Currently a medical student and so far really enjoying my experience here.

FYI. This complex is now called Avana on Broad.

Pros:

-lots of floor space/sunlight. I love that I have lots of direct sunlight

- big balcony. The balcony has a screen door so I usually leave it open and let fresh air come in without worries about bugs

- affordable (compared to other apartments near the med school), especially if living alone

- most floor plans are partially renovated so only wood and no carpet

- community is pretty quiet and safe

Cons:

- occasionally there are bugs. But also keep in mind, I've talked to many other students and even those living at 'luxury' apartments have bugs. Comes with living in North Carolina

- about an 8 min drive to med school parking deck. not bad but won't be in the middle of the action. only 10 min away from downtown

- gates are sometimes left open. can be annoying. but still feel relatively safe

Overall, would recommend my apartment complex. Everyone who has come over are impressed on the space/lighting/renovations!

I really like this place - people are sweet and it feels safe. The only gripe I have is that they have significantly increased prices (like all other places have) in the past year. It’s still the cheapest I could find with the safety and space given with being relatively close to campus.

Discovery on Broad is a quiet neighborhood that is about 5-6 minutes from 9th street and 10 minutes from everything else in Durham, including Fuqua, downtown, etc. It is walking distance from a Costco, which is an amazing wholesale store. Only downside is that there is not a social/nightlife within walking distance; you will have to travel to 9th street or another nearby area.

It's not perfect or fancy by any means but it gets the job done. I get a lot of space for a very good price. I don't use the amenities of the property a ton with the exception of the gym (pre-Covid). The apartments are fairly updated, clean, and simple. I moved from NYC so having a large space with appliances was refreshing. My drive to campus is 8-10 minutes (you will need a car). I'm only about 2.5 miles from 9th street, 3-5 minute drive. Honestly, its the best kept secret. Most of my friends are amazed when they see my place and hear how much I pay. Also, there is a grocery store, Costco, and a few other stores within walking distance.

The biggest downsides are simple things like the front gate (almost always broken), and they don't really take great care of the pool or gym but again I rarely use them. For the two years I am in Durham, this place is PERFECT!

Altera North Pointe has nice apartments, is really quiet, has lots of parking, and has been an all around great experience.

Altera North Pointe is a great apartment community because it is very quiet and not too busy. It is only a 10-15 minute drive to Fuqua and is near Costco, Kroger, Ross, Bed Bath & Beyond, and other shopping areas. 9th Street is a 5 minute drive and it is easy and quick to get to Fuqua, the Heights on LaSalle, and downtown Durham. The apartments are spacious and comfortable. The community is gated plus they have pools, tennis courts, and a fitness center. It is one of the best deals I found for a one bedroom and utility costs are less than $75 for internet, electricity, and water/sewer.