Maybe you can tell me...about Scottsdale Meadows (San Carlos: apartment complex, leasing)

[lauryeht]

I've moved to Scottsdale from the East Coast and have been apartment hunting. Scottsdale Meadows apts seem to be somewhat different from a lot of cookie cutter Equity properties I've seen in my search and believe me, my search has been quite extensive. My questions and concerns?...
Once I sign on the dotted line what should I look out for? Is there a relaxed feel about the place? Is there give and take with management or are there strict rules and regs? Can one sit outside and walk around safely? I also want to know about the people who live there. Is it the kind of place where neighbors become friends? Is there a good mix of ages (very important)? As long as the mix includes older singles in their 40's & 50's then I'm happy. I'm looking to meet the man of my dreams!
The other apartment contenders are:
- The Highlands
- San Carlos
- San Marcos
My questions about Scottsdale Meadows apply also to the other 3 places.

Thank you for the info. It will help me make my decision.

PS: N-S sun exposure vs E-W. Is N-S the winner?

[observer53]

I would not count on meeting the "man of your dreams" in whatever apartment complex you live in. There are other more likely ways to go out and meet people you are compatible with than finding one walking through your apartment complex. But that's for a different topic in a different forum.

As far as your concerns, you might find someone here who lives there who can answer your questions, but you very well may not. You need to address your "concerns" before you sign on the dotted line, not once you do. You should be able to find out about any "strict rules and regs" from the leasing office. I'm not sure what you mean about a "relaxed feel" in an apartment complex. People live there, go to work, come home, in good weather may or may not be out by the pool in the evening, maybe more so on the weekends, and that's it. I've never sensed a "tense" atmosphere in any apartment complex I've visited. As far as neighbors becoming friends, that depends on the indvidual people involved, not the apartment complex, IMO.

N-S vs E-W doesn't matter so much if the larger windows are shaded by trees from the outside; not being on the top floor to me matters more.

[lauryeht]

Thanks for the info and advice. I finally made my choice (San Carlos in N.Scottsdale) and moved in a few weeks ago. Am quite happy so far. Enjoyed my 1st bbq dinner by the pool last night. Very relaxing.