ComplaintsforThe Connor Group, LLC

• Initial Complaint

  03/14/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  There are a number of concerns involving this company and their practices, specifically at their New Albany Estates property. 1. Their disorganized leasing office: when I was first relocating to Columbus they had me sign a lease for an apartment that was already occupied by another individual. This mistake costs me and my family weeks of turmoil as we could not get my kids enrolled in school because the utilities with that customer and myself had been merged. Secondly, they gave us an incorrect lease following that first mishap. The lease was not the correct amount, the only reason we caught this was because we wanted to terminate the lease. They secretly made the corrections/changes to our lease without consent or us agreeing on anything. 2. There are serious health hazards associated with this complex. To name a few: - Exposed electrical wire because of missing faceplates on sockets. - Birds living and dying inside of HVaC ventilations. We recently had a multiple birds enter through our dry exhaust and die inside the dryer. - Dangerously outdated and poorly repaired and reused appliance causing a Fire hazard, after receiving a replacement dryer from the one that killed the birds. The following day the replacement dryer caught fire. - Sanitary issues with garbage mountains being made at dumpsters and garbage all through the internal walk ways of the complex. Sanitation issues with the tubs/showers being completely brown and dirty on first day of moving in. - Double payments on “utilities” the company charges each resident for commercial internet but we also have to pay the internet provider by setting up our own internet plans. We have spoken to the Regional Partner and VP Sal Gracia who offered no help or support. This location is in a prime location for families who want to attend the local school district and they should not have to live like this to ensure their families have that opportunity.

  

  Business response

  03/25/2024

  Management has spoken with this resident on the details of their move in, met in person 3/14 at 10 am regarding their dryer. They are sending directions on how to make sure they are only on the bulk Spectrum and not paying for it separately. The resident's wife is going to request a refund for her double payments to Spectrum. Management asked the resident over the phone for specifics on what we can help him with in his apartment right now and this is what he provided:
  
  Blow out vent to dryer
  Install cover on flap to prevent birds entering
  New dryer caught on fire evening 3/13 – inspect and fix
  Washer doesn’t disperse water fully – clothes do not get clean/dampened during wash
  AC not working – they brought 3 of their own air conditioners after they moved in – asked for reimbursement
  
  The resident requested that management meets with them to look at their bath tub to see if it needs “replaced” as it was “filthy” and brown at move in- time will be scheduled for this.
  The resident wants out of his lease early and understands that we don’t have a lease break or cancellation policy. 

• Initial Complaint

  03/04/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Billing Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  I stayed at this complex and they falsely sued me for an eviction AFTER I moved out. I moved out of this complex in March 2018 and they filed an eviction for me in May 2018. Although Butler County court ruled in my favor, the company then sold an illegitimate debt of $491 to a debt collector. The court ruled in my favor on August 6, 2018, and McCauly sent the debt to a collector on August 28, 2018. I have been dealing with this dishonest complex for years and am now forced to pay again for a lawyer to sue them. I have attempted unsuccessfully to have this incorrect debt from McCauly Crossing permanently removed from my credit report. The debt is removed and then it reappears from a different company. This is causing me to have difficulties securing housing and it is all due to the dishonest business practices of this company. I need this false debt and collections removed from my credit report. I have attached a copy of the decision from the magistrate, the original affidavit submitted by my lawyer to the court, and a screenshot showing the debt on my credit.

  

  Business response

  03/18/2024

  The August 2018 judgment that dismissed the property's claims against *** **** for non-payment of rent did not encompass her outstanding balance due to Resident Billing Services (RBS) being a separate legal entity.  The outstanding balance due to RBS was for utilities and services associated with her residing at McCauly Crossing, rather than rent itself, so we believe that the balance is valid.
  
