Colonial Estates

Pros

• Kimber is amazing, providing outstanding customer service with an open-door policy and efficient issue resolution.
• The property management and maintenance teams are kind, genuine, and helpful.
• The complex is well kept, quiet, and safe.
• The property feels safe due to bright lighting, keycard access, and video surveillance.
• Maintenance requests are handled promptly, often the same day.
• Kimber and the staff are professional and supportive throughout the leasing and living experience.
• The community hosts cute events for holidays and fosters a welcoming atmosphere.
• The apartments are nicely maintained and have seen updates like fresh paint, new floors, and appliances.
• The pool area has been revamped, improving summer comfort.
• The location is convenient, with easy access to groceries, services, and amenities.
• Online rent payment is easy, contributing to a smooth experience.
• Residents describe the area as friendly and the building as a pleasant place to live.

Cons

• The process was unclear and not transparently explained, with a third-party approval step that left the applicant confused.
• The applicant was denied based on financial criteria and told there was no alternative path forward.
• The administrative fee was non-refundable, even though the process wasn't clearly explained upfront.
• The property was described as outdated and lacking essential amenities like a washer and dryer.
• A visitor reported vulgar catcalling near the parking area, creating safety concerns for women living alone.
• Several reviews mention security and safety concerns, including dark areas, inadequate lighting, and potholes in the exit road.
• A reviewer claimed rent increases after the first lease and deposit withholding, implying unfair practices.

Review

Taken together, the reviews about Colonial Estates tell a story of a community with a lot of heart and ongoing improvements, alongside some frustrating and confusing experiences that can color a prospective renter's first impression. On one hand, there are clear accounts of a process that feels opaque and, in at least one case, unfairly restrictive. On the other hand, a substantial number of residents describe a well-kept property with responsive staff, a welcoming atmosphere, strong security measures, and a sense of community that makes the place feel like home.

The most negative notes focus on the initial screening and application experience. One reviewer described an interaction with a leasing representative who seemed friendly, followed by a payment of an administrative fee, only to be told later that approval depended on a third-party system that had not been clearly explained upfront. The reviewer was ultimately denied based on financial criteria and, when asking if there was any alternative route forward, was told there wasn't. The same person requested a refund of the administrative fee, only to be told it was non-refundable. This sequence left them feeling that the process lacked transparency and don't-waste-your-money clarity. They also noted that the property itself appeared outdated and did not include in-unit washer and dryer facilities, which compounded the impression of a less modern rental experience.

The same reviewer warns future applicants to fully understand the process, policies, and fees before applying, because the money may not be returned even after a denial. The emphasis is on transparency and fairness in the application procedure, as opposed to the overall quality of the property itself. In this case, the disappointment centers not on the people who live there now, but on the perceived lack of upfront information and the punitive-feeling outcome of the denial and fee, a combination that sticks with readers as a cautionary note.

Against that cautious backdrop, a large swath of residents speak very highly of Colonial Estates, especially of the on-site management team and the maintenance crew. Across many reviews, Kimber emerges as a singular standout: described repeatedly as the best property manager imaginable, with an open-door policy, easy accessibility, and a knack for taking concerns seriously and acting on them quickly. Several renters emphasize Kimber's professionalism, responsiveness, and the sense that they are genuinely cared for, with phrases like "open door office," "easy to talk to," and "superb customer service." Maintenance is frequently highlighted as prompt and reliable, with several tenants noting same-day responses and fixes.

The property's physical upkeep and safety features are also frequently praised. Reviewers consistently describe Colonial Estates as well kept and quiet, with a secure feel thanks to keycard access and video surveillance. A number of residents mention the sense of safety that comes from good lighting and a well-monitored property, which alleviates concerns about walking at night or coming home after dark. The community vibe is another recurring theme: residents speak warmly of kind neighbors, well-maintained common areas, and a calendar of holiday and community events that contribute to a welcoming atmosphere.

Several reviews call out specific improvements and amenities that add to the appeal. Security updates - such as key fob access and surveillance - are noted as comforting enhancements. A pool renovation is mentioned as making summer more tolerable, and some residents point to ongoing upgrades in units themselves, such as fresh paint, new floors, and updated appliances. Residents consistently highlight the property's convenient location: close to groceries, car services, Walmart, restaurants, and easy access to major roads, all within a quiet cul-de-sac. The ease of rent payment online and the generally affordable pricing also crop up as positive factors in the overall experience.

