Marquette Companies has reopened the doors to The Maxwell, a multifamily community in the Detroit suburb of Romulus, Mich. Marquette Companies has completed a substantial renovation of the 312-unit community, revitalizing the property and improving neighborhood safety.
“There was a large amount of deferred maintenance that needed to be addressed,” Marquette’s Chief Financial Officer Trevor Ryan told Multi-Housing News. “The property in general needed a lot of capital improvement work to be attractive again. We created a structured plan that allowed us to systematically approach the needs of the community. We have made efforts to move as quickly as possible, with several projects moving forward at the same time. We had a team of people working with the management team to achieve this efficiently.”
The $8 million renovation featured property updates that included new and repaired hardscaping, pool and deck restoration, repaired and upgraded building interiors, replacement of windows and the incorporation of a dog park. A renovated fitness center, updated finishes in the residents’ lounge and the installation of a catering kitchen and new leasing office were among the upgrades to the community clubhouse. Unit renovations included new kitchen cabinetry and countertops and the installation of black appliances. Common areas of the property’s 26 buildings were also renovated.
Flight crews
Originally known as Morgan Manor upon its completion in 1972, the community proved a favorite choice with pilots and flight attendant crews based at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. The property offers studio and one- and two-bedroom apartments ranging in size from 650 to 850 square feet.
“Marquette Management emphasizes customer service and community engagement, so we have also intentionally focused on this aspect to improve the sense of community while making these changes,” said Jim Cunningham, chief operating officer at Marquette.
“Ensuring the correct community policies are in place and being persistent on our enforcement has also helped get the resident base working as community ambassadors because they like the progress they see. New customers can feel that energy as well. Partnering with the city of Romulus has been imperative to our progress. Our goals are aligned in that we are both invested in capturing the potential the city offers.” A Detroit multifamily report in April found the Motor City’s fundamentals in recovery mode.
