We really enjoyed living here. If you're looking to live here, you know that it seems like a nice place to live - and it is.
The thing that was frustrating to us were all of the hidden fees. Before signing, we were well aware of the required media package (that we didn't want - we never even bothered to plug in our TV).
However, we were not aware that we would, for example, be billed a line item on our utilities for Real Estate Tax. Yes, this is completely legal but we felt it was disingenuous to not make this apparent up front.
We were also frustrated that upon move-out, we were charged multiple fees that consumed our entire deposit and required additional payment. Cleaning fees such as carpet shampooing seem fair, but despite trying our best to be respectful of the unit, we were still charged a large fee to repaint the entire apartment. I'm certain that no one would say that a complete repaint is necessary. Some touchups, sure, but a complete repaint is totally unnecessary.
Overall, we enjoyed living here, but felt that the already high price was surprisingly moved even higher with this nickel-and-diming.
I do recommend living here, but keep in mind that you will likely end up paying more than you are quoted. It's up to you if it's worth the higher price.
To the staff: Thank you for your effort in taking care of the residents. Greater transparency needs to be given up-front regarding actual monthly fees (such as the Real Estate Tax) as well as the deposit that will inevitably be wholly consumed upon move-out.
UPDATE:
Since moving out, we were erroneously charged $149. I reached out to the DV staff and they refunded the fee. This is concerning as the only reason I caught it is because I was watching our credit card statement.
Then, a month later, we were AGAIN erroneously charged $149. The DV staff apparently did not rectify the issue in their system. This lack of attention to detail which results in actual real monetary losses to its residents is, as you can imagine, frustrating.
Rich Christiansen
April 05, 2022
