The Prescott Apartments in South Austin: My Honest Review + Insider Tips

You’ve seen The Prescott Apartments pop up in your South Congress apartment search. The sleek photos, the resort-style pool, that “luxury living” promise. Now you’re wondering if it’s actually worth the rent or just good marketing. I get it. Sorting through a dozen similar-looking properties in South Austin gets exhausting fast, especially when every listing feels like it’s hiding something.

Here’s the thing: I’ve helped dozens of clients evaluate The Prescott since it opened in 2022, and I’ve dug into the details that leasing offices conveniently leave off their websites. This guide covers everything from real pricing (yes, including those fees they spring on you at the end) to honest pros and cons based on what residents actually experience living there.

By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly whether The Prescott fits your lifestyle and budget, or if one of the nearby alternatives makes more sense. Let’s get into it.


The Prescott at a Glance: What You Need to Know Before Touring

The Prescott is a 348-unit luxury apartment community sitting at 8200 S Congress Ave in Austin’s 78745 zip code. Richman Signature (part of Richman Group) built it in 2022, and they offer everything from studios to 3-bedroom layouts ranging from $1,049 to $3,825 per month. Right now, you’ll typically find specials like 8-10 weeks free on select units, though these change weekly so always double-check before you get too excited.

Here’s the quick snapshot:

DetailInfo
Address8200 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745
Units348 units across 4 stories
Year Built2022
ManagementRichman Signature
Rent Range$1,049 to $3,825/month
Sizes539 to 1,327 sq ft
Pet PolicyDogs & cats allowed ($300 deposit + $25/month per pet)
ParkingFree surface, $150/month garage, $40/month carport
Resident Rating4.2/5 stars (270+ reviews on ApartmentRatings)

So what does that 4.2 rating actually mean? For a property built in 2022, it’s solid but not exceptional. Most gripes center on noise traveling between units and the occasional management shuffle. Pretty common stuff at newer luxury builds that are still working out the kinks. The good news? Residents consistently praise the amenities, how fast maintenance responds, and the overall resort-like atmosphere.

One thing I tell every client: that $1,049 starting price? It’s for studios, and availability at that rate is slim. If you’re hunting for a 1-bedroom, budget $1,400-$1,600 after specials. Two-bedroom seekers should realistically expect $1,800-$2,200 in net effective rent.


The Prescott Floor Plans and Pricing: Real Numbers After Move-In Specials

Let’s cut through the marketing fluff and talk real numbers. The Prescott has 10 distinct floor plans, but what actually matters is what you’ll pay each month once specials are factored in.

Here’s the current breakdown (prices bounce around, so verify before you tour):

Concession: 8 weeks free on 13-month lease Multiplier: 0.8462 (8 weeks ≈ 2 months; 11 paid months ÷ 13 months)

Formula: Net Effective = Base Rent × 0.8462

Studios

Floor PlanSq FtBase RentNet Effective*
E1539$1,049 to $1,299~$888 – $1,099

Studios here are compact but they work. At 539 square feet, you’re getting a functional layout with full-size appliances and in-unit washer/dryer, which is kind of a big deal at this price point. Fair warning though: these go fast. If you find one available, don’t sit on it for a week.

1-Bedrooms

Floor PlanSq FtBase RentNet Effective*
A1701$1,205 to $1,565~1,020 – $1,324
A2741$1,345 to $1,620~$1,138 – $1,371
A3762$1,400 to $1,695~$1,185 – $1,434

My pick? The A2. You get an extra 40 square feet over the A1, the layout flows way better for furniture, and the price jump is minimal. The A3 tacks on a bit more space but often faces less desirable views depending on which building you’re in.

2-Bedrooms

Floor PlanSq FtBase RentNet Effective*
B11,066$2,146 to $2,445~$1,816 – $2,069
B21,124$2,250 to $2,595~$1,904 – $2,196
B31,083$1,759 to $2,465~$1,489 – $2,086
B41,165$1,884 to $2,535~$1,594 – $2,145

Roommates or couples needing that second bedroom should look hard at the B3. It’s slightly smaller than the B1, but pricing can be significantly lower depending on where it sits in the property.

