Geary Courtyard Apartments

Updated review. Started as a good experience, ended up being the worst tenant experience I’ve ever had. Flooded apartments, rats coming into my apartment, forever-​ongoing construction (during rainy season, seriously???), claims to be a dog-​friendly although there is nowhere for dogs to run around or even do their business for that matter, mold, emergency maintenance is useless. All of these issues on a $ 2.5k studio. Just not worth it at all. Stay far far away.

I was going to wait until I moved out to write a review, but just to get another review pop up out of the way, why not?
I’ve lived here for about 3 months now, and it is my first apartment in SF, my first apartment out of TX to be exact. My husband and I have just recently gotten married and since his work has relocated him here we had no idea what to do in SF and had very little time to do any research.
Here’s a given: rent in SF is ridiculous, definitely not worth but I understand we’re renting to be a part of the city. We left a car back in TX thinking we’d save more that way, but transportation costs pretty much rack up to be the same. While we were in TX looking for places to live, the cheapest we can find online (and probably not the best source but it’s all we had) ran for $ 2500 a month and they were pretty much… (and please forgive me for saying this) ratchet. I’m talking tiny tiny rundown apartments in an apartment building that has a lot of character since it’s so old and poorly designed. There was a photo of the shower head literally right next to the window frame and I couldn’t even figure out if a shower curtain would do any good.
At least in Geary Courtyard although the rent is still absurd, it’s a better deal. From what I understand the units were newly renovated, and I love my kitchen counters and cabinets, and the deep sink. I love that my bath tub, toilet, and sink are reasonably spaced. (Again, I’ve seen some horrifyingly cramped bathroom photos in most of the apartments we were hunting in the city). My husband and I really fixed up our small space and it’s adorable, we made it work.
As far as the the staff goes, I really think they’re excellent. They’re very friendly and helpful every time we need to talk to them. The night guard always greets us and he actually checks ID for people who may follow us in that he doesn’t recognize. Plus, GC will host a few community mixers every now and then (TACO THURSDAAY!) and I like how they post the messages we need to see in the elevator.
The other tenants I’ve run into have been lovely. Plenty of dog owners, and even if you share a short elevator ride together we always greet each other to have a great day.
The only thing I’d have to complain about is when the big elevator goes down. (and it’s always the big one) It’s happened a few times and I’ve only lived here 3 monthes. It is a bit inconvenient especially when you have somewhere to be and just waiting to go down 13 stories takes a lot of time.
Overall, I definitely enjoy being here.

I’ve been a resident at Geary Courtyard Apartments for (4) years, it’s a great place to live. The management staff (Kellie Lekar GM) has lived up to all expectations, they continually strive to deliver unparalleled service to their residents. Thank you for making Geary Courtyard Apartments such a comfortable place to live!
Regards,
Jonathan Griffith

Will be living here for 2 years now. But I’m afraid I’ll have to move because they raise the rent to ridiculous level. They say it’s market value but they’re comparing themselves to luxury apartments, which they are not. (The new apartments at Nema has a unit studio for $ 2500. That’s luxury apartment and it’s brand new!)
Geary Courtyard «renovated» some units with «wood» floors and new cabinets and granite countertops. This increases the rent by at least $ 300/​month. For example, a 500 sqft studio unit not renovated is today at $ 2,300. Renovated is $ 2,600. 2 years ago my 500 sqft studio unit was $ 1,800! Then they raised it $ 300/​month after one year. They’ll prob raise it $ 300/​month again this year. So I’ll be out of here.
I think it’s a scam. They renovate some units (which takes like a week or two to finish), jack up the price because it’s «renovated». Then that gives them reason to jack up the price for their other units. Because, you know, it’s «market value». And raising your rent makes it easier for them to force you out. Then they can «renovate» your unit and charge higher rent to the next person (sucker).
I don’t have complaints about the apartment. It’s fine, great location. Area can be seedy but no problems. But the rent price gouging is a definite issue. I know everyone in SF is doing it, and blaming the «techies». Really the problem are real estate corporations taking advantage of the situation. I mean, where does it end? Will they keep raising prices every year at $ 300 a month? Nobody gets a pay raise of $ 300 a month (20%)! If I stay 2 more years, I’ll be paying $ 3,000 month for a 500 sqft studio apartment! With nothing to show for it. It’s not like you get additional amenities and benefits each year! And the property is not getting any younger. It’s all appearances you’re paying for.
Anyway. keep this in mind if you’re planning to stay here long term. It might not be possible. This will never be «home». And the corporation that owns Geary Courtyard (Equity) is just fine with that. It’s all about the $$$$ to them.

I cannot say enough good things about Geary Courtyard apartments. I moved from SoCal (site unseen) and was a little hesitant about being so close to «the lion». The staff was amazing in the transition and truly went above and beyond. Getting such a nice and helpful staff in these big apartment buildings is a rarity. Would highly recommend to anyone who is considering moving in!

