19, 37 Cherry Orchard Road, Croydon, London, CR0

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Aldgate East has turned out to be such a hidden gem. From the tube stop straight out your front door, to the incredibly restaurants in every direction, to the parks and markets just a short bike ride away, we've found this area to be so much more vibrant, exciting, and fun than we ever could have imagined.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Whether you need help getting all your packages upstairs or your laundry machine moved the Alma team rises to the occasion. It's super easy to fill out a maintenance request in their residents' app and they acknowledge it right away, taking the feedback seriously - no matter how big or small.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

It is such an underrated treat to have a building management team that truly cares. It's not just about getting a maintenance request addressed - it's about getting your feet on the ground in a new city, coming home to people who care, and feeling like you're a part of a community, both within the building and throughout the surrounding area. The Alma is all that and more. Because of the relationships the staff have established with local restaurants, shops, and grocers, we've gotten to know so many other people throughout East London, ventured to new places we might have otherwise skipped, and had experiences we never expected. Whether it's a private tour of Whitechapel Gallery or a residents' event catered by Ara, we have absolutely loved getting to known this little corner of London.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Living at the new British Waterways has been a wonderful experience so far. The location is unbeatable, with a great mix of shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants just a short walk away. Having the canal right on the doorstep adds a sense of peace and open space, perfect for walks and relaxation. Transport links are excellent, making it easy to get around Nottingham and further. The area feels safe and well looked after, with regular bin collections and well-maintained streets. Parking is just across the road. I have yet to experience any issues with noise or antisocial behaviour, it really is a fantastic place to call home.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

The building management team has been excellent. On the occasions when I’ve needed to ask something, they’ve always responded quickly and helped with whatever the matter was. It’s very reassuring knowing they are so approachable and reliable.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

I wish I would have known just how close everything is; I would have been even more thrilled and excited when my move in date was approaching!

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

We’ve recently moved to Ancoats/East Piccadilly from the City Centre where we were of course in the middle hub of everything. It was important for us, as we don’t have a vehicle, to be able to have easy access to transport. We found the perfect location. Mere steps away from a tram stop and a few streets from Piccadilly Station. Plenty of bus routes too. Plus abundant foodie choices and bars/pubs. We had previously lived on a terribly noisy square, which affected our sleep and prompted our move. Since moving we have had nothing but quiet, uninterrupted sleep since moving into our flat at The Castings. Bliss.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

We found one issue upon move in which was an unpainted area on the ceiling, which maintenance came and took care of in 2 days. Amazing.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

The on-site trolleys could be a bit larger for moving in and out. This is really a petty thing to moan about, but is actually helpful for moving.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Great location - close to public transit with a lot of restaurants, shops and bars within walking distance. 15-20 min walk to the city of London as well.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Yes. Promptly and efficiently. Wine cooler was looked into and repairs initiated immediately.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Fob entry throughout. Bit tricky to navigate with family and friends visiting and only 1 key per leaseholder. But the building management team is there to help. Has been smooth sailing.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

The neighborhood is a perfect location for us, with something interesting to do in every direction. To the north are Spitalfields Market, Brick Lane, and the Columbia Road Flower Market. Just east is Liverpool Street and the City, which is convenient for work. To the south are the Tower of London, the river, and plenty of tourist attractions when we want to explore. Within a block we have three grocery stores, lots of gyms, and a wide variety of restaurants. When we do want to explore outside our neighborhood, we’re right on top of Aldgate East tube station, with Aldgate station just two blocks away, making transport incredibly convenient.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Building management at The Alma has been absolutely outstanding. Tickets are always resolved quickly, and the staff go above and beyond to make life here enjoyable. Tom truly cares about the residents — he’s always around, approachable, and even once came up late at night to help me with a laundry question. Olivia is wonderful; she keeps the management office door open, always takes time to chat, gives us great food and activity recommendations, and is incredibly thoughtful. Daisy at the front desk was so patient and welcoming during our tours, making our first impression of the building feel warm and positive. Sebastian is upbeat and kind, always checking in on how our day is going and giving us fun weekend suggestions or local spots to explore. Beverly is consistently professional and welcoming, greeting us warmly whenever we come through the lobby. Zora brings a friendly and reliable presence at the front desk, always happy to help with anything we need. Sattar from maintenance is extremely helpful, not only fixing things promptly but even assisting us with hanging items in the apartment. Zaba on the night team is attentive and reassuring, giving us peace of mind when we come in late. Faizan is thoughtful and caring — he always greets us by name, checks in about our night, and even shares great chocolate recommendations, which we love. Emmanuel has a consistently positive attitude, greeting us with a smile late at night and making the building feel safe and welcoming. Every single person here contributes to making The Alma feel like home, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the team.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Honestly there is nothing that stands out as something we wish we knew ahead of time.