  To that point however, we acknowledge that it is reasonable for an individual to assume that the two debts would be one in the same as they were both associated with the defendant residing at the property.  As we do not want *** ****'s life to continue to be encumbered, we are willing to clear her outstanding debt.  We respectfully request that, given our willingness to do so and bring the matter to a close, *** **** withdraw her BBB complaint.

  Customer response

  03/18/2024

  
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ****** ****

• Initial Complaint

  02/20/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  I applied in person with the Manager ***** in the amount of $1,121.45. Six hundred for three adult applicants my daughters and I, 500.00 for the admin fee, and 21.45 for the platform fee. The platform was promised to be reimbursed once the fees are cleared by the bank. We were approved and I paid the security deposit in the amount of 1,529.25 on January 24th. Fifteen hundred for the security deposit and 29.25 for the refundable platform fee. I am a voucher tenant so the property completed the packet and passed the inspection. I called and stopped by multiple times requesting the lease. I spoke with Manager ***** in person on the 29th of January and he assured me that I would receive the lease that evening. I never received the lease so I stopped by to meet with ***** the following day and the Manager ******* informed me that he was no longer employed with the property. Therefore, she would complete the lease and forward it to the housing authority. The caseworker insisted that she attach the appliances to the lease but ******* was very agitated and refused. She refused to honor the signed packet which is a signed agreement between myself, the HACFL, and Wyndham West Villas. In addition she refused to honor the lease signed January 30th. The agreement was for myself and my family to move in on January 31st. Just recently I found out that ***** was still employed with the property and they were dishonest. Once I left the property they informed me that they are going to reimburse us for the security deposit and the admin fee. I did not agree with their decision because I signed the lease and passed the screening. Therefore, I asked to be fully refunded but they declined to reimburse the application fee. I received an even 1500.00 and it is not what we agreed on. Due to the fact under special circumstances application fees are refundable and the admin fee was promised by phone conversation on January 30th. We are owed 1150.70 and now. Please help!

  

  Business response

  03/01/2024

  The resident will be refunded the remainder of the amount that is owed to her so she will have a full refund.

  Customer response

  03/01/2024

  
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********.  I find that this resolution of a full refund in the amount of $1,121.45 is satisfactory to me.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ******** ********

• Initial Complaint

  02/16/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Billing Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I moved from NC to FL August 2023. I lived at **** ******** ****** **** ** ***** for 3-4 years which is called The Reserve at Cary Park which is owned by The Connor group based in Ohio. I never missed a rent payment. When I moved I owed rent from Sept 2023- Jan -2024. They advised me they would try to get the apartment rented so I wouldn’t have to pay any balance left on the lease. They never tried. I took money out of my 401k to pay my balance to get out of the lease. I called and texted the rental office and asked for my security. I spoke to the manger at the property and confirmed he would get back to me. Never did. I called the billing office and that told me I had 0 balance without my security being used. So I should get back my full security. The apt was professionally cleaned out by the same people they use. Please look into this and stop these people predatory practices. Regards, **** *******

  

  Business response

  03/20/2024

  This former resident signed his lease stating the dates he is legally bound to. There is no lease break policy and the former resident was aware. Management has been in contact with the former resident regarding the final account statement and any charges being taken from his security deposit.

  Customer response

  03/21/2024

  
  Complaint: ********
  
  I am rejecting this response because I have

  been advised 4 weeks ago a credit of 69.00

  would be mailed to my new address which the management has. So I do not have any check in my possession. Please rectify this immediately.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  **** *******

  

  Business response

  04/23/2024

  This former resident's refund deposit check was mailed 3/25/2024. There is no documented history of a $69 credit.