3-Bedrooms

Floor PlanSq FtBase RentNet Effective*
C11,327$2,099 to $3,825~$1,776 – $3,237
C21,327$2,684 to $3,420~$2,272 – $2,894

Three-bedrooms here are genuinely spacious at 1,327 square feet. That massive price range? It reflects unit location. Corner units with killer views command premium pricing. If you’re flexible on exact positioning, you can score some real savings.

*Net effective rent assumes 8 weeks free on a 13-month lease. Your actual savings depend on current specials. GET THIS IN WRITING before you sign anything.

The Fees Nobody Mentions Until You’re Ready to Apply

Here’s where apartment hunting gets annoying. That advertised rent doesn’t include:

One-Time Fees:

  • Application fee: ~$50-75 per applicant
  • Admin fee: ~$150-250
  • Pet deposit: $300 per pet (may be partially refundable)

Monthly Fees:

  • Pet rent: $25/month per pet
  • Covered parking: $40/month (carport) or $150/month (garage)
  • Valet trash: ~$30-35/month (usually mandatory)
  • Pest control fee: ~$5-10/month
  • Package locker fee: ~$5-10/month (some communities bundle this)

Pro tip: Before your tour, ask the leasing office for a complete fee breakdown in writing. Add up your base rent plus all monthly fees to see your true housing cost. A $1,500 apartment can turn into $1,600+ real quick when you stack pet rent, parking, and mandatory fees on top.

Questions to Ask About Pricing

  1. “What’s the net effective rent on this unit with current specials?”
  2. “Can I prorate the free weeks across my entire lease instead of upfront?”
  3. “Are there any preferred employer discounts I might qualify for?”
  4. “Which fees are mandatory vs. optional?”
  5. “What’s the typical renewal increase percentage?”

That last one matters more than most people realize. A killer move-in special means nothing if your rent jumps 15% at renewal. Ask about their typical renewal terms and (you know what I’m going to say) get it in writing.


The Prescott Amenities: What’s Worth It and What’s Just Marketing

Every luxury apartment in Austin promises “resort-style living.” I’ve toured enough properties to know that phrase can mean anything from an actual oasis to a sad pool with two lounge chairs. So let’s break down what The Prescott actually delivers, and what’s mostly just brochure fodder.

Amenities That Actually Stand Out

The Pet Spa. This one’s legitimately nice. We’re not talking about a hose in a closet. It’s a proper grooming station with professional-grade tubs, dryers, and grooming tools. Only about 10% of Austin apartments have anything like this. If you’ve got a dog that needs regular baths (looking at you, mud-loving retrievers), this amenity alone could save you $40-60 per month in grooming costs.

Fenced Private Yards. Select ground-floor units come with their own fenced yards. These are gold if you’re a dog owner tired of the dreaded 2 AM leash walk. Availability’s limited though, so mention this early if it’s a priority.

EV Charging Stations. Multiple Level 2 chargers in the parking area. Not every spot has one, but there’s enough that residents rarely report waiting. If you drive electric, this is genuinely convenient.

The Mirror Fitness Studio. The fitness center includes Mirror interactive workout technology, a $1,500+ system you’d pay for separately at home. The gym itself is well-equipped: free weights, cardio machines, dedicated yoga and stretching area. Not bad.

Rentable Private Offices. The tech center has bookable private offices with videoconferencing setups. For remote workers who occasionally need a professional backdrop for client calls, this actually comes in handy. I’ve seen way too many “business centers” that are just a printer shoved in a hallway.

Amenities That Are Nice But Nothing Special

Resort-Style Pool. It’s attractive with solid lounge seating and a summer kitchen for grilling. That said, most Class A properties in this price range have similar setups. Nice to have, but it won’t sway your decision.

Garden Courtyard with Hammocks. Genuinely pleasant common space with fire pits and hammock areas. Great for unwinding, though you probably won’t use it as much as you think during Austin summers. (It gets hot out there.)

