The Flats at 4200

Terrible experience. My lease started on Aug 23, and management confirmed in writing that I could move in on Aug 24. When I arrived after a 24-hour flight, the office was closed and no one gave me keys. I was left stranded with nowhere to stay. Completely unprofessional and unreliable. Don’t recommend!

Before they even post their usual “We’re sorry to hear this” response, here is my opinion: they do that to make you think they care so you will sign the lease. Once you sign, in my experience, the kindness is gone. I feel they nickel and dime residents and count on the fact that most people here are students who will not speak up. I am speaking up. You have rights. Use them. I lived here for over 3 years, and during that time I experienced many recurring issues. Elevators were often out of order. Trash chutes were frequently closed, including during move in and move out, forcing residents to haul trash outside to dumpsters regardless of age, health, or mobility. If the trash chute is broken, in my opinion, it should be fixed. This is a multi-million dollar operation, and I believe they should take care of amenities, necessities, and most importantly, residents. Instead, I feel they ignore the issue and fine people. Going after $400 in this situation, in my view, shows extreme pettiness. I was required to move to another unit twice due to “construction” and then back again to my original apartment, with zero compensation. The construction noise, in my opinion, was unbearable. I have videos of drilling from the apartment above so loud it disrupted my mornings at 8am. After moving out, I was accused of leaving trash and charged $400 for eight bags. They said an item with my name was found in one bag and used that to charge me for all eight. I was shown a photo of the bags near the chute and the sticker with my name. They have not provided photographic or video evidence showing me placing any bags or proof that all eight were mine. Charging for all eight without proof, in my opinion, is COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE. They also told me they went through my trash, which I find unprofessional and just plain disgusting. And I promise you — this has nothing to do with money or $400. It is about being accused of something without proof. I will always stand up for myself. The trash chute was shut down at the time — something that has happened repeatedly over the past few months due to it being broken. In my view, the property does not take responsibility for fixing it. Instead, they leave residents to figure out alternatives. This forces people to carry trash all the way down to outdoor dumpsters and lift it overhead. Very convenient for management, and very inconvenient for the people who actually live here. Now, apartment-wise, it is pretty decent - pretty okay I'd say. Not bad. But that means nothing compared to all the other issues you might face here. In my opinion, it is simply not worth it. From my experience, they will not stand by you. I believe they care more about money than residents. God forbid you are injured or worse — in my opinion, they would not care. This is the worst property management I have dealt with, and I believe these practices should be illegal. Please Flats, do not give me that “I’m sorry” response. I do not care to hear it. In my opinion, you are only saying it because you are in front of people, exposed, and do not want to lose face. Ah, you know what — go ahead and respond with your “I’m sorry you feel this way” reply if you’d like. If doing that makes you feel better at night, go for it. And sure, sure — I “know” you take all reviews seriously and so on. Guys, you are smarter than this. Do not fall for it. Flats, Bet Investments, and team — one thing I will say, I am surprised you have lasted this long. In my opinion, this should be illegal.

I’ve had a great experience here with maintenance staff. They’re very kind and always do as much as they can until issues are resolved. Special shoutout to Ray, who recently had a task to get the a/c in my unit unclogged from some sort of buildup. I submitted a request in the evening and he was there early the next day. He took his time to clear the clogged line thoroughly and even cleaned the entire area before leaving. Professional, efficient, and respectful. I truly appreciated the care he put into the job. Excellent service!

I’ve been a resident here for 2.5 years. Never really had a problem with anything, the staff is usually friendly and helpful. The apartment itself is reasonable for the price. But, if you consider living here, read the lease very carefully. There was a vacant room in my female unit, and I was just informed by the office that a male would be moving in. I understand you can’t hold it against them because of discrimination policies, but this was a very unexpected move. It really is a business at the end of the day. Keep that in mind as you sign your lease.

To be candid, my review may or may not be useful anymore, but I've wanted to brag about this apartment complex ever since I've lived here. I moved in to The Flats for my very first year of college (August 2016-July 2017). I didn't know it then, but it would be the best living experience I would have while at USF. The place was always spotless, I felt safe while I was here, and the apartments (while by no means luxury) were comfortable with nice fixtures, appliances, and furniture. When I moved out, intended to find somewhere cheaper not realizing what I would be sacrificing. The Flats, when I lived there, were WORTH the price tag. They, at the time, were the best student apartments in town.