Moved in two months ago. Really like the apartment for it’s got great location, there are tons of restaurants within 5 min walk. 10 min walk to Union Square, 20 min walk to my office in downtown.
All the appliances are brand new. My second favorite is the hardwood floor! Just wish the rent is a bit cheaper!

I love Geary and especially the staff there. Justin at the front desk is one of my favorite people in SF hands down. The maintenance guy and support staff are really nice, genuine, and interesting people. Staff is super attentive, quick to respond, and just really nice to chat with. In my years of living at geary, my favorite part was the staff and the current staff is better than ever before.
The studios are getting renovated and they are beautiful. The traditional ones (I’ve lived in one) are also much better than most similar apartments in SF. The carpets suck but i think they’re getting rid of them. The studio was enough space for a couple.
The elevators were out of order intermittently but there was always one working elevator and they were very communicative and proactive about it.
The gym and sauna are nice to have. However, the balcony on the 8^th floor and the huge roof of 14 are amazing. Having laundry in the building (the machines are new) is so convenient.
The neighborhood is more lower nob than tenderloin. Because of all the hotels and bars around, there are tourists around all the time, which makes it safe for a girl to walk home alone at 2am. There are bums here and there but if you have a problem with that and don’t know how to deal with bums, this city is not for you.
Not sure what the other commentors are referencing in terms of bums in the building– ive lived here and a while and have never experienced that. In fact, security won’t buzz people in unless they have access. If residents let bums trail in behind them, they shouldn’t.
Great food options around. Karachi Classics and pearls burger and two of the best food places in the city. Farm: table is great too. I never had to walk more than 5 minutes to find delicious food.
They are renovating the entire building so look out for things to be better. Talk to Justin and Jermaine at the front desk — they are awesome!

I just recently moved out of Geary after a little over a year there. Here are the top 3 most important things you need to know:
1) The location is excellent, there’s great food everywhere. You’re in the heart of the city. You are stradling the Tenderloin and Nob Hill — call it the TenderNob. But, while you’ll encounter your fair share of vagrants, if you avoid the ‘Loin and walk along Geary St., you can walk home as late as you like, cause the street is always buzzing. The building itself is very nice and the apartments are great and newly renovated. Always very cozy and warm. Great outdoor areas on the 8^th floor and the roof (most residents don’t even know about the excellent roof).
2) Unbelievable staff: Justin and Jermaine are the best. The staff in general is incredibly kind and helpful. Looking at the other reviews I can see I’m not the only one who thinks the staff is Boss. Maintenance staff is very responsive and knowledgeable, and the building is always being looked after/​improved.
3) The Rent is relatively pricey — let’s call it $$$, but what’s more troubling is it’s not rent controlled. Truth be told, the main reason I left Geary was that they were looking to hike up the rent on me, and I was already interested in living in a different part of town so they made the decision to move all the easier.

Been living here for about 7 months now and overall I’d have to say I like this place. There are several of pros and cons that I’d like to point out:
Pros:
* Great staff– Jermaine, Justin, Annalyn (sp?) are very wonderful, accommodating and helpful people. I enjoy chatting with them about just about anything. Recently Annalyn got promoted so there is a new manager, Kelly, who already seems very sweet. She’s been here for like 2 weeks and already remembers my name and my dog’s name. Very personable and sweet. Also, the security staff are very nice and do a great job. There was an instance where my boyfriend and I were standing outside near his motorcycle and then there was a drunk, homeless guy who came up to us and started talking to us. There was a point where the homeless guy was whispering something into my bf’s ear and I was pannicking inside worrying he was going to stab him or something. The blonde, tall security guy (I feel so bad drawing a blank on his name right now, quickly came outside to breakup the situation. He came in between the homeless guy and my bf and instantly made me feel safe again. I still feel very appreciative at how quick and observant he is.
* Dog friendly (to a certain extent) — There are two large areas where dogs can roam around free. There are doggy poop bags provided and I was told that the cleaning people also pick up poop? I have never personally seen this but I believe it because overall I don’t see really any leftover poop. Recently though emails have been sent out about keeping out dogs on a leash when they are in the play area. I understand to a certainnnnn extent. I think it’s good to maybe have the leash on the dog when we leave our apartment, go into the elevator, and then to the door of the play area… but honestly the main reason we chose this place is purely because dogs can run FREELY. Or maybe compromise where the dogs can run freely outside until another dog or person comes into the play area… That seems fair. My dog is inside all day until I come home from work. He deserves to run wild and stretch out his legs!
* Maintenance is quick to respond. They usually the day of which is wonderful! They have fixed everything from clogged drains, broken dishwashers, and even painted my bathroom frame because it looked a bit rusty.
* There are occasional resident mixers with free food, drinks and dare I say it– fun? There was a doggy halloween party just the other day where our pets would dress up in costume and given free swag bags (filled with yummy dog treats, poopy bags, collars and dog bowls). It was a very very very nice event and I hope management knows how much us residents appreciate the little things like that! :)
* Good surrounding nightlife: rooftop bar– 620 Jones. Swig. Redford. And other top bars that I have never been to. Also, Polk street is not too far of a walk from here.
* Close to Union Square, BART station, Westfield Mall, etc.
* No need to take public transportation to work! Just a 10 minute walk to the financial district.
Cons:
* It is so incredibly loud at night. My apartment is facing the main Geary street so on weekdays we’ll be hearing homeless people yelling and screaming at each other. There has been a handful of situations where I would wake up at night and look out the window to watch these bums fight and throw punches. Though entertaining sometimes… I’d rather not wake up to such loud situations. During the weekend, the streets are filled with drunk homeless and drunk normal people. Lots of top bars near us (which is definitely a pro) but also a con too.
* Not the greatest food options walking distance. Milan’s Pizza is across the street which is good drunk, hangover food… but no REAL sit down options.
* Security guys leave at 3 am and management doesn’t open till 9 or 10 am. So if you need anything between these times you are absolutely screwed. I’ve hear stories of residents getting locked out during these times and were forced to get a hotel room because they couldn’t get back in. At my old apartment in Chicago, security was 24 hours. I get that maybe that is too much for one security person to work. but they really should get someone to cover that 6 – 7 gap
* There have been a handful of times where I would see homeless people either upstairs on the 8^th floor balcony chilling on the deck or lounging in the roundabout outside. There was this once time where there was this homeless man and woman SLEEPING on the couch in the front lobby. They snuck into the building after security left and left before management arrived. This is unacceptable regardless if a resident accidentally let them in. I get that it is easy to piggy back off of an entering resident. but damn if there was 24 hour security– I doubt this would’ve happened.
* Rent is rising… Understandably but its a little annoying knowing that this building is offered under AFFORDABLE HOUSING so there are tennants that pay less than half of what we pay!

