Empire Apartments By Barsala

The community center that was advertised for residents still needs work, and I hope they get it done. One reason I moved here was the potential construction of that space, along with the hot tub. If we’re going to live without the hot tub, I’d like the rent we pay to include a usable community center with snacks and things for residents to do. These are some of the most expensive studios in Moscow, so adding that would make the cost feel more worthwhile. Another thing that still frustrates me is the office closing early without notice. My classes are in the morning, so I usually try to get mail or visit between 2 PM and 5 PM, but the office is often shut before the posted 5 PM closing time. Once, it was closed at 3:45 on a Tuesday, and I’d wasted the walk. I don’t need to go as often now that I have a mail key, but I still wish they’d let us know when they’re closing early. I’ve lived at The Empire since August 2023 and just renewed my lease. In that time, I think there have been three or four property managers. The earlier ones didn’t make lasting improvements to beautify the place or make it more useful, were hard to reach, and weren’t consistently in the office. The current property manager is astronomically better. Many reviews from more than three months ago reflect the previous managers, and I agree they could be careless, rude, and biased depending on who they spoke with or their mood. My problems were often dismissed or left for me to handle. Things have been refreshing under the new manager. The laundry room now looks like somewhere residents might actually want to wait, parking is enforced, and the mailboxes are ready for use and approved by the USPS. In the short time she’s managed the property, there have been more positive changes for residents than in my entire previous year here. I appreciate the effort.

The location is ideal, just an easy walk to the university, and I’m very happy living here. I’ve been here for several years. The complex had challenges getting fully renovated and reaching its potential, but lately management has clearly changed for the better. They’re more responsive, new amenities have been added, and maintenance issues get handled quickly. The staff are professional and helpful, and I’d recommend the place.

I haven’t lived at The Empire long enough to give a fully accurate review, but I wanted to share how things have been so far and may update later. The rooms are small for the price, though being so close to campus is great for students, and it’s cheaper than some on-campus options. They’re bigger than a dorm room. My roommate and I have dressers, but closets would be nice for extra storage. The hot tubs, BBQ area, and other things are still being built, hopefully they’ll be finished soon. Sounds fun. I’d read other reviews about staff problems and don’t know if those same people are still working here, but the current property manager, Kiarra, and the maintenance guy have both been kind and helpful. On move-in day, I noticed a tiny mold spot by the window. It worried me, but the maintenance guy came right away and cleaned it up quickly. I’m out of town with family now, and when a package arrived at my apartment, the property manager offered to pick it up and keep it safe. She was respectful in her emails and happy to help. Good communication from management is a good sign for tenants. The older reviews make it sound like things weren’t great before, but maybe the current staff can improve that. I’ll update this as I live here longer.

Since Kiarra became manager, the complex has changed dramatically for the better. She communicates exceptionally well with residents, responds to concerns promptly, and has helped create a stronger sense of community. The atmosphere and management have both improved, making it a much nicer place to live. Her dedication and initiative make residents feel valued and well informed. I’d highly recommend living here.