Riverlofthttps://www.riverloftapartments.com2300 Walnut St.
Studio, 1BR, 3BR
Overall impressionsThis is probably the nicest building I visited. It's a mid-rise w/ 8-ish floors. The management/leasing agent was the friendliest and clearly the most responsive of all the places I visited. I've already swapped 6 e-mails and spent 30 min on the phone with the woman who showed me around since my visit on Saturday. The apartments are relatively nice with very high ceilings. There's a decent gym with free weights and standard cardio machines. The cardio machines don't have individual TVs, though, which was disappointing (I'm spoiled).
Although I knew this was the nicest place I was going to see, I was skeptical because apartmentratings.com has two complaints about mice in the building. The leasing agent explained that this was a temporary 1-month problem that was quickly taken care of and due to an unusual construction circumstance. I confirmed with a Wharton student living there that she nor her neighbors have had any pest problems during their stay.
LocationThis is the best compromise b/w being close to school and being in Center City. It is right next to the bridge that crosses over to University City. Basically this is as close as you can get to Wharton while still being in Center City.
LeaseAllows a 22-month lease but locks you into a 3% rent increase for the second year.
One-time amenities fee: $175
Public transportationBus across the street that goes to University City
Cab light outside for hailing taxis
ShoppingTrader Joe's ~4 blocks away.
Rite Aid w/ pharmacy 1 block away
ApartmentsSmall Studio: $1500-1650
658 sq ft.
The small studios are definitely cozy. You can view the floor plans on their website, so I won't go into detail. The one note I will make is that there is a small den that is not part of the living area that can be used as the bedroom. When I say bedroom, I mean you can fit a bed in there and that's it. Possibly a night stand, but I'm not sure about that. There is not a lot of closet space, so if you're a girl or a metrosexual (i'm looking at you, solaris1), these studios may not be ideal. In addition, to those who enjoy bubble baths (again, i'm looking at your solaris1), there is no full bathtub, just a shower. The floor is all hardwood. All-in-all, if you want a reasonably priced place and are willing to sacrifice some space for quality and location, this is not a bad option.
Large Studio: $1900
~950 sq ft.
I didn't get to see this layout They only have 8 of these layouts in the entire building. Essentially a 1BR, but the BR is officially a den, because it has no windows, which is why it's called a studio.
1BR Loft: $1970-2200
~950 sq ft.
These are swank apartments and is what I ended up taking. The leasing agent showed me a model apartment, and everything about it was very nice. I really appreciate the large space and ended up being talked into splurging by my friends and family (who would've thought my cheap asian parents would convince me to spend money?). These also have 1.5 baths for those that don't like guests using their main bathroom. If you're a social person, this is a perfect party apartment. Hardwood floors in the living room (for easy beer spill cleaning). Carpets upstairs in the loft bedroom. Tons of closet space.
1BR Flat / 3BR: ??
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Didn't see these, so I know nothing about them. I know they're available, though.
Note: If you go visit this place, PM me. I will give you my name and you can put me down as your referral. I will split the referral bonus with you 50/50 if you end up living here.