Game Room/Clubhouse. Standard shuffleboard, TV lounge, demonstration kitchen. Fine for hosting a small gathering, but nothing that’ll blow you away.

In-Unit Features Worth Noting

Units at The Prescott include:

  • Vinyl plank flooring throughout (no carpet except bedrooms in some units)
  • Granite countertops
  • Stainless steel appliances
  • Front-load washer and dryer in-unit (this matters!)
  • Ceiling fans in living areas and bedrooms
  • USB outlets at kitchen and desk areas
  • Walk-in closets in most floor plans

That in-unit washer/dryer is the real win here. At this price point in South Austin, you’d be surprised how many “luxury” apartments still make you schlep to shared laundry facilities or charge extra for in-unit machines. The Prescott includes them standard.

What’s Missing or Underwhelming

Let me be straight about a few things:

Sound insulation could be better. This is the most consistent complaint I hear. The building uses wood-frame construction (common for 4-story properties), and residents report hearing neighbors: footsteps from above, dogs barking, the occasional too-loud conversation. If you’re noise-sensitive, request a top-floor unit or ask about building placement away from high-traffic areas.

The “South Congress” branding is generous. More on this in the location section, but don’t expect to walk to the iconic SoCo strip. It’s a 10+ minute drive to the trendy part of South Congress.

Guest parking is limited. If you host visitors frequently, they may struggle to find spots during peak evening hours. Something to keep in mind.

How The Prescott Amenities Compare

AmenityThe PrescottWindsor South CongressLenox SoCoMonterey Ranch
Pet Spa
Private YardsSelect unitsSelect units
EV ChargingLimited
In-Unit W/DStandardStandardStandardMost units
Coworking Space✓ (bookable)BasicBasic
Pool1 resort-style1 resort-style1 standard2 pools

For pet owners and remote workers, The Prescott’s amenity package genuinely beats most nearby alternatives. If those priorities don’t apply to you, the differences become a lot less significant.


What It’s Really Like Living at The Prescott: Resident Reviews Decoded

Online reviews are tricky. Happy residents almost never leave them, angry residents write novels, and the truth usually lives somewhere in the middle. I’ve read through hundreds of reviews for The Prescott and talked to actual residents. Here’s what the patterns reveal.

The Numbers in Context

The Prescott sits at 4.2 out of 5 stars on ApartmentRatings with 270+ reviews. For a property that opened in 2022, that’s solid but not exceptional. Here’s how I read apartment ratings after doing this for years:

  • 4.5+ stars: Exceptional property, usually smaller or boutique with really hands-on management
  • 4.0-4.4 stars: Good property with some consistent issues worth knowing about
  • 3.5-3.9 stars: Significant problems; tread carefully
  • Below 3.5: Something’s systemically wrong

The Prescott’s 4.2 tells me it’s a good property where most residents are satisfied, but there are recurring themes worth understanding before you sign.

What Residents Keep Praising

Maintenance response times. This shows up again and again. Multiple reviews specifically call out a maintenance tech named Justin for fast, quality work. When individual staff members get praised by name across dozens of reviews? That’s a real signal. The maintenance team seems to be a genuine strength.

The amenities actually deliver. Residents confirm the pet spa stays well-maintained, the pool area is clean, and the gym equipment actually works. Sounds basic, I know. But I’ve toured “luxury” properties where half the treadmills are busted and the pool has algae issues. The Prescott keeps their stuff nice.

Move-in experience. The leasing process gets solid marks for being organized and communicative. Several reviews mention smooth move-ins with units cleaned and ready to go. Basic stuff, sure, but move-in horror stories are shockingly common at other places.

The resort vibe is real. People genuinely enjoy the grounds. The courtyard, pool area, overall aesthetic: consistent compliments across the board. If “coming home to a nice environment” matters to you, The Prescott delivers.

