Simpson Gardens in Lansdowne, PA

Pros

• The reviewer relishes consistency and promptness.

Cons

• The reviewer found the experience arduous.
• The process of securing an established appointment was difficult.
• The scheduled appointment was blatantly disregarded.
• The leasing office agent would not pick up the phone.
• All the effort and information gathered over months were disregarded.
• The reviewer waited more than an hour and left after repeated calls went unanswered.
• People in positions to aid consumers often have a self-aggrandising disposition.
• Nepotism and cronyism played a major part in the decision on the application.

Review

Simpson Gardens in Lansdowne is best suited for seniors who want to stay in a walkable, nearby community and who are prioritizing affordability and practicality over polish in the onboarding process. There is appeal for residents who can tolerate a less predictable leasing flow and who can navigate initial friction to secure a space. Families that place a premium on price and location, and who approach the move-in timeline with built-in flexibility, may find Simpson Gardens a reasonable option. This is not a facility built on high-pressure sales or intense, constant engagement; rather, it presents a liveability choice that depends on patience and problem-solving. For those who need highly consistent scheduling, proactive leasing support, or a clearly mapped move-in plan, alternatives should be considered.

However, the strongest caution comes from experiences that center on administrative friction. Accounts describe real obstacles securing an appointment, especially when weather or scheduling chaos collides with a needed move. A snowstorm proved a pivotal test, with leasing staff reportedly unavailable and communication lapses leaving prospects exasperated and repeatedly delayed. The reviewer who endured this process spent months gathering documents and repeatedly found that information and effort were not respected during the eventual interaction. The impression left is of a system that can function - on its own terms - yet lacks dependable reliability when it matters most, at the front end of a housing decision.

Those attributes cut both ways. On one hand, the 5-star signal suggests that when things align, residents can experience a positive fit - whether in comfort, amenities, or overall environment - enough to justify a favorable regard from at least some occupants. On the other hand, the one-star experience underscores a risk of inconsistent communication and perceived neglect of a serious financial and relocation undertaking. The mismatch between what a family needs - timely, respectful engagement and transparent timelines - and what is reported by some reviewers means this community will not suit everyone. Prospective residents should weigh the possibility of smooth onboarding against the cost of navigating uncertain customer service.

To guard against disappointment, use the visit as a live trial of process. Request a written schedule for the move-in timeline, ask for a direct contact who will handle the entire leasing path, and demand real-world examples of how issues are resolved. Probe the leasing team about appointment availability during busy periods, snow-related disruptions, and the steps taken when information changes. If possible, speak with current residents about their experience with communications and follow-through. Clarity on pricing, what is included, and any required deposits will also help determine whether the apparent affordability aligns with the actual value delivered over time.

For families comfortable with a potential administrative hurdle, Simpson Gardens offers a practical option in a convenient Lansdowne location. The facility's strength, when present, is the alignment of living space with cost, and the potential for a straightforward daily routine once moved in. The caveat is that the move-in experience may require more persistence, planning, and a longer lead time than anticipated. Those who require reliable, proactive onboarding and consistent, personable communication should reserve strong interest for facilities with documented, dependable leasing processes. In short, consider Simpson Gardens if flexibility and value top the list; consider alternatives if reliability and predictability are non-negotiable.

Bottom line: Simpson Gardens serves a niche where location and cost are compelling enough to tolerate a bumpy onboarding. It is not the best choice for families needing guaranteed, prompt engagement from the moment contact is made or for residents who prize a seamless, highly managed move-in. The best approach is a targeted visit with specific questions about leasing timelines, staffing continuity, and the contingency plans for delays. If the answers inspire confidence and a clear, written path emerges, the trade-off may be acceptable. If not, it would be prudent to widen the search to communities known for steadier front-desk responsiveness and a more proactive leasing culture.

Located in Lansdowne, Pennsylvania, this area offers convenient access to transportation options like SEPTA and car rental services for easy travel. Nearby healthcare facilities include Dr Madonna's Family Practice and renowned hospitals like Lankenau Medical Center and the Philadelphia VA Medical Center. Residents can easily access pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens for their medication needs. The neighborhood also boasts a variety of dining options ranging from fast food chains to local eateries like Larry's Steaks and Rosy's Taco Bar. Parks like Ellson Glen Park and Fairmount Park provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, while cafes like Starbucks and Panera Bread offer a cozy spot for socializing or enjoying a cup of coffee. Overall, this area provides a mix of conveniences and amenities that could make it an appealing choice for seniors looking for a vibrant community to call home.

Transportation

• SEPTA: 101/102 Lansdowne Avenue Station (0.9 miles)
• Darby Transportation Center (1.6 miles)
• National Car Rental (4.5 miles)
• Hertz Rent A Car (4.6 miles)
• Dollar Rent A Car (4.6 miles)
• Terminal F (4.6 miles)
• Baggage Claim E (4.6 miles)

Physicians

• Dr Madonna's Family Practice (0.9 miles)
• CHOP Buerger Center for Advanced Pediatric Care - Raymond G. Perelman Campus (4.2 miles)
• Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (4.2 miles)

Pharmacies

• CVS Pharmacy (1.5 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (2.2 miles)
• Walgreens (2.3 miles)
• Rite Aid (2.4 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (2.7 miles)
• Rite Aid (3.1 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (3.1 miles)

Parks

• Ellson Glen Park (2.1 miles)
• Fairmount Park (4.6 miles)
• Schuylkill River Park (4.9 miles)
• Rittenhouse Square (5.4 miles)
• FDR Park (5.7 miles)
• Christopher Columbus Park Dog Run (5.8 miles)

Restaurants

• Wendy's (3.2 miles)
• McDonald's (3.2 miles)
• Larry's Steaks (4.3 miles)
• Jack McShea's (4.6 miles)
• Pizza Hut (4.8 miles)
• Cracker Barrel (5 miles)
• Rosy's Taco Bar (5.1 miles)

Hospitals

• Lankenau Medical Center (3.3 miles)
• Philadelphia VA Medical Center (3.9 miles)
• Veterans Administration Community Living Center (4 miles)
• The Pavilion (4.3 miles)

Cafes

• Starbucks (4.3 miles)
• Starbucks (5 miles)
• La Colombe Torrefaction (5.4 miles)
• 320 Market Cafe (5.5 miles)
• Starbucks (5.6 miles)
• Elixr Coffee (5.7 miles)
• Panera Bread (5.7 miles)