• Initial Complaint

  01/29/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I need to leave this apartment and get a refund due to inhalation of mold and the problem has not been resolved at The Villas of Wyndham Lakes in Coral Springs, FL 33076 I notified The management ******* ******** and the owners of The Connor Group about the mold problem in this apartment back on November 13, 2023, a month after I moved into a unit on Oct 9 2023 ***** ** **** ** ********* ***** ***** ******* ***** at The Villas at Wyndham Lakes. I requested that the mold condition be repaired and cleaned. I sent you the pictures of the mold problem and the health hazard. I waited patiently for a response, but it has been ignored completely. On January 1, 2024, notified them again regarding the mold in the AC unit and the hazard because now we are sick, with fatigue, headaches, breathing problems, excessive thirst, congestion, cough, etc. I also sent the pictures of the mold and a picture of the mold compliance. On Jan 24 I emailed them another letter of Complaint regarding the health or safety of your dwelling. Requested necessary repairs. As of today January 27, after two months of my request no one has come to the attention of these health and safety hazards. They showed up to see the mold and painted the dirty vents but the mold is still not treated in the AC unit. The driveway hazard and the fire sprinkler system are still broken. The windows also have mold and dirt. The bathrooms constantly get mold because is in the air. My son and I have been inhaling mold since we moved here and we are getting sick. The amount of flies and insects that get in through the hole in the ceiling is affecting my sleep, my skin, and my health in general. There are mosquitoes constantly flying in the room from the hole in the ceiling. The No Lease Break Policy is a threat by this company which oversees these hazards and does not take care of the underlying problems. Please see the attached files and letters. I need to leave they Broke the lease. I need help.

  

  Business response

  02/09/2024

  Management has been to this resident's unit to check the vents. There was no mold in the vent, but dust. Maintenance had the air ducts cleaned to get the dust out of the vents. The "hole in the ceiling" is not a hole, but is the cover plate that is attached to the sprinkler head. Management had Century Fire out to inspect all homes to make sure they order cover plates and get them replaced. This cover plate that is missing does not cause bugs or mosquitoes to come into the home. Management recently had all the roofs replaced and during construction, they had 2 layers of protection down before the tile went on.

• Initial Complaint

  01/22/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Order Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  Tuesday 01/16/2024@ approximately 4:00pm, I made arrangements with someone at the leasing office from district of linworth to view an apartment. Arrived for viewing approximately 5:30, they close at 6, and signed what I was told was an application for the apartment. The very next day, at 7:30am and again at 9:00am approximately 15 hours later, I called and requested that they pull the application, hoping I could get my 500$ back before the application process began, only to be told that I had signed a rental agreement and I was to move in February 1st. I do not want this apartment. I was only getting research on it. She’s saying the only way I can get out of this now is by denial from the underwriters. I told her I did not want to proceed with the underwriting process, and was told if I didn’t submit proof of employment I would be held liable for the term of the lease, so now I feel my only hope is my application is denied. I don’t even know the term of the lease. I strongly expressed I did not want this apartment and I can’t afford this place.

  

  Business response

  01/23/2024

  Prospect came in, toured, and closed. He paid his application fee, admin fee, filled out his lease, filled out his application, application acknowledgment form and his utilities addendum. The next morning, he called to try and cancel, and management explained that he can’t cancel per his signed application acknowledgement form. He told me he was not going to send me any of his information. The property manager explained that he would be held to his lease and that we need for him to provide the items he already told us he would, and we would complete his credit underwriting. He said that he understood that he signed all the paperwork but that it had been less than 15 hours he wanted to cancel. Management told him that he signed multiple documents stating that he knew he was going into a legal binding contract with us.  

  Customer response

  01/24/2024

  
  Complaint: ********
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  it was not worded to me as a legal binding contract until the next day when I wanted to cancel. The night I toured and applied, that’s all I thought and was told that I had done. There is an entire Facebook page with 2k+ members discussing the shady practices of the Connor group in this and other owned location. I wish I had seen it and your 1 star BBB rating before applying. I want nothing to do with this apartment complex. If there’s such a long wait list, why would you want a tenant that immediately wanted to pull what they thought and were told was just an application and try to force them into a lease that they cannot afford? You people are monsters. You’re a multibillion dollar corporation taking advantage of broke people. 
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ****** *******

