Martin Street Plaza Apartments in Atlanta, GA: What to Know Before You Rent
If you’re searching for Martin Street Plaza Apartments in Atlanta, GA, you’re likely looking for an affordable, in-town apartment community close to downtown and key job centers. This guide walks through what Atlantans usually want to know about this type of property: location, transportation, nearby amenities, rent expectations, safety and inspections, and how to actually tour or apply.
Because apartment details can change, treat this as a practical overview of what to look for and verify when you contact the property or visit in person.
Where Martin Street Plaza Fits in Atlanta
While specific leasing details can vary by building and management company, a community called Martin Street Plaza Apartments in Atlanta will typically be:
- In or near southeast Atlanta, often close to downtown and I-20
- Within reach of major job centers like Downtown, Midtown, and the Capitol complex
- Near neighborhoods with a mix of long-time residents, historic homes, and older multifamily properties
For many renters in Atlanta, this kind of location means:
- Easier commutes to downtown offices
- Access to MARTA bus routes and possibly nearby rail stations
- Proximity to government offices, schools, and local businesses
Before you decide, it’s worth spending time in the area at different times of day to get a feel for traffic, noise, and overall environment.
Typical Apartment Features to Expect
Every complex is different, but communities like Martin Street Plaza Apartments in Atlanta often offer:
Inside the units:
- 1- and 2-bedroom floor plans (sometimes 3-bedroom options)
- Basic kitchen appliances (refrigerator, stove/oven; sometimes a dishwasher)
- Central heating and air or individual wall/window units
- Standard finishes, often not luxury, but generally functional
In the community:
- On-site leasing office or property manager (hours may be limited)
- Laundry facilities on-site or nearby laundromats
- Surface parking (assigned or first-come, first-served)
- Outdoor common areas or courtyards
If you’re comparing options across Atlanta, ask specifically about:
- In-unit laundry vs. shared laundry
- Utilities included (water, trash, gas, pest control, etc.)
- Pet policy (breed/weight restrictions and pet fees)
- Renovated vs. non-renovated units
Rent Levels and Affordability in the Area
Communities like Martin Street Plaza often serve renters looking for more affordable options compared with new luxury buildings in Midtown or along the BeltLine.
When you call or visit, ask:
- What is the current rent range for the floor plan you want?
- Are any units income-restricted or part of an affordable housing program?
- What are the required income and credit criteria?
If affordability is your priority in Atlanta, you may also want to:
Contact the Atlanta Housing Authority
- 230 John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
- Phone: (404) 892-4700
to ask about Housing Choice Vouchers or other programs that could apply at properties like this.
Check with Atlanta Legal Aid or Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation if you have questions about lease terms or your rights as a tenant before signing.
Transportation: Getting Around from Martin Street Plaza
Many renters considering Martin Street Plaza Apartments in Atlanta, GA rely on a mix of driving, MARTA, and walking.
MARTA Access
Depending on the exact address, you may be able to connect to:
- Nearby MARTA bus routes running through southeast Atlanta and into downtown
- Rail service via stations like:
- Garnett Station (Downtown)
- Five Points Station (main transfer hub)
- Georgia State Station (close to government and university buildings)
To plan routes, check:
- Nearest bus stop to the complex
- Frequency of service during rush hour, midday, and weekends
- Whether you can easily reach major job centers without multiple transfers
Driving and Parking
Renters in this part of Atlanta often consider:
- Proximity to I-20, I-75/85 (“the Connector”), and surface streets into downtown
- On-site parking: Is it free, reserved, or controlled-access?
- Street parking rules (time limits, permit requirements, towing zones)
If you work downtown or in Midtown, factor in:
- Rush-hour commute times
- Event traffic when there are games or shows at downtown venues
Nearby Services and Everyday Convenience
Living near central and southeast Atlanta usually means access to:
Groceries and Essentials
Look for:
- Regional grocery chains within a short drive
- Smaller corner markets and discount stores nearby
- Pharmacies for prescriptions and over-the-counter needs
When you tour, ask leasing staff or nearby residents where they do their regular shopping; it’s often more informative than maps alone.
Schools and Childcare
If you have children, you’ll want to check:
- Which Atlanta Public Schools (APS) zoned schools serve the address (elementary, middle, high)
- Nearby early learning centers or after-school programs
- Commute time to any magnet, charter, or private schools your child attends
You can contact Atlanta Public Schools at:
- 130 Trinity Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
- Main line: (404) 802-3500
Ask for school zone information based on the specific street address of Martin Street Plaza Apartments.
