If you are thinking about moving in here... document EVERYTHING.
My apartment was not painted prior to moving in - I noted on my move-in form that there were missing chunks of paint on my walls and took video that wall patches were bare without paint covering them. And still, when I moved out they told me it was my problem and charged me for the cost of paint.
Also to note, The Blackstone chooses to disregard the "normal wear and tear" conditions outlined by the Department of Consumer Affairs which indicate residents cannot be charged for paint if residing there for over two years. I lived there for 2 years and 1 month and The Blackstone charged me for paint costs.
Despite the multiple markings of "clean" on the check-out form I was also charged when I moved out for cleaning. I am currently awaiting a response from them about the discrepancy between the notes their managers made on the move-out form and the charges deducted from my deposit.
If you own pets, make sure to note on the lease that the "carpet deodorizing fee" be removed as there is zero carpeting in the units.
Be aware to document while you live there as well. Within the first two weeks of me living there, I discovered a cricket infestation - which was blamed on me because of having cats (when, in reality, the front desk area and courtyard are full of them). The walls in my apartment cracked worse and worse over two years as the building settled. I filled out all of the proper paperwork to get 3 free months of parking, then was charged for not only the 3 months but also late fees... which I then had to fight tooth and nail to get reversed. You will hear different stories from every single person you talk to. I had two check-out walk throughs and during the first, the manager said, "Oh, you have one of the old refrigerators - it's the only one left in the building." And the following day the leasing agent said to me, "Oh, you have one of the NEW refrigerators - how lucky of you!" Get everything in writing - trust no one.
I was also verbally shamed by my leasing agent one afternoon as I was walking into the lobby. Someone walking by on the street stopped at the open door to whistle and hit on me. The leasing agent looked down at my yoga pants and commented, "It's your fault. Maybe you shouldn't wear those." She's not welcoming and completely changed her attitude towards me the second my lease was signed.
Two positive notes (one star for each!): 1.the new building manager is fantastic. Literally the best thing about living at the Blackstone. The problem is - they're trying to compete with the new, luxury buildings in the area and they're falling miserably short of the task. The lobby is now looking super fantastic, but the maintenance requests for the building barely get addressed (it took over a year for my vanity in the bathroom to be fixed). They are having mixers for the residents, but can't keep things in the building repaired (such as the garage door which is perpetually broken and open - one day it even scratched the roof of my car because it fell as I was driving through). The gym is a joke. the units are beautiful. My unit was aesthetically a dream. High ceilings, natural light, beautiful floors, spacious closets, lovely kitchen sink, bluetooth speakers in the ceilings, etc.
I loved my apartment. I hated dealing with the staff and their lack of professionalism, which unfortunately colored a really amazing home in a bad light.
Even though the Blackstone is falling short of the luxury apartments around them.... now they're raising rents like crazy because of the rising costs around them. My advice? Rent from one of the new units - you'll have more amenities, better service and a more...
Read moreI've had a fantastic experience living at The Blackstone DTLA. The historic charm of the building paired with modern amenities makes it a truly unique place to call home. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of downtown LA, surrounded by amazing restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.
The leasing process was seamless thanks to Mercy from the leasing team. She helped me set up an appointment and guided me through the entire process, making it easy and stress-free. The management team Felicity and Jamie overall is attentive and responsive, always quick to address any issues or concerns. The building is well-maintained, and the communal areas are always clean and inviting. I also appreciate the sense of security and the friendly vibe throughout the complex.
My apartment is spacious with high ceilings and large windows, letting in plenty of natural light. I love the blend of the building’s historic features with the modern finishes in the units. Overall, living here has been an excellent choice, and I highly recommend The Blackstone DTLA to anyone looking for a place in...
Read moreKerri and Tyler have been so courteous and friendly since the day I moved it-which was 6 years ago. If I ever have any issues, I know I can contact either of them and/or the head of maintenance. There are multiple cameras in the underground parking garage, around the building and overnight security, I always feel safe. The mixers and events that they have thrown in the lobby throughout the years have been really fun and it's been really nice to get to know my neighbors, it's a great community. Im a huge fan of the gym on the 5th floor that's open 24/7. It's a great location on 9th and Broadway, walking distance to so many bars, restaurants and shops. I always enjoy chatting with Kerri, Tyler and Tony when they are in the lobby, finding out what's new in the...
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