I liked it here, untill they started raising my rent by Crazy amounts.
Studio apt,
Feb 2010 $ 1500 a month
Feb 2011 $ 1750 a month
Feb 2012 $ 2250 a month
I moved in Feb 2012… It just too much to pay for this place and this location. Inside the building was nice… but homeless and crackheads chase you as soon as you start walking down geary.
As another Unilocaler noted — They were asking for much less on craigslist for the same apt they were bumping my rent.

This review is long overdue but I’ve been waiting until I moved away to tell everyone about my residence. This apartment building used to be an undoubtedly 5-​star place. Unfortunately, things have changed in the last couple of months.
Pros:
It’s a wonderful dog community, it seems as though the majority of the residents have pups! My little buddy essentially has his pack here. The courtyards are even stocked with poo bags and are a great area to let the dogs play, off-​leash.
Although the building is in the middle of the block, my apartment (610) is very sunny! It was one of the selling points.
There is a gym. It is small but sufficient enough to make me feel guilty for not using it.
I can’t say a bad thing about the staff, it didn’t take long to become on a first name basis with everyone. They are simply excellent, friendly people: Chiyo and Jermaine in the office and Boris, Felipe and Susana as the service team. Although they’re now gone; Rich («temporarily» reassigned), Josh (pursuing other goals) and Jo (replaced by new security) really made a difference in my day-​to-​day life and deserve a shout out too.
I had no clue how good I had it until the plush life started to disappear.
Cons:
The company providing the security changed, and not for the better. I would never have guessed what a difference it would make but some of the old perks have vanished. The new guys won’t leave the front desk to give a package delivered during the day. We used to be able to park in the courtyard for a limited time (hour max) for convenience. Now I can’t even leave my car to drop off my dog (less than 5 minutes).
I was woken up one morning by screams and pounding coming from people stuck in the elevator. One of the two elevators was down for quite some time. There was even a weekend that both elevators were out in this 14 floor building. It was about a month after breaking that a sign went up stating that the parts would arrive soon. Now, both are «fixed» except one is so loud when it opens my dog is terrified of it.
Spring has caused mold /​algae to cover the bricks of the 8^th floor patio. It’s pretty disgusting; to the point I stopped taking my dog up there every day.
Be warned, the apartments on the street side are incredibly loud at night. My TV has to contend with bum fights and the commotion caused by bar patrons.
The temperature in the hallways is a new but valid problem. It’s either uncomfortably hot or cold which in turn causes tenants to crank up their heat or fans. The inconsistency between floors makes it impossible to find a happy medium throughout.
Last week the overhead light in my living room started acting strange. When I flip the switch it stays on for a couple of minutes then the light goes out. I reported this to the front desk a week ago and was told someone would take a look. I’m slightly fearful of electrical fires and expected maintenance to have the same worry. I placed a request online too but I’m moving out tomorrow so fixing it doesn’t matter to me anymore.
I’m waiting for my laundry as I write this. There are two washing machines and a dryer out of order. There’s always some combination of outages in the laundry room. If you are the one who has a load in when they break, too bad — no refunds.
Six months ago I had thought this would be my home for years to come. The cons that are piling up and the jacked up in rent makes moving out a no-​brainer. I know the building is too new for rent control but they act as if they have no desire to have anyone stay, especially when there are comparable locations nearby. It’s the end of an era, I’m the fourth person leaving (on my floor alone) within the last two months.