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Ashland Commons: A Mixed-Income Apartment Community in Columbia

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What Ashland Commons offers

Ashland Commons is a mixed-income apartment community in Columbia developed and managed by DLH Properties. The community includes both market-rate and affordable units, meaning some apartments are reserved for households earning below the area median income, while others rent at standard market prices. The property sits in an established neighborhood with access to local schools, shopping, and transit routes.

The community features one- and two-bedroom floor plans with standard apartment amenities. Residents have access to common areas, parking, and on-site management. Because DLH Properties manages the property directly, maintenance requests and lease questions go through their office rather than a third-party management company.

Key Takeaways

  • Ashland Commons includes both affordable and market-rate units, so income limits apply only to the affordable portion of the community.
  • The property is managed by DLH Properties, which handles leasing, maintenance, and resident services from an on-site office.
  • One- and two-bedroom floor plans are available, with pricing that varies by unit type and whether the apartment is income-restricted.
  • The location provides access to Columbia schools, retail, and public transportation routes serving the midlands.

Income limits and affordability restrictions

Not all units at Ashland Commons are income-restricted. The affordable portion of the community serves households at or below a certain percentage of the area median income—typically 60 percent or 80 percent, depending on the funding source. Market-rate units have no income limits and rent at prevailing rates for the area.

If you are interested in an affordable unit, you will need to provide proof of household income during the leasing process. This usually means recent pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer. DLH Properties staff can tell you which units are currently available under affordability restrictions and what income documentation they require.

How to contact DLH Properties about Ashland Commons

To learn about current availability, floor plans, and rent prices, contact DLH Properties directly. They maintain an on-site leasing office where you can tour units, ask questions about lease terms, and submit a lease application. Phone and email contact information is typically available through their main office or the property's website.

When you call or visit, have your income documentation ready if you are interested in an affordable unit. DLH Properties can walk you through what they need and explain the timeline for lease approval. If units are not currently available, they can add you to a waiting list or let you know when the next opening is expected.

Lease terms and move-in requirements

Standard lease terms at Ashland Commons typically run for 12 months, though DLH Properties may offer shorter or longer options depending on availability. Most landlords in Columbia require a security deposit equal to one month's rent, plus proof of income and a clean background and rental history check.

Some properties offer move-in specials or reduced deposits during slower leasing periods. Ask DLH Properties whether any current promotions apply to the unit you are interested in. They can also explain their pet policy, utility arrangements, and any additional fees for parking or amenities.

Neighborhood and location details

Ashland Commons sits in a residential area of Columbia with established schools and shopping nearby. The location provides reasonable access to downtown Columbia and other parts of the midlands through local roads and public transit. Residents can walk or drive to grocery stores, restaurants, and retail without traveling far.

The neighborhood has a mix of single-family homes and apartment communities, creating a stable residential environment. If you work in central Columbia or attend a local school, the location may reduce your commute compared to other parts of the metro area.

What to expect during the leasing process

The leasing process at Ashland Commons begins with a tour and conversation with DLH Properties staff. They will show you available floor plans, explain rent and lease terms, and answer questions about the community. If you decide to move forward, you will complete a lease application and provide the required documentation.

DLH Properties will review your application, conduct a background and rental history check, and verify your income if you are applying for an affordable unit. Approval typically takes one to two weeks. Once approved, you will sign the lease, pay the security deposit and first month's rent, and receive your move-in date and keys from the on-site office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to meet an income limit to rent at Ashland Commons?

Only if you are interested in an affordable unit. Market-rate units at Ashland Commons have no income restrictions. When you contact DLH Properties, ask which units are income-restricted and what the limits are for each.

What documents do I need to bring to apply?

You will need a government-issued ID, recent pay stubs or tax returns to verify income, and permission for a background and rental history check. If you are applying for an affordable unit, bring extra income documentation. DLH Properties can tell you exactly what they need before you visit.

Can I get on a waiting list if no units are available right now?

Yes. Contact DLH Properties and ask to be added to their waiting list. They will contact you when a unit matching your needs becomes available. Waiting times vary depending on demand and turnover at the property.

Are utilities included in the rent?

That depends on the specific lease. Some units include water and trash in the rent; others require you to pay utilities separately. DLH Properties will explain the utility arrangement for each unit during the leasing process.

What is the pet policy at Ashland Commons?

DLH Properties sets the pet policy for the community. Some properties allow pets with a deposit or monthly fee; others do not. Ask about breed and size restrictions, pet deposits, and any monthly pet rent when you contact them about available units.