Highland Glen Apartments in Columbia: What to Know Before You Move

Highland Glen is a residential community in Columbia with rental units across different floor plans

Highland Glen sits in the Midlands area of Columbia and offers apartment rentals in a community setting. The property includes one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans, with amenities that typically include parking, a fitness center, and common areas. Like any apartment community, Highland Glen has specific lease terms, move-in costs, and policies you should understand before signing.

Before you tour or contact the leasing office, gather information about what the community offers, what it costs to move in, and how the application process works. This guide walks you through what to expect and what questions to ask.

Key Takeaways

• Highland Glen offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in Columbia with standard amenities like parking and a fitness center.
• Move-in costs typically include first month's rent, a security deposit, and sometimes an application fee—amounts vary by floor plan and current promotions.
• The leasing office can tell you about current availability, lease terms, and any move-in specials during your first conversation.
• Most apartment communities require proof of income, a credit check, and references as part of the application process.
• Visiting in person or calling ahead lets you see the unit type you are interested in and ask about lease flexibility or payment options.

Floor plans and unit types at Highland Glen

Highland Glen rents one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. Each floor plan varies in square footage, layout, and price. One-bedroom units are typically the smallest and least expensive option; three-bedroom units offer more space and cost more per month. The leasing office can show you a model unit or floor plan when you visit.

Ask whether the unit you are interested in is currently available or when it will be ready for move-in. Some communities hold a waiting list if your preferred floor plan is occupied. You can also ask whether units are furnished or unfurnished, and what utilities (water, trash, internet) are included in rent versus what you pay separately.

Move-in costs and what to budget

Moving into an apartment involves several upfront expenses. Most communities require first month's rent and a security deposit at signing. Some also charge an application fee (usually nonrefundable) to run a background and credit check. The total can range significantly depending on the floor plan and current promotions.

Ask the leasing office for a written breakdown of all move-in costs before you commit. Some communities offer move-in specials—such as waived application fees or reduced deposits—during certain times of year. It is worth asking whether any specials apply to your move-in date. Also clarify the security deposit policy: when it is returned after you move out, what deductions are allowed, and how long the refund takes.

Amenities and community features

Highland Glen typically includes a fitness center, parking (assigned or unassigned), and common areas such as a clubhouse or courtyard. Some communities also offer pet-friendly policies, a pool, or laundry facilities. The specific amenities available may depend on which section of the property your unit is in.

During a tour, ask which amenities are included in your rent and which require an additional fee. For example, some communities charge extra for reserved parking or pet rent. If you have a pet, ask about breed and size restrictions, pet deposits, and monthly pet fees. Understanding these details upfront prevents surprises on your lease or first bill.

The application and approval process

Most apartment communities, including Highland Glen, require you to complete an application before a lease is signed. The application typically asks for personal information, employment history, income, and references. The leasing office will run a background check and review your credit history to assess risk.

Be prepared to provide recent pay stubs or a letter from your employer showing your income, a government-issued ID, and contact information for previous landlords or personal references. The approval process usually takes a few business days to a week. If you have concerns about your credit or background, discuss them with the leasing office before submitting the application—some communities work with applicants who have past issues if they can show current stability.

Lease terms and what to ask about

Apartment leases typically run for 6, 12, or 24 months, though terms vary by community and availability. Your lease spells out the monthly rent, what utilities you pay, pet policies, parking rules, quiet hours, and what happens if you break the lease early. Read the entire lease before signing and ask questions about anything unclear.

Common questions to ask: Is the rent fixed for the entire lease term, or does it increase? What is the penalty for breaking the lease early? Are there fees for late rent payments? What maintenance issues does the community handle versus what you are responsible for? Can you renew at the end of your lease, and if so, will the rent increase? Getting these answers in writing protects you later.

How to contact Highland Glen and schedule a tour

The leasing office is your first point of contact for questions about availability, pricing, and move-in details. You can visit in person during office hours, call to ask questions, or check the community's website for current listings and floor plan photos. Many communities also accept inquiries through email or online forms.

When you call or visit, have a list of questions ready: your desired move-in date, preferred floor plan, budget range, and any special needs (pet-friendly, ground floor, accessible unit). The leasing team can tell you what is available now and what may open up soon. If you cannot visit in person, ask whether they offer virtual tours or can send photos and videos of available units.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do I need to bring to apply?

Bring a government-issued ID, recent pay stubs or employment letter showing your income, and contact information for previous landlords or personal references. Some communities also ask for a Social Security number to run a background check. Call the leasing office ahead of time to confirm what they need.

Can I negotiate the rent or move-in costs?

Rent is usually set by the community, but move-in specials (such as waived fees or reduced deposits) are common during slower leasing periods. Ask the leasing office whether any promotions apply to your move-in date. It never hurts to ask, especially if you are signing a longer lease or moving during an off-peak season.

What happens if I need to move out before my lease ends?

Breaking a lease early typically results in a penalty, which is spelled out in your lease agreement. The penalty may be a flat fee, a portion of remaining rent, or forfeiture of your security deposit. Some communities allow you to find a replacement tenant to take over your lease, which may reduce or eliminate the penalty. Ask about this option before signing.

Are utilities included in the rent?

It varies by community and floor plan. Some include water and trash; others do not. Electricity and internet are usually your responsibility. Ask for a written list of what is included and what you pay separately so you can budget accurately.

Is there a waiting list if my preferred unit is not available?

Yes, most communities maintain a waiting list for popular floor plans or move-in dates. You can ask to be added to the list and get an estimate of when a unit may become available. Some communities will hold a unit for a short time if you are approved and willing to wait.