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Redtail on the River Apartments: Student Housing Near the University of South Carolina

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What Redtail on the River Offers

Redtail on the River is a private student housing community located near the University of South Carolina's campus in Columbia. The complex sits on the Congaree River and provides furnished apartments designed for undergraduate and graduate students. Units range from one-bedroom to four-bedroom layouts, with common amenities including a fitness center, study spaces, a pool, and a clubhouse.

The apartments are fully furnished, meaning beds, desks, kitchen appliances, and living room furniture come included. Each unit has its own washer and dryer, which sets it apart from many on-campus residence halls. Internet and cable are typically included in the rent, though you should confirm current offerings when you contact the leasing office.

Because Redtail is privately owned rather than university-operated, the leasing process and lease terms differ from on-campus housing. You sign a direct lease with the property management company, not with the university. This means you are responsible for understanding your individual lease agreement, including move-in dates, rent payment schedules, and cancellation policies.

Key Takeaways

  • Redtail on the River provides furnished apartments with washer and dryer units included, located on the Congaree River near USC's campus.
  • Leases are signed directly with the property management company, not through the university, so review your lease terms carefully before committing.
  • Rent typically includes internet and cable, but you should confirm what utilities and services are covered in your specific lease.
  • The complex offers amenities like a fitness center, pool, and study spaces, but availability and hours may vary by season or occupancy.
  • You can contact the leasing office directly to ask about current availability, pricing, and any move-in specials or payment plans they may offer.

Location and Getting to Campus

Redtail on the River sits along the Congaree River in the Congaree Vista neighborhood, which is within walking distance or a short drive to USC's main campus. The proximity depends on which campus buildings you attend most often—some classrooms are closer than others. The location also puts you near restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues in the Vista district.

If you rely on public transportation, COMET (the Columbia public transit system) serves the area with bus routes connecting to campus. Parking is available at the complex, though you may want to ask whether a parking spot is included in your lease or if there is an additional fee. Many students also bike or walk to campus from this location, depending on their class schedule and weather.

Lease Terms and Move-In Process

Redtail operates on a lease cycle that may differ from the academic calendar. Some leases run for 12 months, while others align more closely with the school year. When you contact the leasing office, ask specifically about lease start and end dates, because signing a 12-month lease means you are responsible for rent during summer break and winter break unless you arrange a sublet.

Move-in typically requires a security deposit, first month's rent, and sometimes a move-in fee. The leasing office can tell you the exact amounts and what payment methods they accept. If you need to break your lease early, there are usually penalties outlined in your lease agreement—read this section carefully before signing, because early termination fees can be substantial.

The leasing office handles maintenance requests, rent payment processing, and lease renewals. Keep their contact information handy and report any maintenance issues promptly, as response times and repair policies are part of your lease.

Roommate Matching and Unit Selection

If you are renting a multi-bedroom unit, you may be able to choose your roommates or request roommate matching through the leasing office. Some students come with a group of friends already decided; others arrive alone and need to be paired with other residents. Ask the leasing office how their matching process works and whether you can request specific roommates or request to be matched based on lifestyle preferences.

Unit selection often happens on a first-come, first-served basis once your lease is signed, though some properties hold a selection event where residents can choose their specific apartment and bedroom. Confirm with the leasing office when and how unit selection occurs so you do not miss the opportunity to choose.

Costs and What Is Included

Rent varies depending on unit size, lease length, and current market rates. A one-bedroom costs less than a four-bedroom, but when split among roommates, a four-bedroom may be cheaper per person. The leasing office publishes current pricing, and rates may change from year to year or by semester.

Most leases include internet, cable, water, and trash removal. Electricity may or may not be included—this is a detail that changes, so confirm it in writing before you sign. Furnished units mean you do not need to buy beds or major furniture, which saves money upfront, though you may want to bring personal items and decorations.

Some properties offer move-in specials, such as waived fees or reduced first-month rent, especially during off-peak leasing periods. It is worth asking the leasing office whether any current promotions apply to your lease dates.

Contacting Redtail on the River

To learn about current availability, pricing, and lease terms, contact the leasing office directly by phone or visit the property in person. The leasing team can answer questions about specific floor plans, amenities, parking, and any current promotions. They can also walk you through the lease signing process and explain what happens after you move in.

If you are comparing Redtail to other private student housing options or to on-campus residence halls, make a list of what matters most to you—proximity to campus, specific amenities, lease flexibility, or cost—and ask each property how they meet those needs. This helps you make a decision based on your actual priorities rather than marketing alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Redtail on the River owned by the university?

No, Redtail is privately owned and operated. You sign a lease directly with the property management company, not with USC. This means the university does not manage your lease, handle disputes, or set the terms—that is between you and the property.

Can I get out of my lease early if I need to leave before it ends?

Early lease termination is usually possible but comes with penalties outlined in your lease agreement. The cost of breaking a lease varies by property and how much time remains on your lease. Ask the leasing office for the specific early termination fee before you sign, and read that section of your lease carefully.

What utilities are included in the rent?

Internet and cable are typically included, along with water and trash removal. Electricity may or may not be included depending on your lease. Confirm exactly which utilities are covered in your lease agreement before signing, because this affects your total monthly cost.

Do I have to sign a 12-month lease, or can I lease for just the school year?

Lease lengths vary and depend on what the property is offering at the time you sign. Some leases are 12 months, while others may align with the academic calendar. Ask the leasing office what lease terms are currently available and whether any options match your needs.

Is parking included, or do I pay extra?

Parking availability and cost depend on your specific lease. Some leases include one parking spot; others charge an additional monthly fee or have limited parking. Confirm parking details with the leasing office and make sure your lease specifies whether you have a reserved spot or general lot access.