What Residents Keep Complaining About

Noise traveling between units. This is the #1 complaint, and you should take it seriously. The Prescott uses wood-frame construction (standard for 4-story buildings in Texas), which means sound travels. Residents report hearing:

  • Footsteps from upstairs neighbors
  • Dogs barking in adjacent units
  • Bass from music or TV
  • General “neighbor living their life” sounds

How to deal with this: Request a top-floor unit, which eliminates upstairs noise entirely. Ask about building placement; units near the pool or dog park get more ambient noise. Corner units share fewer walls. If noise sensitivity is a true dealbreaker for you, concrete high-rises downtown might suit you better, though you’ll pay a lot more.

Management turnover. Several reviews mention inconsistent experiences depending on which manager is working. This is common at properties managed by big companies like Richman Group, where staff rotates and quality varies. The fix? Document everything in writing. Get all promises in your lease. Don’t rely on verbal agreements.

Gate and security issues. The gated entry gets mixed feedback. Some residents say gates get broken or left open; others say it works fine. This seems to vary by time period, suggesting maintenance responsiveness to gate problems fluctuates.

Pest concerns (occasional). A handful of reviews mention roach or ant sightings. In Texas, some pest activity is basically unavoidable, but frequency matters. This doesn’t look like a widespread infestation, more like occasional sightings that get addressed when reported. Still, ask the leasing office about their pest control schedule.

Reading Between the Lines

Here’s something most apartment guides won’t mention: the timing of reviews matters.

Properties go through rough patches. Maybe a great manager leaves, or maintenance backlogs pile up, or a construction defect gets discovered. If you see clusters of negative reviews from the same 2-3 month window followed by improvement, that’s different from consistently negative feedback year-round.

At The Prescott, noise complaints stay consistent across all time periods. That’s a structural issue that won’t change. Management complaints cluster in certain periods, suggesting staff turnover created temporary dips. Amenity praise runs consistently throughout, confirming the property maintains their common areas well.

My read: The Prescott is a solid property where you’ll enjoy the amenities and common areas, maintenance will be responsive, but you need to be smart about unit selection to minimize noise headaches. Not perfect, but genuinely good.

The Unit Selection Strategy Most Renters Miss

Here’s insider knowledge that can make or break your experience at The Prescott, or really any apartment:

Top floor, corner unit, away from amenities. That’s the formula.

  • Top floor: Eliminates 90% of noise complaints (no footsteps above)
  • Corner unit: Shares only one wall instead of two
  • Away from amenities: Pool, dog park, parking garage entrances, trash compactors all generate noise

When you tour, specifically ask: “Which buildings are quietest?” Leasing agents know. Buildings furthest from South Congress Ave get less traffic noise. Buildings away from the pool stay quieter on summer weekends.

Yes, the “best” units often cost a bit more or have less exciting views. That trade-off is usually worth it. An extra $50/month for a top-floor corner unit buys you peace and quiet for your entire lease.


The Prescott’s Location: South Congress Living Without the South Congress Price Tag

Let’s address the elephant in the room: The Prescott markets itself as a South Congress apartment, but 8200 S Congress Ave isn’t the iconic SoCo strip you’re probably picturing.

The trendy part of South Congress (the vintage shops, the “I Love You So Much” mural, Jo’s Coffee, Güero’s Taco Bar, Home Slice Pizza) is all around 1200-1800 South Congress. The Prescott sits at 8200 South Congress, roughly 6 miles further south.

This isn’t a knock on the property. It’s just important context so you understand what you’re actually signing up for.

8200 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745, USA

What’s Actually Nearby

The immediate area around 8200 S Congress is Far South Austin, closer to Southpark Meadows than downtown SoCo. Here’s what you’ll find within 5-10 minutes:

Shopping & Daily Needs:

  • Southpark Meadows shopping center (Target, Best Buy, Ross, tons of restaurants)
  • H-E-B grocery store
  • Costco (Southpark Meadows location)
  • Home Depot

Food & Drink:

  • Torchy’s Tacos (multiple locations nearby)
  • Last Stand Brewing Company
  • Pluckers Wing Bar
  • Chili’s, Olive Garden, and the usual chain suspects
  • Several solid taco trucks and local spots along the S Congress corridor

Getting Outside:

This is suburban Austin, not urban Austin. You’ll drive everywhere. The upside? More space, lower rent than properties actually on SoCo, easier parking, less tourist foot traffic in your neighborhood.

