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Multifamily

Development Spotlight: Annie Lee Gardens, Arab

July 01, 2019

Development Info:

Olympia Construction developed Annie Lee Gardens in Arab in 2009. For seniors aged 55 and up, Annie Lee Gardens offers comfortable one- and two-bedroom apartments with plenty of extras. Apartments are equipped with a range, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator with ice maker, washer/dryer connections, covered patios, front screen doors, and plenty of storage.

AHFA Funding Sources: 

$1.13 million in HOME funds (2007) and $409,166 in Housing Credits (2007)

Amenities/Tenant Services:

The complex is attractively landscaped, with additional amenities that include a clubhouse, computer center, laundry facilities, fitness center, and an outdoor picnic area with gazebo. Plenty of shopping and dining options can be found about two miles east along U.S. 231.

"In my mind, what makes this property so special is the site manager and the tenants," said Debbie Smith of Olympia Management, Inc. "The tenants take so much pride in the property.  You can talk with each tenant and they tell you how much they love living there."

Annie Lee Gardens site manager Tony Petersen was recently named AHFA's 2019 Manager of the year. Quality management is critical to the success of any affordable housing property, but is especially true of developments for the elderly like Annie Lee Gardens.

"The challenge presented by an elderly complex is you have tenants that get to where they cannot live alone and they have to move in a nursing home or with family, and you also have tenants to pass away," said Smith. "The challenge is for the site manager who is working with the families during such a difficult time."