• Initial Complaint

  01/16/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Billing Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I am writing to seek your assistance in resolving a pressing issue with the Connor Group (Arbors of Anderson) concerning the misrepresentation of property amenities and the subsequent refusal to address critical issues, leading us to request the termination of our lease. On August 12th, during our apartment tour with Leasing Agent ****** ******** we were assured that the 1 BR apartment we viewed would be identical to the unit we would lease. Despite executing a 1-year lease and paying an application fee of $610.68 and a deposit of $1222.38, we discovered significant discrepancies upon our arrival in Cincinnati. The assigned apartment not only had carpeting instead of the promised hardwood floors but also exhibited a code violation with the front door obstructed by the kitchen counter. Despite documenting these issues during the move-in inspection and multiple requests for resolution, both concerns remain unaddressed. The outdated carpet poses health risks for my son, who suffers from allergies to dust (ADA issue), and the blocked front door constitutes a fire code violation. Citing Ohio Tenant-Landlord Law, we formally request the termination of our lease under health and safety provisions, as over 30 days have elapsed since reporting these issues (COHHIO). In light of the Connor Group's refusal to cooperate and considering their history of unethical practices, as evident in Better Business Bureau complaints (*****************************************************************************************************************, we vacated the unit on January 12th, ensuring it was 'make-ready.' On January 10th, we emailed our request for lease termination effective 1/31/2024 and a refund of our deposit due to the issues mentioned. Unfortunately, this request was denied by General Counsel **** ******** on January 13th (See Attached). I kindly seek your urgent assistance in facilitating a resolution to this matter.

  

  Business response

  01/29/2024

  This resident has an attorney and has been in contact with our General Counsil. They have been informed that management does not have a lease break clause and will not be terminating the lease early.

• Initial Complaint

  01/12/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Billing Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I am writing to express my deep concern/dissatisfaction w/ the handling of my security deposit following the termination of my lease at ** ********* ****** *** ***** ******** ** *****. After several longstanding issues that have persisted during my tenure as a tenant & despite my attempts to communicate and resolve these matters amicably, I have encountered numerous obstacles and a lack of responsiveness from property management. I believe it is necessary to formalize my concerns in writing. It has come to my attention that the management's actions are in violation of Georgia landlord-tenant laws, specifically regarding charges for repairs or replacements due to normal wear and tear. As stipulated by GA law (O.C.G.A. § 44-7-30 to § 44-7-37), landlords are prohibited from charging tenants for repairs or replacements caused by normal wear and tear. This includes, but is not limited to, carpet, paint, window coverings, and dishwashers. These provisions are in place to protect the rights of tenants and ensure fair and lawful treatment. Despite the clear legal framework, I was advised my deposit was being forwarded to my forwarding address and I have not received the return of my security deposit within the required timeframe because they are not returning it. Moreover, I have been made aware that deductions are being considered for items such as carpet replacement, which, under Georgia law, should be deemed normal wear and tear and not subject to tenant charges. Ashley walked through my apartment in June 2023 and saw it was very maintained. I returned the keys, and the manager did not do work through, but I showed her the attached pics that it was clean and ready to turn back over to them. I request an immediate review of the situation and adherence to Georgia's landlord-tenant laws. I expect the return of my security deposit in full, as the items being cited for deductions fall within the category of normal wear and tear. Heating and Air Conditioning Issues: The persistent problems with the heating and air conditioning systems in my unit have been a major source of inconvenience. Despite reporting these issues on multiple occasions, there has been no meaningful resolution. This has led to costly electric bills, discomfort and at times, even health concerns during extreme weather conditions. Heater Refund Discrepancy: I submitted the receipt for the heater purchase as per your request, anticipating a timely reimbursement. I have yet to receive any confirmation or refund. Deposit Refund Delays: After residing at the property for seven years, I vacated the premises on 11/28/2023. As stipulated in our lease agreement, I expected the return of my security deposit within the GA-specific timeframe 30 days and if a landlord cannot return the agreed-upon funds to the tenant within 30 days, then they may be forced to pay up to three times the security deposit value. ALSO, I paid the last rent and utilities on 11/3 and still being billed. Cease and desist billing me. I OWE NOTHING!!! YOU OWE ME This has not occurred, I need my 3xs security deposit and the lack of communication on this matter is deeply concerning. I understand that property management involves challenges, but the persistent neglect of these issues is unacceptable. I request immediate attention to these matters to avoid further escalation. If necessary, I am prepared to seek legal advice to protect my rights as a tenant. Please provide my funds and a written response within a reasonable timeframe, e.g., 72 hours days outlining the actions you will take to address each of these concerns. Failure to do so will leave me with no choice but to pursue legal remedies to protect my rights as a tenant. I believe in an amicable resolution to these issues and hope we can reach a satisfactory outcome promptly.

