Diamond in the Rough
July 30, 2015 - Review from Apartments.com
This converted factory loft is located on the edge of Olde Kensington, and about 5 minutes from all that artsy Northern Liberties & Fishtown have to offer. Plus, you’re only about 15 minutes from Center City & the Art Museum.
While the immediate surrounding area looks “rough”, it’s actually quite mellow and friendly (as long as you don’t stray too far north-west). Indeed, there’s a certain “ghetto-charm” here that I like, especially in the Summer when you’ll see the weeds and local gardens ...
blooming out of bombed-out buildings.
I’ve never had any problems parking on the street. It’s filthy, yes, but, safe enough.
While the lobby and elevator are something out of George Romero’s “Dawn of the Dead”, the actual units are clean, with no roaches, rats, or mold. Both maintenance & the office staff have been very friendly & responsive.
I dig the hardwood floors, tall ceilings, new windows, and nice walls. No, the view isn't pretty, but, in July, you can see the gorgeous fire-works over Camden.
Warning! These unit are noisy! The floors creak. You’ll hear people arguing, TVs blaring, and dogs barking. (And, yes, sometimes, dog urine may leak through certain floors). But, most of the neighbors are actually nice - it’s just that the units aren’t sound insulated.
The prices are fair for what you get - about $1 per square foot… with most units being roughly 1,500 square feet, but with different configurations.
My utilities are about $200 a month - gas is $15 & electric is $80 in the Summer. Being on the top floor, I barely used the heat in the winter. (However, both the heat & AC are very loud.)
The kitchens are rather cheap and plain looking - but the appliances are adequate. The toilets on the upper floors are slow to flush - but, don’t worry, the water will go down.
Bottom Line: If you want a medium-sized loft near the Piazza that’s slightly rough around the edges, and don’t mind some noise, then this is your place!
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