In-depth anecdotes reveal the personal side of living at Colonial Estates. Several residents speak of long-tenured stays - some around two or three years - describing the community as calm, friendly, and supportive. Compliments about Kimber are repeated alongside admiration for the work of other staff, such as maintenance technician Robert, who is credited with timely repairs and reliable service. The positive experiences are not limited to day-to-day repairs; some reviews mention a strong sense of security and ongoing improvements that keep the property feeling modern and cared for. One reviewer notes a harassment incident by visitors that management took seriously, underscoring that the property's leadership is attentive to safety concerns and willing to act.

There are also cautious reminders from longtime residents and recent movers alike. Several readers point to potential drawbacks to consider: potholes on the exit road, occasional smells or other nuisance factors in common areas, and the absence of security in at least one negative account. There is also practical guidance from a 2024 move-out note, urging future tenants to verify shower handles, windows for leaks, and the functional water shut-off before signing a lease. A separate post-move review cautions readers to inspect their units for any ongoing issues, as even strong management cannot guarantee a spotless turnover experience. And while some reviews celebrate the community, others mention concerns about deposits and rent increases tied to the end of leases.

In sum, Colonial Estates presents a dual reality. For many residents, it is a reliable, well-maintained place to live with a supportive, responsive staff led by Kimber, a secure environment, and a community feel that makes the property feel like home. For others, the initial application process and associated fees, plus some inconsistent experiences regarding unit amenities and move-out practices, serve as a warning to proceed with careful diligence - ask explicit questions, tour the property, verify current policies, and confirm what is included in the unit. If you decide to make Colonial Estates your home, there is ample positive testimony about the people who manage it and the improvements that continue to roll in, alongside clear reminders to stay informed and proactive about policies, safety, and upfront costs.

This part of Cordova, Tennessee offers a diverse selection of dining options ranging from Mexican cuisine at Meccal Mexican Restaurant to Japanese dishes at Red Koi Japanese Cuisine. For those who prefer familiar favorites, Chick-Fil-A and The Cheesecake Factory are also nearby. There are several pharmacies within a few miles, making access to medications convenient. Additionally, there are numerous cafes for socializing and enjoying a cup of coffee. The availability of various healthcare providers such as Woodbury Michael J MD and Pediatric Physicians PC ensure that medical needs can be easily met. Nearby hospitals include Methodist Healthcare North, providing peace of mind in case of emergencies. Residents can enjoy entertainment at Malco Stage Cinema Grill or take in nature at Davies Plantation Park or Shelby Farms Park. Places of worship like Advent Presbyterian Church offer spiritual support for those seeking a community connection. Overall, this area provides a range of amenities and services perfect for seniors looking for a comfortable and convenient living environment in Cordova, Tennessee.

Restaurants

• Meccal Mexican Restaurant (0.6 miles)
• Slim Chickens (0.7 miles)
• McAlister's Deli (0.8 miles)
• Red Koi Japanese Cuisine (0.9 miles)
• The Cheesecake Factory (1 miles)
• Chick-Fil-A (1.3 miles)
• Rock N Roll Sushi Wolfchase (1.4 miles)

Pharmacies

• Walgreens (0.7 miles)
• Walgreens (1.6 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (2.2 miles)
• Walgreens (2.3 miles)
• Walgreens (3.3 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (3.8 miles)
• Kroger Pharmacy (3.9 miles)

Cafes

• Starbucks (1.2 miles)
• Starbucks (1.5 miles)
• Starbucks (2.6 miles)

Physicians

• Woodbury Michael J MD (1.3 miles)
• Pediatrics East (1.6 miles)
• East Memphis Orthopedic Group (1.9 miles)
• Cordova Medical Clinic (2.2 miles)
• Gerard Nicholas DMD (2.2 miles)
• Norwood Family Eye Care (2.6 miles)
• Pediatric Physicians PC (2.8 miles)

Hospitals

• BioLife Plasma Services (1.7 miles)
• Methodist Surgery Center (6.2 miles)
• Lebonheur Outpatient Center-East (6.8 miles)
• Methodist Healthcare North (7.3 miles)

Theaters

• Malco Stage Cinema Grill (1.7 miles)

Parks

• Davies Plantation Park (1.8 miles)
• Shelby Farms Park (5.4 miles)
• Hinton Park (5.6 miles)
• Freeman Park (5.7 miles)
• Cameron Brown Park (6.9 miles)

Places of Worship

• Advent Presbyterian Church (2 miles)
• Hope Presbyterian Church (4.6 miles)
• Grace Evangelical Church (7.3 miles)