Both Greystar and Equity Residential have their pros and cons. Greystar stands out with its community events and resident app, but faces criticisms regarding maintenance and cleanliness. Equity Residential offers flexible leasing options and online portals, but struggles with noise issues and maintenance responsiveness. Prospective renters should carefully weigh these factors and consider specific property reviews before making a decision.
| Attribute | Greystar - Nationwide | Equity Residential - Nationwide |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment | Varies significantly by location. In 2016, Seattle: $810-$3,798, Phoenix: $414-$1,598, Los Angeles: $921-$5,345. In 2024, Los Angeles: $2,000-$3,500. | Not available |
| Security measures | USPA Nationwide Security integrates advanced surveillance systems, access control, and on-site security personnel. Greystar uses the McAfee SECURE program on their websites. | Equity Residential communities may have courtesy patrol services and/or limited access gates. These measures should not be interpreted as providing additional security or protection from criminal activities. Courtesy patrol officers primarily assist with after-hours resident issues, locking up community facilities, and monitoring parking lots. Some properties have security doors, but there have been instances of broken locks and security issues not being repaired promptly. |
| Pet policy | Allows two animals or fewer per apartment, must be six months or older. Breed restrictions apply and may change without notice. Restricted breeds include Akita, American Bulldog, Chow Chow, Doberman, German Shepherd, Great Dane, Husky breeds, Malamute, Pit Bull breeds, Presa Canario, Rottweiler, Staffordshire Terrier, and St. Bernard. Additional security deposits, veterinarian statements, and consent forms may be required. | Certain dog breeds are not permitted, including American Pit Bull Terriers, American Bullies, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and any dogs that are cross breeds of or are related to such breeds. Residents may be required to have a licensed veterinarian verify their pet's weight and breed, and a photograph of the pet may be requested for the resident file. Pets/assistance animals must be on a leash and under the resident's control at all times when walking through the lobby and throughout all other common areas. |
| Availability of amenities | Varies by property but can include walk-in closets, large windows, fresh air ventilation, high-efficiency appliances, fitness centers, swimming pools, parking facilities, and pet-friendly accommodations. | Equity Residential offers a variety of amenities, but specific amenities vary by property. Recreational facilities and common spaces may occasionally be closed for maintenance or other reasons. Some complexes have pools, gyms, and clubhouses. |
| Parking options and associated costs | Vary. Some properties offer assigned parking spaces for an additional fee, such as $320/month. Covered parking/garages are also a desired amenity. | Not available |
| Maintenance response time and quality | Some reviews indicate slow maintenance response times, requiring multiple requests. Other reviews mention ongoing, unresolved maintenance issues. | Some reviews mention responsive management and maintenance teams. Maintenance requests can be submitted via the resident website. However, other reviews indicate slow or inadequate maintenance response, with some issues not being resolved even after multiple reports. |
| Lease terms flexibility | Offers both fixed-term leases and month-to-month rental agreements. Month-to-month agreements offer flexibility but are often more expensive. Breaking a lease may involve termination fees and notice periods. | Equity Residential properties typically offer a variety of lease term options, which can vary by location and specific property. Generally, the minimum lease term is often twelve months, but some properties may provide the flexibility of shorter leases, such as six months or even month-to-month agreements, depending on availability and demand. 70% of survey respondents were favorable towards flexible leasing, and 50% said they'd be willing to pay an extra $500 upon move-in for flexible lease terms. |
| Community events and social activities | Communities host various events, such as pool parties, plant repotting events, grand openings, and holiday-themed events. They also hold charity golf events. | Not available |
| Online resident portal features | Greystar has a resident app for communication and services. | Residents can submit maintenance requests and make payments via the online resident portal. |
| Noise levels and soundproofing between units | Some reviews mention noise issues, such as hearing neighbors or disturbances. | Some reviews mention noise issues, with thin walls and noise complaints. One review notes increased noise due to a window that couldn't be closed. |
| Utilities included in rent | Not specified if utilities are included. | Whether utilities are included in the rent can vary by community and specific apartment. Some residences may include certain utilities, such as water and trash removal, in the monthly rent, while others may require tenants to set up their own utility accounts for electricity, gas, and internet services. |
| Square footage of available units | In Seattle, the average square footage for a one-bedroom apartment is 685 sq ft. In Phoenix, it is 707 sq ft, in Los Angeles, 742 sq ft, and in Houston, 756 sq ft. | One review mentions a 688 sqft apartment. More generalized information was not found in the search results. |