Changing Small Community Perception of Apartment Complex

[Jay Helms]

And when I say small community, not that small, there are actually TWO red lights :)

We're looking a small apartment complex that will be a turn around project. Sitting at 50% occupancy, current ownership is a retiring landlord, lost interest years ago. Spending some time in the community, the feedback we've received is "you don't want to live over there" ... "that's a bad place". 

Now looking at Trulia AND being familiar with the area, crime rate is extremely low and we're convinced we have a community perception problem. 

Below is a list of our ideas to change the community's perception:

• Exterior Renovations:  paint & trim out the buildings, repave the parking lot, new signage
• New Ownership / New Management signs on the property
• Interior Renovations: newly remodeled units and remodeled laundry facility
• Have the local newspaper publish a story on our turn around project
• Provide a couple units to local sheriff deputies who will drive their police cruisers home

What are some other ideas you've incorporated to change a community's perception of a certain property?

Should we consider implementing:

• a security camera system?
• Gated access?
• Block party to invite the community?