Real Commute Times (Not the Optimistic Ones)

I always tell clients to test their commute before signing anything. Austin traffic can turn a “15-minute drive” into 45 minutes during rush hour. Here’s what to realistically expect from The Prescott:

DestinationOff-PeakRush Hour (7-9 AM / 4-7 PM)
Downtown Austin12-15 min25-40 min
UT Austin Campus15-20 min30-45 min
Tesla Gigafactory15 min20-25 min
Austin-Bergstrom Airport20-25 min25-35 min
The Domain (North Austin)25-30 min45-60+ min
Samsung Austin Semiconductor20 min30-40 min
Apple Campus (North Austin)25-30 min45-60+ min

The Tesla commute is the sweet spot. If you work at Giga Texas, The Prescott’s location makes serious sense. You’re going against traffic in both directions, looking at a legitimately short commute.

For downtown or UT commuters, the drive is manageable but nothing special. You’re not saving much time compared to properties further north at similar rent.

For North Austin tech workers (Apple, The Domain, Samsung)? This location adds real drive time. Unless you’re specifically drawn to South Austin vibes, properties around Parmer Lane or North Lamar would cut your commute significantly.

Walk Score Reality Check

The Prescott has a Walk Score of 42, which WalkScore.com calls “Car-Dependent.” Transit Score is 41, Bike Score is 48.

What this means for your actual daily life:

  • You need a car. Full stop. Not optional.
  • Public transit exists (Cap Metro bus routes) but isn’t practical for most trips
  • Biking works for recreation on nearby trails, but not for errands or getting to work
  • The closest walkable stuff? A few restaurants and the gas station

If walkability matters to you (if you want to stroll to coffee, grab dinner without driving, live car-light) The Prescott isn’t your place. Look at East Austin, Mueller, or downtown instead.

If you’re fine driving everywhere (like most Austinites, honestly), the car-dependent score is basically irrelevant.

The Neighborhood Vibe

Far South Austin feels different than central Austin. It’s more residential, more families, more Texas and less “Keep Austin Weird.” The area’s growing fast with new development, but it doesn’t have the established neighborhood character of Hyde Park, Bouldin Creek, or East Austin yet.

What you get: Newer construction, bigger apartments for the money, easy parking, proximity to outdoor recreation, quieter residential feel.

What you don’t get: Walkable urban lifestyle, trendy bars and restaurants on your doorstep, that Austin “vibe” that drew a lot of people here, quick access to live music venues.

For some renters, that trade-off is perfect. For others, it defeats the whole purpose of moving to Austin. Be honest with yourself about which camp you’re in.

Schools in the Area (If That Matters)

The Prescott is zoned for Austin ISD:

  • Elementary: Williams Elementary School
  • Middle: Bedichek Middle School
  • High School: Crockett High School

School zoning can change, so verify directly with Austin ISD before making decisions based on schools. Their online School Finder tool lets you check zoning by address.


Should You Rent at The Prescott? Here’s Who Thrives Here

After touring 500+ Austin apartments and helping hundreds of renters find their place, I’ve learned there’s no “best” apartment, only the best apartment for you. The Prescott is genuinely excellent for certain people and genuinely wrong for others. Let me be direct about which camp you’re in.

The Prescott Is Ideal For:

Remote workers who want resort-style daily life. If you work from home and your apartment basically IS your lifestyle, The Prescott delivers. Bookable private offices, solid WiFi, courtyard spaces for laptop work, fitness amenities. You’re not just renting a unit, you’re renting a work-from-home campus. I’ve had clients who used to rent cheap apartments and spend $200/month on coworking spaces. Here, that’s built in.

Dog owners, especially active ones. Pet spa, fenced private yards (select units), on-site dog park, plus easy access to Onion Creek trails and McKinney Falls? This is one of the better dog-owner setups in South Austin. I’ve toured places where “pet-friendly” really means “we’ll tolerate your pet for extra fees.” The Prescott genuinely caters to pet owners. If your dog is basically your roommate, this matters.

