Overall sentiment from the collected reviews is mixed: there are several clear strengths around building condition, location, affordability, basic services, and common spaces, but there are also very serious and recurring concerns—most notably pest infestation and problematic management behavior—that materially affect resident wellbeing.
Facilities and living units: Multiple reviewers report that the building has been renovated and looks pleasant, and a gazebo by the water is highlighted as a positive amenity. Apartments are described as small studio or one-bedroom units intended for independent living in a 62+ community. Rent is repeatedly cited as a strong value proposition, with one reviewer noting a reported rate of $500 per month with all utilities included. However, limited room variety and small apartment footprints are consistent criticisms; at least one reviewer suggested offering larger units with full bathrooms.
Staff and management: Accounts of staff and management are inconsistent and a major area of concern. Some reviewers praise elements of staffing, such as a kind manager, 24/7 front desk coverage, and responsive maintenance. At the same time, other reviews make serious allegations that management has threatened residents and encouraged staff to threaten residents. Several comments point to management ignoring or inadequately addressing resident complaints, particularly around pest control. This inconsistency suggests variable resident experiences and potential problems with managerial practices and complaint resolution.
Dining, activities, and social life: The community is positioned as independent living with self-cooking required, and at least one reviewer explicitly said there is no food service. There are positive notes about social spaces — a library/puzzle area and a large recreation room used for social events — and some families say they are pleased with De Soto Towers for these reasons. Conversely, other reviewers claim there are no activities, indicating a discrepancy between advertised or available programming and residents' perceptions or usage. This mixed feedback implies programming may be limited, irregular, or unevenly marketed to residents.
Pest issues and health concerns: The most serious and recurring negative theme is bed bug infestation. Multiple reviews recount bed bug problems, reports that initial insecticide treatments were ineffective, and criticism that management did not follow through with comprehensive remediation. One reviewer mentioned involvement of the health department and other comments call for building-wide fumigation instead of one-off sprays. These reports point to an unresolved or poorly managed pest control problem that creates significant health, safety, and quality-of-life concerns for residents.
Safety and emergency readiness: Several reviewers compliment the community on safety preparations, especially during storms, and appreciate on-site maintenance and 24/7 front desk staffing. At least one family member stated they felt comfortable with an elderly relative placed there, suggesting that for some residents the facility provides an acceptable level of daily safety and supervision for independent living.
Conclusion and recommendations: De Soto Towers appears to offer strong value for budget-conscious seniors seeking independent living in a renovated building with basic on-site services and social spaces. However, the repeated reports of bed bugs and the perceived failure of management to adequately address those complaints, together with allegations of hostile management behavior, are red flags that prospective residents and their families should investigate thoroughly. Before moving a loved one in, ask management directly about recent pest history and remediation records, written pest-control plans, staff training and complaint procedures, activity schedules, room-size options, and terms of lease. Also consider speaking with current residents and families about management responsiveness and verifying the presence and responsiveness of maintenance and front-desk staff. These steps will help balance the facility's clear advantages against the very significant concerns documented by multiple reviewers.
