After checking out the Norwood, my friends at Urban Investment Properties Property Management (UIPPM) invited me to take a look at some of their places. I am particularity interested in 1841 Columbia Road and Meridian Hill. I scheduled an appointment to see two apartments during my lunch break, hoping to see both places. I had a rough morning (late start, forgot my phone at home, and a busy morning in the office) and wasn’t in the best mood when my 12:30 appointment arrived. Lucky for me, the day turned around quickly. The leasing agent was prompt, friendly, and extremely knowledgeable. Before I talk about my visit, it is important to know UIPPM’s business model. UIPPM takes old, run down apartment buildings in awesome locations and completely renovates them. Some of the before and after pictures are incredible. If high end finishes and great location are important to you, UIPPM apartments could be a good match.
I was especially excited to see Meridian Hill because it is a property that I feature on EBDC. It isn’t in my exact desired location but the price was right at $1699 a month. I checked out a one bedroom on the second floor. I think it was just under 500 square feet. The pictures I took don’t really do the place justice (I had to use my iPad because my phone was MIA). Luckily, the pictures on Craigslist are pretty true to form.
What makes it great: Renovations really do make a big difference. The updates in the kitchen and bathroom are really nice. The unit I looked at had an open kitchen, no island to separate it from the living space. I actually preferred this layout because you could easily add a butchers block or something to create an island. Though the bedroom wasn’t huge, I liked that it was separate from the living space. It was strange how dividing the space into two rooms made the apartment feel bigger rather than smaller. There were three closets which I thought was impressive for the space. One was barely walk-in, the others were for coats and linens. Finally, Ontario Road is quieter and a bit more neighborhood-y.
Before Pictures
Why I might think twice: Parquet flooring. I was surprised to see this style. I will admit that it is in great shape and it is nice to have some original charm, but I didn’t like the contrast with all of the renovations. The views aren’t great. Like the pictures, all the windows look out to a neighboring brick wall.
Overall I thought the place was cozy and a great space for the price. I have to say that the leasing agent really went the extra mile. He drove me to my current apartment to pick up my phone! They definitely gave me the royal treatment. Thank you UIPPM!
As I mentioned, I also took a look at 1841 Columbia Road. My thoughts on that building coming soon!