Young professionals prioritizing amenities over address. If your social life doesn’t depend on walking to bars, and you’d rather have a nice pool and gym than a trendy zip code, The Prescott gives you more luxury per dollar than properties closer to downtown. You’re trading “cool address” for “actually nice place to live.” For a lot of renters in their late 20s and 30s, that’s the right trade.

Tesla/Giga Texas employees. Mentioned it already, worth saying again. The commute from here to Tesla’s Austin facility is legitimately easy: 15 minutes against traffic. If you work at Giga Texas and want a nice apartment without paying Austin premium prices, The Prescott should be on your list.

People escaping Austin’s rental chaos. The 78745 zip code doesn’t have the same frenzied competition as 78704, 78702, or downtown. You’ll get more time to decide, more negotiating leverage, less pressure to sign a look-and-lease special within 24 hours. If Austin’s competitive rental market has burned you before, Far South Austin offers breathing room.

The Prescott Is NOT Right For:

Noise-sensitive renters who can’t get a top-floor unit. I need to be blunt. If you work nights and sleep during the day, if you’re highly sensitive to ambient noise, or if “hearing my neighbors exist” is a dealbreaker (and top-floor units aren’t available or affordable) skip this property. Wood-frame construction means you WILL hear neighbors. That’s not a flaw; it’s how these buildings work. Concrete high-rises are quieter, but they cost more.

Anyone expecting walkable South Congress lifestyle. If you moved to Austin for the “Keep Austin Weird” vibe, the live music, the food trucks, spontaneous Tuesday night adventures: The Prescott’s location won’t deliver. You’re in suburban Austin. You’ll drive to the fun stuff. For some people that’s fine. For others, it defeats the whole purpose. Be honest about which one you are.

Budget-conscious renters trying to minimize total cost. This is Class A luxury, and even with specials, you’re paying luxury prices. If you’re trying to stay under $1,200/month for a 1-bedroom, or stretching to afford rent, there are better values. Properties a few years older in the same area offer similar locations at 15-20% lower rent. Luxury amenities are nice, but not if they cause financial stress.

Anyone without reliable personal transportation. Said this in the location section, saying it again: you cannot live at The Prescott without a car. That 42 Walk Score isn’t a suggestion, it’s reality. If you’re car-free by choice or circumstance, look at East Riverside, Mueller, or downtown.

The Lifestyle Fit Questions to Ask Yourself

Before you tour, answer these honestly:

  1. Do I actually use apartment amenities? If you’ve never touched a pool or gym at previous apartments, you’re paying for stuff you’ll ignore. A cheaper property might serve you better.
  2. How often do guests need parking? Limited visitor spots could create friction if you host friends or family a lot.
  3. What time do I wake up on weekends? Top-floor units matter less if you’re naturally up early. They matter a lot if you sleep until 10 AM and your upstairs neighbor hits the gym at 6.
  4. Is my social life location-dependent? If your friends are in North Austin or you go out downtown multiple times a week, adding 20-30 minutes each direction gets old.
  5. How long am I staying? If you’re signing 12 months while you figure Austin out, The Prescott makes a comfortable landing pad. If you’re putting down roots for 3+ years, you might care more about neighborhood character than amenities.

What To Do If The Prescott Isn’t Right

Read this far and realized it’s not your match? Here are my quick redirects:

Want similar amenities but closer to downtown? Check out Windsor South Congress or The Martingale. You’ll pay more, but you’re actually in South Austin rather than Far South Austin.

Want the Far South location but lower rent? Monterey Ranch and Southpark Meadows-area properties offer similar commutes at lower price points. You’ll sacrifice some amenity polish.

Want walkable Austin lifestyle? East Riverside, Mueller, and downtown are your targets. Budget 20-40% more, but you’ll get the urban experience.

