The Merchant

Reviews

• SC

  Sumerlyn Carruthers

  Jun 30, 2026
  5.0
  The best, most low stress move-in process I've ever experienced! The apartment was so clean, I didn't even have to clean it myself prior to moving in, and the amenities and general area around the buildings are beautiful. Heather was also so nice and super helpful!
• LA

  Lydia Arsta

  Jun 29, 2026
  5.0
  I'm a vendor who's had the opportunity to be onsite at The Merchant many times, and I've seen firsthand what makes this community stand out. The Merchant truly sets the standard for luxury apartment living, and it's because of the people behind the scenes. Frank, the Maintenance Supervisor, is one of the most detail-oriented people I've ever met. It's hard to find someone who cares about whether every pebble in a flower bed is perfectly placed, but that's Frank. A light bulb out in the breezeway? Doubt it. Frank has probably already replaced it before anyone even notices. That level of pride and ownership is rare, and it shows throughout the entire community. Jade is an incredible Property Manager as well. She's professional, welcoming, and always has a smile on her face. Every visit is a pleasure because of the atmosphere she and Frank have created. One thing I especially appreciate is that The Merchant actually feels like Charleston. So many newer downtown communities have a beautiful, modern look, but they could just as easily be in any other city. The Merchant intentionally embraces Charleston's character. The colorful buildings remind me of Rainbow Row, the landscaping is gorgeous, and there are so many inviting paths to walk your dog or simply wander around and enjoy the property. It has a charm that's becoming harder to find. Not all "luxury" communities are created equal. If you've rented long enough, you know the difference isn't just in the finishes. It's in the care, the cleanliness, and the people who genuinely take pride in where they live and work. The Merchant is easily one of the cleanest, best-maintained communities on the peninsula. It takes a village, and this property is fortunate to have a team like Frank and Jade!
• CF

  clara feltus

  Jun 11, 2026
  1.0
  If I could rate this apartment complex a 0, I would. Disgusting moldy apartments with horrible, money hungry management. Do not live here unless you want to be screwed over when you try to move out.
• AR

  Anonymous Renter

  Jun 11, 2026
  1.0
  Don't believe the 5 star reviews you see here. This place is horrible. Cheaply built. Office is unresponsive. Takes FOREVER to have basic maintenance requests done. Many apartments filled with MOLD and TERMITES and they don't care or try and help at all. I could not get ahold of a single individual at Waterton, or anywhere above The Merchant to complain about their business practices. They have 0 human decency and will charge you for whatever they feel like. DO NOT RENT HERE!!!
• TK

  The Karatemaster

  May 27, 2026
  1.0
  I love how a reviewer says "beware of fake negative reviews" meanwhile there are a TON of 5 star reviews from 1-review accounts naming the same specific staff members or only mentioning the tour. That should speak volumes. Basically this place is overpriced as all hell. I moved in and as my lease expired they sent me a renewal form which increased my rent a ridiculous amount. The apartment in my opinion just aren't worth what they are charging, especially given the problems they have. I've seen numerous car break ins. I also would say if you have to live here only choose the top floor because you will hear every single footstep above you. There is also a lot of train traffic. If your only criteria is living somewhat close to downtown and you want to pay a lot of money for a basic apartment in a not great area that they probably will raise rates on you every renewal, this is a great place to live. But hey the common areas look nice.