Parks, Recreation, and Community Resources
Around this part of Atlanta, residents often use:
- City of Atlanta parks and playgrounds for outdoor time
- Recreation centers for youth programs, fitness classes, and community events
- Public libraries for free Wi-Fi, study spaces, and programs
You can check with:
- City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation
233 Peachtree St NE, Suite 1700, Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (404) 546-6813
for nearby rec centers and programs that might be convenient from Martin Street.
Safety, Inspections, and Tenant Rights
Wherever you rent in Atlanta, it’s important to think about building conditions, code compliance, and your rights as a tenant.
Building Conditions and Code Issues
Before signing a lease at Martin Street Plaza or any similar complex, you can:
- Walk hallways, stairs, and parking lots to check lighting and cleanliness
- Look for signs of water damage, mold, or pest issues in the unit
- Test locks, windows, and smoke detectors
If you suspect serious property maintenance problems after you move in, you can contact:
- City of Atlanta Code Enforcement
- 818 Pollard Blvd SW, Atlanta, GA 30315
- Main: (404) 546-0311
They handle complaints about potential housing code violations in multifamily properties within city limits.
Understanding Your Rights as a Renter in Atlanta
Tenant protections in Georgia are not as extensive as in some states, so it’s wise to:
- Read the lease thoroughly, paying attention to:
- Maintenance responsibilities
- Notice requirements for entry
- Late fees and grace periods
- Renewal and non-renewal terms
- Keep written records (emails or letters) of all repair requests
- Document the unit’s condition with photos or videos when you move in and move out
For advice or disputes, many Atlantans contact:
- Atlanta Legal Aid Society – Atlanta Office
54 Ellis St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (404) 524-5811
They may offer guidance or referrals regarding landlord–tenant issues.
How to Check Availability and Tour the Property
Since management companies and numbers can change, the most reliable next steps for Martin Street Plaza Apartments in Atlanta are:
Look up the exact address and current management company
- Use the property’s on-site signage or local property records.
- Confirm that the name “Martin Street Plaza Apartments” matches the building you’re interested in.
Call or visit the leasing office during posted hours
Ask about:- Current availability and waitlists
- Application process and documents required (ID, pay stubs, employer information)
- Application fee and any additional screening fees
- Expected move-in costs (security deposit, administrative fees, pet deposit)
Schedule an in-person tour
When touring, pay attention to:- Noise levels in the building and neighborhood
- Condition of common areas (stairwells, elevators if any, mailroom)
- How staff respond to questions about maintenance and security
Talk to current residents if possible
Politely ask about:- Response time for repairs
- Parking situation in practice, not just on paper
- Overall satisfaction living there
Quick Comparison Checklist for Martin Street Plaza vs. Other Atlanta Apartments
Use this simple table to evaluate Martin Street Plaza Apartments alongside other options in Atlanta:
| Factor | What to Ask at Martin Street Plaza | What to Compare Across Atlanta |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Rent | Exact rent for your floor plan | Similar size units in nearby neighborhoods |
| Lease Term | 6, 9, or 12+ months available? | Flexibility and renewal options |
| Utilities | What’s included vs. separate | Average monthly cost across other properties |
| Transportation | Nearest bus routes, rail access | Commute time to work/school vs. other areas |
| Parking | Free, reserved, or paid? | Street vs. on-site availability elsewhere |
| Condition | Age and upkeep of building | Renovations or newer construction elsewhere |
| Policies | Pets, guests, noise expectations | Match with your lifestyle needs |
| Safety & Code | Any known repair backlog? | General feel of safety in the area |
Practical Tips Before You Commit
A few Atlanta-specific tips when considering Martin Street Plaza Apartments or similar communities:
- Verify the exact address and neighborhood name. Some properties share similar names; confirming the location prevents confusion.
- Visit at night and on the weekend. Traffic, parking, and noise can feel very different outside weekday office hours.
- Ask about rent increases at renewal. Many Atlanta renters underestimate how much rent can go up after the first lease term.
- Budget for transportation. If MARTA isn’t as convenient as you hoped, factor in rideshares, gas, and parking for work.
- Check for any income-restricted requirements. If units are part of a specific affordable housing program, there may be maximum or minimum income rules.
By working through these steps, you can decide whether Martin Street Plaza Apartments in Atlanta, GA fits your needs—and compare it confidently with other apartment options around the city.
