Tarzana Courtyard in Tarzana, CA

Pros

• The reviewer is a recent former tenant and is happy to write this review for anyone thinking of renting.
• The author notes that there are kind, normal, good and considerate tenants.
• The reviewer is hopeful that, now that the building is no longer a senior building, the above issues will be eliminated.
• The reviewer is willing to help prospective renters by sharing their experience.

Cons

• There are numerous issues at Tarzana Courtyard, including a resident pushing her, with billing being the current issue.
• The manager promised to resolve the billing issue by Friday, but weeks have passed with no follow-up or resolution.
• GK allegedly charged the sister a $30 lease-violation fee illegally.
• The management office does not follow up on tenant complaints, and safety/security from homeless and other tenants is not adequately addressed.
• The complex has many mentally ill and/or criminal tenants, suggesting inadequate screening.
• Lease rules are not enforced by the current management, and the overall management has deteriorated, making the building unpleasant.
• There is no onsite manager; the Tarzana Springs manager visits rarely and is rude/arrogant and does not enforce violations.
• A resident is reportedly presenting themselves as the manager, with a history of moving, multiple pets, and disputed pet fees.

Review

Tarzana Courtyard is best suited for residents who prioritize saving money over the comforts of a tightly managed senior community. The pattern of complaints points to a setting where on-site oversight is inconsistent and where tenants must navigate billing and rules largely without reliable staff intervention. In short, this is not a polished, service-driven environment; it is a budget-friendly option for individuals who can handle administrative tasks themselves and accept a rougher, less predictable living climate. For someone hoping for continuous briefing on rules, enforceable policies, and proactive problem-solving, the fit is poor.

Because of the ongoing staffing gaps and lack of accountability, this property should not be the first choice for seniors or families seeking stability. The reviews note that there is no current on-site manager, frequent breakdowns in communication, and questions about who enforces lease provisions. A community that has effectively ceased to market itself as a senior residence - and that acknowledges turnover in management and tenants - should prompt close comparison with other senior living options that offer reliable billing, safety measures, and visible leadership. Alternatives within GK's portfolio or within the Tarzana area deserve serious consideration.

From a practical risk-vs.-reward standpoint, the benefits are almost invisible. The single clear takeaway is the potential for lower living costs, but that advantage is overshadowed by the central risks: alleged illegal charges, stalled responses from the ownership group, and a system where complaints go unanswered. In effect, the cons do more to define the experience than any unspoken positives. The absence of a responsive, accountable management team means problems tend to linger, escalate, or recur, leaving residents and families frustrated and uncertain.

Safety and community governance emerge as the strongest red flags. Multiple residents describe a building where safety concerns are compounded by homeless or mentally ill tenants and inconsistent screening. The lack of an onsite manager amplifies these concerns, making routine issues - like parking, clutter in common areas, or rule enforcement - feel optional at best. A former tenant's account of informal lobby meetings signaling policy changes - such as loss of senior status and lax enforcement - adds to the sense that the community operates with ad-hoc standards rather than clear, enforceable guidelines. The combination of poor responsiveness, questionable billing practices, and a fragile safety net makes this property difficult to recommend.

Prospective residents should demand concrete safeguards before moving in. Require a formal, written billing policy with timely explanations and an auditable ledger; insist on a live contact who oversees day-to-day operations; request a plan for on-site management presence and resident safety measures; and verify current rules enforcement. It is prudent to compare with other Tarzana-area options and with GK properties that demonstrate stronger governance and resident satisfaction. Engaging current residents to understand the lived reality is essential, as is seeking references from families who have faced similar concerns.

Bottom line: Tarzana Courtyard is not well-suited for seniors seeking consistency, safety, and predictable service. The issues reported - billing irregularities, unresponsiveness from ownership, lack of on-site leadership, and safety concerns - significantly outweigh any potential benefit. Families should actively pursue alternatives that offer clear management accountability, transparent billing, and proactive resident safety. If Tarzana Courtyard remains under consideration, lock in firm commitments on billing, management presence, and safety protocols in writing, and set a deadline for decisive improvements. The goal is to protect finances, well-being, and peace of mind, not to gamble on a property with such a concerning track record.

This part of Tarzana, California offers a variety of amenities for senior living. With several pharmacies in close proximity, accessing medication and healthcare supplies is convenient. Additionally, there are multiple dining options ranging from fast food to more upscale restaurants, providing choices for every palate. The area also boasts numerous parks and cafes, perfect for leisurely walks or socializing with friends. For medical needs, there are reputable physicians and hospitals nearby offering quality care. The presence of a transportation hub and airport provides easy access to travel options. Additionally, there are places of worship for spiritual fulfillment. Overall, this neighborhood combines convenience, entertainment, and healthcare services making it an attractive option for seniors looking to settle in a vibrant community in Tarzana.

Restaurants

• McDonald's (0.6 miles)
• Uncle Bernie's Deli (1.5 miles)
• Vinh Loi Tofu (1.6 miles)
• Wendy's (1.9 miles)
• Chili's Grill & Bar (2 miles)
• Chick-Fil-A (2.1 miles)
• The Stand American Classics Redefined (2.2 miles)

Pharmacies

• CVS Pharmacy (0.6 miles)
• Walgreens (0.6 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (1.3 miles)
• Walgreens (1.5 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (1.9 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (1.9 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (1.9 miles)

Parks

• Encino Bike Path (1.1 miles)
• Lake Balboa Park (2 miles)
• Serrania Park (3.3 miles)
• Top of Topanga Overlook (4.6 miles)
• Shadow Ranch Park (5 miles)
• Parthenia Park (5 miles)
• Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Park (5.5 miles)

Cafes

• Winnetka Bowl (2.3 miles)
• Starbucks (2.5 miles)
• Starbucks (4 miles)
• Starbucks (4 miles)
• Porto's Bakery & Cafe (4.1 miles)
• Starbucks (5.1 miles)
• Starbucks (5.3 miles)

Transportation

• Van Nuys Airport (VNY) (3 miles)
• Van Nuys FlyAway Bus Terminal to LAX (3.7 miles)

Physicians

• UCLA Health Woodland Hills (4 miles)
• Southern California Orthopedic Institute (4.3 miles)
• Mid-Valley Comprehensive Health Center (5.3 miles)
• Center For Orthopaedic Specialists (5.7 miles)
• Liberty Pacific Advanced Imaging | West Hills (5.7 miles)
• Evan Bachner Evan J Bachner MD (5.7 miles)
• Providence Medical Institute West Hills OB-GYN (5.7 miles)

Theaters

• Regal Sherman Oaks Galleria (4.2 miles)

Hospitals

• Veterans Administration (5.5 miles)

Places of Worship

• Immanuel Bible Church (6.1 miles)