Pine Lakes Apartments in Columbia: What to Know Before You Move

Pine Lakes Apartments is a mid-size residential community in Columbia's northeast area

Pine Lakes Apartments sits off Farrow Road in northeast Columbia, near the intersection with Two Notch Road. The community offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans in a garden-style layout with multiple buildings spread across the grounds. The property includes amenities like a fitness center, pool, and community room, along with parking for residents and guests.

The location puts you within a few miles of shopping, dining, and services along Two Notch Road and the Farrow Road corridor. It's also reasonably close to downtown Columbia and the University of South Carolina campus, making it accessible for people who work or study in those areas. The neighborhood itself is primarily residential, with other apartment communities and single-family homes nearby.

Key Takeaways

• Pine Lakes offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom units in a garden-style setting with on-site amenities including a fitness center and pool.
• The property is located in northeast Columbia near Farrow Road and Two Notch Road, close to shopping and services but separate from downtown.
• Lease terms, move-in costs, and current availability change regularly, so contacting the leasing office directly gives you accurate information for your timeline.
• The community accepts applications from prospective residents, though specific requirements and processes are best confirmed by speaking with the leasing team.

Floor plans and unit sizes

Pine Lakes offers three main bedroom configurations. One-bedroom units are the smallest option and typically appeal to single residents or couples. Two-bedroom floor plans are the most common size at most apartment communities and work well for small families, roommate situations, or people who want a dedicated home office or guest room. Three-bedroom units provide more space and are less common in the market, making them useful if you have children or need extra room.

Each floor plan includes a kitchen, living area, and bathroom or bathrooms depending on size. Many units have a patio or balcony. The exact square footage, layout details, and which units are currently available are best confirmed by contacting the leasing office directly, since inventory changes as residents move in and out.

Amenities and community features

The property includes a fitness center for residents, a swimming pool that typically operates seasonally, and a community room for gatherings or events. Parking is available on-site for residents and their guests. The grounds are maintained by the management company, which handles landscaping and common area upkeep.

Beyond what's on the property itself, the northeast Columbia location means you're near grocery stores, restaurants, and retail shops along Two Notch Road. The area has several parks and recreational facilities within a short drive, and you're close enough to downtown Columbia and the University of South Carolina for work or school commutes.

How to contact Pine Lakes and what to expect

The leasing office is your starting point for any questions about the community. You can visit in person during business hours to tour available units, ask about floor plans, and discuss lease terms and move-in requirements. Phone calls and online inquiries are also options if you prefer to gather initial information before visiting.

When you contact the leasing office, have questions ready about current availability, lease lengths, rent amounts, and what's included in your lease (utilities, trash, parking, etc.). They can also explain the application process, what documentation they need, and typical timelines for approval and move-in. Visiting in person lets you see the units and grounds firsthand and get a feel for the neighborhood.

Lease terms and move-in information

Lease lengths, rent amounts, and move-in costs vary depending on the unit size, floor plan, and current market conditions. Most apartment communities require a security deposit, and some charge additional fees for pets, parking, or other services. The leasing office can provide a full breakdown of what you'll owe upfront and what your monthly rent will be.

Lease terms typically range from six months to one year or longer, though options vary by community and availability. The lease itself is a legal document that outlines your rights and responsibilities as a resident, what the management company provides, and the terms under which either party can end the lease. It's worth reading carefully and asking questions about anything unclear before you sign.

Neighborhood and nearby attractions

The northeast Columbia area around Pine Lakes is primarily residential and commercial, with a mix of apartment communities, single-family homes, and retail corridors. Two Notch Road is a main commercial strip with restaurants, grocery stores, and shops. The area is quieter than downtown but still connected to the broader city by major roads.

Within a short drive, you'll find parks like Sesquicentennial State Park, which has trails, a lake, and picnic areas. The University of South Carolina campus is a few miles away, and downtown Columbia—with its museums, restaurants, and cultural venues—is accessible for day trips or evening outings. The location works well if you want residential peace without being isolated from the city's attractions.

What to consider before moving

Before committing to Pine Lakes or any apartment, visit at different times of day to get a sense of noise levels, traffic, and how the community feels. Talk to current residents if you can—they'll give you honest feedback about management, maintenance response times, and day-to-day living. Check the lease carefully for any clauses about rent increases, lease renewal terms, or early termination fees.

Think about your commute to work or school and whether the location works for your schedule. Consider whether the amenities offered matter to you and whether the rent fits your budget long-term. If you have pets, confirm the pet policy, any breed or size restrictions, and associated fees. These details matter more than the glossy marketing materials, so take time to ask real questions and trust your instincts about whether the place feels right.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I schedule a tour of Pine Lakes Apartments?

Contact the leasing office by phone or visit in person during business hours. You can also check their website or social media pages for information about tour availability. Most communities offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your calendar.

What utilities are typically included in rent at apartment communities?

This varies by property and lease. Some apartments include water, trash, and basic cable; others include nothing. Your lease will specify exactly what's covered and what you pay separately. Ask the leasing office for a complete list before signing.

Are pets allowed at Pine Lakes?

Pet policies differ by community. Contact the leasing office to learn whether pets are permitted, what types and sizes are allowed, whether there are breed restrictions, and what pet fees or deposits apply.

What should I bring to a lease signing?

Typically you'll need a government-issued ID, proof of income (recent pay stubs or tax returns), and possibly references. The leasing office will tell you exactly what documents to bring when you're ready to sign.

Can I break my lease early if I need to move?

Early lease termination policies vary. Some communities allow it with a penalty fee; others don't allow it at all. Your lease will spell out the terms. Ask about this before you sign if there's any chance your situation might change.