Resident Holiday Cheers & Jeers

The holiday season can be a magical time—but it can also be fraught with stress. This is especially the case at apartment buildings. Kingsley Associates and MHN partnered to find out what renters like and dislike about this time of year.

“The management staff leaves notes and surprise packages for the holidays at all the residents’ doors. This shows that we are valued as residents.” —Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada

“During the holiday season, there were multiple signs reminding residents to pick up packages in a timely manner due to limited space, but then there wouldn’t be anyone available at the front desk to assist us with retrieving our packages.” —Alexandria, Va.

“I would have loved more reminders before I was charged a $150 late fee for rent during the holiday weekend. I got three emails regarding the Christmas party, but no warnings about the late rent when I was traveling for the holidays.” —Portland, Ore.

“It is a special touch when the leasing staff sends holiday cards to each resident to show that they care about our experience at the community.” —Glen Burnie, Md.

“During the holiday season, I have enjoyed the Friday donuts and complimentary holiday gift wrapping. It has been such a help to be able to drop off my gifts and have them nicely wrapped!” —Surprise, Ariz.

“The fact it was during the holidays made me even more surprised that maintenance came to fix the small issue so quickly. I’m a new resident and this has really made the experience of moving into a new place that much better.” —San Antonio

“It would be great if the clubroom could stay open until 12:30 am for New Year’s gatherings. Most of us are still young and very social! We are only asking for a once-a-year exception to celebrate with our fellow residents!” —Marietta, Ala.

“I lived through an entire winter without heat or a functional stove and oven. It took eight months to have my stove and thermostat replaced. Needless to say, it was the worst Thanksgiving and Christmas ever since I had to use my microwave to cook.” —Des Moines, Iowa

“One major issue I had during the holidays was the maintenance person on call. I understand he lives very far from the complex, but my entire apartment had flooded! There should be someone more local on call during the holidays.” —RSM, Calif.

“I love that the complex started wine-down Wednesdays and serving brunch during the holidays this winter. It helps bring together this complex as a community.” —Nashville, Tenn.

“The office staff works hard to provide neighborhood activities like food truck Thursdays and Christmas festivities. It was delightful to have a Santa and Mrs. Claus meet and greet without any lines or fees. My kids loved it!” —Phoenix

“My old complex had Christmas tree disposal bins provided during specific dates. When we requested information on what to do with our tree here, we were only emailed a link to the city website on where to take it, which was nowhere close.” —San Diego

“The office will not hold packages for us and there are constant complaints of package theft. Just this past Christmas alone, my daughter had three packages stolen that were Christmas gifts. Any kind of package locker would be amazing.” —Chula Vista, Calif.

“Some of the policies of the property are harsh, strict and not entirely necessary. For example, we have to take Christmas decorations down within 48 hours after Christmas is over. Why does this matter?” —La Habra, Calif.