Submitted by Saucy-Boi t3_10azd09 in ColumbiaMD

Hello I’ve heard Columbia is a really nice area and I’ll be moving to Maryland soon. I have a budget of 1900 for a 1bed 1bath but if I could find a place with a den that’d be even better as I would mostly be working from home.

Looking online I think some complexes are padding reviews and don’t give a great idea if what its really like to live there so I would appreciate any insight from locals.

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Anonymanx t1_j47b3v2 wrote

I used to live at Orchard Park in western Ellicott City, and it was a good place. It’s a little off of the beaten path, but still convenient enough. The apartments are large, many (mostly phases I & II) with a den, and have in-unit laundry. It’s been a while, but management was okay and maintenance was good. I had no issues with getting my deposit back when I moved out.

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Zinnathana t1_j49lvfx wrote

I used to live in Avalon Fairway Hills. The apartments are older but kept in good condition (in my experience). The 1BRs with a den would be at the top of your budget, but I had no major complaints when living there. I think because the apartments were older, I hardly ever heard my neighbors. It's pretty close to downtown Columbia and right next to a highway exit, so pretty convenient location.

Anti-recommendation: Definitely don't go to Paragon Columbia (the apartments immediately next to Costco). They're way overpriced and my experience there was pretty miserable.

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ligsj t1_j49q8yw wrote

Second Avalon Fairway Hills. Apartments are older so don’t expect latest and greatest, but a great neighborhood. Close to highway and golf course. Never had any issues with cars being broken into. Generally, Columbia Road is pretty safe.

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mynamesafad t1_j47sqdz wrote

What kind of vibe are you looking for? Downtown area is really nice with lots of restaurants and an outdoor concert venue all in walking distance. There are also areas that are going to be a bit more away from everything, may be quieter and more family oriented.

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Saucy-Boi OP t1_j47tpvq wrote

Downtown sounds more interesting to live in and I have no problem with noise pollution. My worry about living downtown is safety as it seems some people have said they have had trouble with car break ins living close and in the town center.

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mynamesafad t1_j47tyub wrote

Most of the apartments near the downtown area have secured garages, so break ins shouldnt be much of an issue. Also - I have lived in the downtown area for a while now and have never felt unsafe. I like the walkability of it and easy access to restaurants

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Saucy-Boi OP t1_j47u4sf wrote

Are there any complexes downtown you would recommend or avoid?

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mynamesafad t1_j47x0ff wrote

Marlow is brand new opening this year, and Juniper is across the street from it. Both of those are nice apartments that have luxury amenities. With Marlow being brand new, you may be able to get some move in deals. TenM and The Met are also nice and been around for a bit

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Professional_Angle t1_j5p50s9 wrote

Unfortunately, this doesn't matter - TenM and Metropolitan secure garages have had major break in issues and Junipers garage is left unsecured often due to door repairs and such.

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CheeCheePuff t1_j48mme7 wrote

I had a broken bike that I wanted to get rid of but didn’t feel like dealing with sitting on my front porch not locked up. It took a year to finally get stolen 😆. Probably just some neighborhood kids.

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HumanBeingMan6969 t1_j47ukp2 wrote

The occasional car break in sure, but no more than anywhere else. I wouldn't be concerned with safety in that area though. Columbia in general is a very safe place to live. There are a few questionable spots, again no more than any other "safe" neighborhood, but even in those areas just don't be an idiot and pay attention to your surroundings and there should be no issue.

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ovowave t1_j49jfef wrote

Eagle Rock Columbia. I think all their 1 bd 1 bath apartments have a den. Price is probably within your range as well.

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intothexsjados t1_j49g7s1 wrote

Check out the arundel, the residences, or palisades in Hanover. Not too far away, around your price range, and very nice from my experience.

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BT474 t1_j49wo1c wrote

Hello we have a 1 bed 1 bath appratment with Den available for sublease. Rent is 1860$ includes(insurance + trash + water ). Please DM me for more information.

The place is closer to columbia mall and surounded by gold courses. Great for walking/running during summer and fall. ( includes pool and gym )

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dude_v t1_j4avfok wrote

10000 Town Center Ave Columbia, MD 21044 United States

look here! I have a friend who lives in this complex! says that you can rent a one-room apartment for 1800!

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howard_co_realtor t1_j4xws6h wrote

Sent a chat message but not sure if you got notified. Check and let me know. :)

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rllylongname t1_j4a7bqt wrote

The brook at Columbia And the bluffs at fairway hill

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TEdwards_Homes t1_j5bczmr wrote

Hello, I am a realtor here in Howard County and can help find private condos for rent in the area. Is this something you may be interested in? Send me a message and I’ll set you up with a list.

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J72PF14 t1_j4744qz wrote

Would not recommend the downtown / town center area, too many transients and homeless. My $2500 apartment regularly has people sleeping in the stairwells/lobby areas.

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