 AM but I was up at 6 AM, too excited to sleep. As I mentioned before, The Norwood has been on my radar for a while. It’s a beautiful older building in my ideal location. It is managed by WC Smith, one of the best management companies in town. In addition to my craigslist perusing, I usually check out the WC Smith site to see if there are any listings that didn’t make it on to craigslist. I was thrilled to see that the Norwood had a studio available. This is not your everyday studio. Apartment 501 is a corner unit with approximately 635 square feet of living space. Here is my breakdown of pros, cons, and a few snapshots.
What makes it great: This studio is the biggest studio I have ever seen- literally. I check out studios often and have yet to find one that tops this one. It is a corner unit on the fifth floor so the views are stunning and there is only one shared wall (in the kitchen). The appliances have been updated (stainless steel). There are TWO walk-in closets. It would be a very tight squeeze but one could almost function as a small work space. All utilities are included (central air) and there is an awesome rooftop deck. There is a doorman and maintenance person on site. There are hardwood floors throughout and very high ceilings. The entire staff there is wonderful. The leasing agent is friendly, knowledgeable, and extremely accommodating.
Why I may think twice: No dishwasher or in-unit washer and dryer. For a corner unit, I expected more windows. The bathroom is a bit dated. The tile is a sea foam/mint color which I think is charming but might not appeal to everyone. The leasing agent offered to change it if needed. I personally love the tiled floor and vintage hamper. The biggest problem is the move in date. The apartment will be ready in just a few weeks. My move out date isn’t unit mid-May. I am breaking one of my cardinal rules. I’m worried that I have fallen in love with a place that I can’t have. I am going to try and negotiate a mid-April move in. That means I would be playing double rent for a month. Yikes. This place could be worth the financial hit. I can’t imagine finding a larger studio.