Have credit or rental history concerns? The Prescott uses standard screening. If approval worries you, reach out. I work with properties across Austin that have more flexible requirements, and I can tell you upfront where you’re likely to get approved.


My Bottom Line on The Prescott Apartments

The Prescott isn’t trying to be everything to everyone, and that’s actually its strength. It’s a well-maintained, amenity-rich property in Far South Austin that delivers genuine value for remote workers, pet owners, and renters who prioritize their living space over a trendy address. It’s not the iconic South Congress experience the marketing suggests, but it’s a legitimately nice place to live if the location fits your life.

Here’s what matters most: request a top-floor corner unit to minimize noise, calculate your true monthly cost including all fees before you commit, and get every special and promise in writing on your lease (not just in an email). Those three moves will determine whether you love living at The Prescott or regret it.

You now have more information about this property than most residents had when they signed. Use it. Tour with specific questions, negotiate from a position of knowledge, and trust your gut when you walk the grounds. The right apartment is out there, and now you know whether The Prescott is it.


How to Apply at The Prescott and Get Approved

Before you fall in love with a unit, let’s talk about actually getting approved. The Prescott uses standard screening, but knowing the process upfront saves headaches.

Income Requirements

Most units require gross monthly income of 3x the rent. So for a $1,500/month apartment, that’s $4,500/month or $54,000/year before taxes. Some units qualify for 2.5x with an additional deposit.

What counts as income:

  • W-2 employment (easiest path)
  • 1099/self-employment (expect to provide 2 years of tax returns)
  • Offer letters for new jobs (usually accepted if start date is within 30-60 days)
  • Co-signer income (if you don’t qualify on your own)

Documents to Have Ready

Gather these before you tour. Austin’s market moves fast, and being prepared means you can apply same-day when you find the right unit:

  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Proof of income (2-3 recent pay stubs or offer letter)
  • Bank statements (some properties ask for these)
  • Previous landlord contact info
  • Social Security number for credit/background check

How Long Approval Takes

  • Instant to 24 hours: Straightforward applications with all docs submitted
  • 24-48 hours: Standard processing with employment and landlord verification
  • 3-5 days: When additional documentation is needed or your previous landlord is slow to respond

Application Fees

  • Application fee: ~$50-75 per adult applicant (non-refundable)
  • Admin fee: ~$150-250 (paid when you’re approved)
  • Holding deposit: Usually equal to one month’s rent (typically converts to your security deposit)

Pro tip: Before paying the application fee, ask the leasing agent directly: “Based on what I’ve told you about my income and rental history, do you see any red flags that might cause denial?” A good agent will give you honest feedback. If they seem uncertain or wave you off, that’s information too.

Negotiating in Today’s Market

Here’s something most renters miss: you have leverage right now.

Austin’s vacancy rate has hovered around 10% lately. That’s high by historical standards. Properties like The Prescott need to fill units, which means:

  • Move-in specials can sometimes be negotiable (ask for extra free weeks)
  • Fees might be waivable (pet rent, pet deposits) with an emotional support animal
  • Lease terms have flexibility (shorter or longer than standard)
  • Rent itself could have wiggle room on slower-moving units with better move in specials

Worst case, they say no. Best case? You save hundreds or thousands over your lease.

Questions to ask when negotiating:

  1. “Is there any flexibility on the admin fee?”
  2. “Can you match the special I saw at [competitor property]?”
  3. “If I sign a 14-month lease instead of 12, can you throw in another week free?”
  4. “Are there any preferred employer discounts I might qualify for?”

And one more time for the people in the back: GET EVERYTHING IN WRITING ON YOUR LEASE. Verbal promises mean nothing. If the leasing agent says “we’ll waive the pet deposit,” that better appear in your lease documents. No exceptions.


