Complaint Review: Ardent Property Management "T.C." Manager Credit & Collections

I was a resident at Emerald Lakes / Vistas at Wedgewood, operated by Ardent Property Management during the time of January 2008 through October 19th, 2008. I gave the property manager my written 60 day notice - with a scheduled move out date on September 30th. Just prior to the end of my lease, I was made aware that I would not be able to move into my new home until October 17th. With that said, I contacted the Property Manager and asked if I would be able to stay in the apartment an extra two weeks until I could get into my new home. The property manager said this was no problem, pending my apartment was not rented (it was not) and to let him know what date I would need to stay. I let him know at that time I would be out on October 19th, thus allowing me time to move and clean the apartment. He said no problem and that he would send me the pro-rated billing for the month of October. I filled out the necessary move out forms, dropped off my keys and was told that I should receive the security deposit and final monies owed within 30 days.

Fast forward to November 20th, 2008 - at 11:30am I received a call from "T.C." who accused me of "skipping out" on my lease and threatened I owed an amount totaling $1833 for late fees, 2 months rent and other false damage move out items. If I did not pay him by credit card immediately over the phone he was going to take me to court. I was very confused and tried to explain what I was told. I was not comfortable giving my credit card information over the phone to someone I did not know. Without dragging out the detail, I finally convinced him to let me off the phone to figure out the situation.

I called the property manager at Emerald Lakes who verified my story and tried to convey this message to his manager and to "T.C.". It didn't seem to matter - "T.C." called me a total of seven times that day more harassing with each call - using terms such as "You are wasting my frigin time" and "I am GOD, I am the only one who can help you." I have never been treated with such disrespect. While I am sure his job must be difficult, at the point the property manager verified my story he should have been more understanding of the situation.

With all of this said, I have contacted an attorney who is now handling my situation. However, since this incident I have had several contacts who have forwarded links to others that have had issues with Ardent Property Management and specifically this "T.C.". I would encourage everyone to view the numerous "rip off report" complaints specifically on "T.C." and Triangle Real Estate / Ardent Properties. Additionally, my attorney has also found through conversations with the Better Business Bureau there is a history of complaints with Ardent regarding strong arm tactics and padding of bills.

I have never "written a letter" of discontent in my life, but I feel that this is worthy of letting other be weary of renting from Ardent Properties.

Jennifer
Columbus, Ohio
U.S.A.