  

  Business response

  01/12/2024

  This former resident was charged with carpet replacement due to the damages being far beyond the state of "wear and tear" per the attached photos. She did not receive her security deposit refund in the 30 day time frame as she is not due one. She owes $500 for the damages in the unit.

  She is receiving RBS bills due to utility fees always being billed in arrears since they are based off usage. The fees she was charged in December were accounting for her usage in the unit for her last month of November and is still due.

  Customer response

  01/15/2024

  
  Complaint: ********
  I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to address the recent communication regarding the refund of my security deposit. I appreciate your prompt response, but I must express my disagreement with the assertion that wear and tear charges are applicable in my case.
  As per Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 44-7-30 to § 44-7-37), landlords are prohibited from charging tenants for repairs or replacements caused by normal wear and tear. This encompasses various aspects, including but not limited to carpet, paint, window coverings, and dishwashers.
  I want to clarify that I do not accept the response stating that I owe for wear and tear. I believe this goes against the provisions outlined in the aforementioned Georgia statutes. I kindly request a thorough review of the situation, taking into account the legal restrictions on charging tenants for normal wear and tear.
  If the deposit is not refunded in accordance with the law, I may have no choice but to pursue legal actions to address this matter. I believe in an amicable resolution and hope we can find a solution without resorting to legal proceedings.
  
  PLEASE ALSO NOTE THE FOLLOWING

  IT'S NONSENSE. I LIVED THERE FOR 7 YEARS.  THE CARPET WAS OLD AND USED PRIOR TO ME MOVING IN.  THE DARKNESS ON THE CARPET IS FROM THE DUST THAT SETTLES FROM THE CEILING FAN.  IT NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR THAT CAN BE CLEANED THERE IS NO DAMAGE TO CARPET.  THEY ADDED PICS OF LAUNDRY ROOM WHICH NOTHING IS WRONG AND NORMAL 7 YEARS LIVING, WALLS OF PIC FRAMES ETC. WHICH ADDS INSULT TO INJURY BECAUSE I FOUND THEIR HAND TRUCK THAT MANAGER SAID WAS MISSING AND ADVISED I SAW IT THE NIGHT THAT SEVERAL CARS WERE BROKEN INTO AND SECURED IT FOR HER.  

  Since you are piss poor landlord PLEASE NOTE According to Georgia landlord-tenant laws and the Federal Fair Housing Act, tenants have the legal right to proper housing, meaning that they must be able to live in a rental unit in good conditions. On the other hand, all tenants in Georgia have the legal right to receive fair treatment from their landlord. YOU HAVE BEEN IN BREACH OF CONTRACT due you the landlord's failure to repair may be a breach of the duty to keep the unit in good repair and amount to a 'constructive eviction,' which means you do not have to pay rent.  If the landlord fails to provide these repairs in a reasonable amount of time, the tenant may seek legal advice and compensation for the damage. IN WHICH YOU FAILED TO DO AND PROVIDE. ADDITIONAL TO THE DEPOSIT HEATER REIMBURSEMENT COMPENSATE FOR ALL rent owe due IN THE AMOUNT OF $30,000.00 to broken HVAC &  HEATER.  I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to a prompt resolution
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ******** *******

  

  Business response

  02/06/2024

  This resident is not being charged for wear and tear, but extensive damages shown in the attached photos. Management abides by all Fair Housing Laws and will hold the former resident accountable for the damages to the carpet the way they would any resident. 