The Prescott vs. Nearby South Austin Apartments

Comparing options? Here’s how The Prescott stacks up against nearby competitors (pricing verified January 2025 via Apartments.com):

PropertyBase Rent (1BR)Year BuiltWalk ScorePet SpaIn-Unit W/DKey Difference
The Prescott$1,205+202242Best amenities for price point
Windsor South Congress$1,209+202044Similar location, rooftop lounge
Lenox SoCo$1,249+201931Gaming lounge, poolside cabanas
The Martingale$1,041+202240Lower base rent, curated art vibe
Monterey Ranch$905+199525Most unitsBudget option, 5 pools, older

Choose The Prescott if: Amenities and pet-friendliness are your top priorities and you’re fine with Far South Austin.

Choose Windsor South Congress if: You want similar amenities plus a rooftop lounge and beer garden atmosphere.

Choose The Martingale if: You want the lowest base rent among newer properties and appreciate artsy design touches.

Choose Monterey Ranch if: Budget matters most and you can trade newer finishes for significantly lower rent and expansive grounds.


Frequently Asked Questions About The Prescott Apartments

How much is rent at The Prescott Austin?

Rent ranges from $1,049 for studios to $3,825 for the largest 3-bedrooms. Realistically, budget $1,400-$1,600/month for a 1-bedroom and $1,800-$2,200/month for a 2-bedroom after specials. Rates change often, so always verify current pricing.

Is The Prescott pet friendly?

Yes, dogs and cats are both allowed. Expect a $300 one-time deposit plus $25/month pet rent per pet. The property has a pet spa with grooming stations, an on-site dog park, and some ground-floor units even come with private fenced yards.

What amenities does The Prescott have?

Resort-style pool with summer kitchen, 24-hour fitness center with Mirror technology, pet spa, dog park, coworking spaces with bookable private offices, EV charging, courtyard with fire pits and hammocks, and a game room. All units have in-unit washer/dryer, granite counters, and stainless appliances.

Is The Prescott actually on South Congress?

Technically yes, it’s at 8200 S Congress Ave. But that’s Far South Austin near Southpark Meadows, about 6 miles south of the trendy SoCo strip (1200-1800 S Congress). You won’t be walking to the iconic shops and bars from here.

Does The Prescott have move-in specials?

Typically yes, expect 8-10 weeks free rent on select units. Specials vary by unit, lease length, and move-in date. Always verify current offers and ask if free rent can be spread across your lease instead of applied upfront.

What are the reviews like for The Prescott?

4.2/5 stars on ApartmentRatings with 270+ reviews. Residents praise the maintenance team, amenities, and move-in process. Main complaints are noise between units and occasional management turnover. Top-floor corner units significantly reduce noise issues.

How long does approval take at The Prescott?

Usually 24-48 hours with complete documentation. Straightforward applications may get same-day approval. If they need additional verification or your previous landlord is slow to respond, expect 3-5 business days.

What’s the parking situation at The Prescott?

Free surface parking for residents. Covered carport runs $40/month, garage parking is $150/month. Guest parking is limited and can be tricky during evening hours if you host visitors often.


My Bottom Line on The Prescott Apartments

The Prescott isn’t trying to be everything to everyone, and honestly, that’s its strength. It’s a well-maintained, amenity-rich property in Far South Austin that delivers real value for remote workers, pet owners, and renters who care more about their living space than a trendy address. It’s not the iconic South Congress experience the marketing suggests, but it’s a genuinely nice place to live if the location works for you.

Here’s what matters most: request a top-floor corner unit to minimize noise, calculate your true monthly cost including all fees before committing, and get every special and promise in writing on your lease (not just in an email). Those three moves will determine whether you love living here or regret it.

You now know more about this property than most residents did when they signed. Use it. Tour with specific questions, negotiate from a position of knowledge, and trust your gut when you walk the grounds. The right apartment is out there, and now you know whether The Prescott is it.

About Ross Quade

Ross Quade is the founder of Austin Apartment Team, providing apartment locating services to help renters find their ideal home across the Austin metro area. He and his team have toured 500+ properties and helped hundreds of renters navigate Austin’s competitive rental market—all at no cost to you. Reach out online or text us and you’ll hear back within 15 minutes with personalized guidance from search to signed lease.


Last updated: January 2026. Pricing, specials, and availability change frequently. Always verify current info directly with The Prescott leasing office.