Allow me to commence by acknowledging that this community is both beautiful and situated in a prime…read morelocation. The apartments are attractive, and the area is excellent. However, my sole reason for rating Elden Galleria with one star pertains to my recent experience with them. I consider myself a fair individual and believe in mutual respect.
On August 6, I submitted an application after deciding on my preferred residence. During my tour with Erin, I inquired whether my Welcome Letter from my new employer, along with my current income, would be accepted. Erin confirmed that it would, which I found satisfactory. Please note that I applied on a Thursday and did not receive any response until midday Monday. I uploaded my information and paid the required fee. Additionally, I included my Welcome Letter as supplementary income documentation, as there was no indication of a start date requirement on the application, so I uploaded it.
On Monday, Erin contacted me via voicemail, requesting a return call. When I returned her call, she informed me that I had been approved, but I would need a guarantor earning six times the rent and possessing excellent credit. This information left me confused and, frankly, annoyed, as I am confident in my creditworthiness and, combined with my Welcome Letter, I generate over $10,000 monthly.
The situation further deteriorated when Erin indicated that I had only a day and a half to find a guarantor earning approximately $12,000+ per month, who would also need to sign on my behalf to facilitate the rental process. I attempted to contact her again but received no response. When speaking with a representative at the office, I was advised to contact Rent Grow to clarify the issue of 'Insufficient Proof of Income.' Rent Grow then informed me that the property could easily adjust my income verification using my Welcome Letter, thereby rectifying the approval process.
Subsequently, Erin called back, indicating I had until 2pm to secure a guarantor. I shared Rent Grow's feedback with her, and she stated that I was approved normally, but recent policy changes no longer accepted Welcome Letters, which would disqualify my letter since I applied late last week. Contrary to this, Erin also claimed that my application was not a standard approval because I did not include a start date, despite having uploaded the Welcome Letter with an 8-16 start date. Erin further asserted that only ownership could amend an application after submission. These conflicting statements culminated in frustration.
Erin also mentioned that it is not feasible to maintain two full-time jobs, a statement I find bewildering, as I have historically worked multiple full-time positions to advance financially.
I am at a loss for words regarding this conduct and am deeply concerned about the apparent display of rental discrimination through unequal terms. My recent experiences are shocking. I even contacted Sydney, the Senior Community Manager, who was unable to assist. This situation is unacceptable, and I intend to share my experience publicly.
Due to a lack of transparency regarding the new Welcome Letter policy, the omission of a start date, the Magic Gurantor and the assertion that I cannot work two full-time jobs, I was denied tenancy at Elden Galleria
This has been the most distressing experience I have encountered since relocating to Georgia.
I urge prospective tenants to ensure they evaluate rental options carefully and prioritize communities that demonstrate genuine concern for their residents and uphold equal treatment standards. Requiring me to find a guarantor within 24 hours is unreasonable and sets individuals up for failure. I possess adequate credit and income to rent independently and do not require a guarantor.