• Initial Complaint

  12/26/2023

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  The Paddock East point leasing office and they called her group experience is a Ponzi scheme scam… my time living there has been a less than luxury living experience, I was harassed and threatened for rent while I was begging for my amenities and things inside the apartment to be fixed to be useable. I was threatened and basically made fun of for wanting things to work when i pay just a high amount to live somewhere. I have evidence where things are not fixed in my safety and health are at risk.

  

  Business response

  01/02/2024

  This resident is under Eviction for nonpayment for rent. She owes rent for December as well as January at this time. The resident has asked more than once if we can take a partial payment and it has been explained to her multiple times that it cannot. 
  
  This resident also has an unauthorized person living in her apartment that has not completed an application or paid an application fee to be approved as an occupant. 
  Management has received multiple complaints regarding the marijuana odor from this resident's unit. This is a violation of our community policy.

  The resident has broken the door jam to the front door. She lost her keys and the broke the door getting in. Management will not repair until the damage of the door has been paid for.
  
  She sets unauthorized trash out daily and has been notified that management will fine her for doing so.

• Initial Complaint

  11/06/2023

  Complaint Type:

  Billing Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  As I was doing the walkthrough on 8/7/23 with Kat prior to move in, we noticed 2 major issues at hand. 1. the kitchen sink faucet was missing a handle and inoperable. 2. the freezer had a patch of mold inside of it. Issue 1 was not addressed until we had to call for emergency maintenance due to the kitchen sink disposal clogging a months later on 9/5/23 Issue 2 was never addressed and I had to clean the freezer myself. My biggest concern of all: I signed the lease and there was mention of a $200 pet deposit fee. I had no issue with $200. However, the leasing office later informed me over the phone while I was at work that they had "forgotten" to charge me for the pet deposit fee at move in and that I now owed them $700 for the pet deposit fee. I asked them to double check that was the correct amount and they said yes. I was distracted at work and took their word for it and paid it over the phone immediately. I then checked my lease agreement when I got home and saw that the original amount mentioned was still only $200. I brought this issue up to them and then they showed me the paper copy of my lease that had $700 penned into the pet deposit fee owed where there originally was nothing. This is my issue. They penned in $700 AFTER I signed my lease and then fooled me into paying it. They never gave me a copy of the signed lease after moving in and I allege that that is their loophole in penning it in and them tricking me into paying this amount. I would have never signed the lease had I known it was $700 for a pet deposit fee. I'm here from Chicago, a relatively higher cost of living area, and the highest pet deposit fees I've seen there were around $250-300. There's absolutely no way I would have not only missed the $700 had it been on there initially, but then to also SEE that and AGREE to pay that amount. That is ludicrous. This apartment complex is an absolute scam and they have predatorial practices. Please review this business. Thank you.

  

  Business response

  11/08/2023

  This resident did not disclose that he owned a dog until the day he moved in. He does not have a fee listed in his application acknowledgement form or lease agreement because management was not informed that he owned a dog during the application and leasing process. On the day of move in, the leasing office printed the incorrect welcome packet with the $200 fee. The property manager offered to look into crediting the resident's account for the $500, however the resident informed management that the dog is an ESA. Management informed the resident that they can register the dog as an ESA for the unit as long as they have the correct paperwork. The resident's girlfriend told the property manager that even though the dog wears the ESA vest, they do not have the proper paperwork for the ESA registration.

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