Ashley

When your career is specific and a job opportunity presents itself, you practically have to take it - even if that means moving halfway across the country. The question is, how does one accomplish such a move? Well, thanks to the internet, searching for a new home so far from home isn't such a daunting task. Ashley's excitement didn't come without hesitation. Purchasing a home without seeing it in person wasn't a risk she was willing to take, so she opted for one of our awesome rentals instead. With features like online applications, paying your rent online, and an FAQ section that will make you giggle, her moving truck was packed by the time her place was secured. She and her two crazy cats are settling in nicely. She's getting out, meeting her new neighbors, trying all the different St. Louis style pizzas, and looking for a place she can get her dance on. Please don't be offended, but considering she's from the Pacific Northwest, Ashley will likely laugh in the face of St. Louis "snow." Midwest, meet Ashley, your new neighbor.

What prompted your move; was it your love of moving boxes

Last March, I moved to Saint Louis for work. The AZA Reproduction Management Center is essentially the national center for family planning for zoo animals, serving all AZA institutions across the US with a focus on fertility and contraception. I am a nerd to the core, and my position at the Saint Louis Zoo allows me to embrace both my love of animals and my love of statistics. Thus, I couldn’t turn down the opportunity to pack my bags and come experience what the Midwest had to offer.

What were the "must haves" for your new place?

First off, I had to find a place that my two furry friends could also call home. Next, the rooms that I scrutinized the most were the kitchen and the bathroom. I enjoy cooking, and there is nothing more frustrating than not having enough counter or cabinet space. I also really wanted a pantry and dishwasher. In terms of the bathroom, I wanted something updated, and I really dislike pedestal sinks. A linen closet was also important. One of my “must haves” was definitely adequate closet space throughout the entire apartment. Lastly, I preferred an apartment that was all electric, with energy efficient windows. I didn’t want to pay too much for my utilities.

Did you see a ton of apartments or just a few? What made this one stand out?

I think I looked at 5 apartments or so. I had been stalking the listings on the Garcia Properties website, so I had a good idea which units I wanted to walk through. The real selling point on my apartment was the bonus room in the front. It has beautiful lighting with all of the large windows, so I envisioned a beautiful office space where I could work on writing manuscripts. I also loved the location.

Did anything surprise you once you moved in?

I think what has surprised me most is how friendly everyone in the neighborhood has been. This is the first time I’ve ever lived on a true city block, so I came in with the assumption that people don’t know or care about each other much. I can tell that my block is actually quite the opposite, and it has been a fantastic surprise.

What was your favorite part of working with Garcia Property Management?

I think what I have liked most about Garcia Properties is the friendly and helpful staff. One day, when I went to pick up a spare key after locking myself out of my apartment, there was a lovely handwritten card that was very sympathetic to my predicament. It brought a smile to my face. It’s the little things like this that make an apartment feel like a home.