Overall sentiment across the reviews of McDermott 55 is positive, with repeated praise for the staff, cleanliness, and the physical features of the property. Reviewers consistently describe staff and management as friendly, helpful, patient, and willing to go out of their way to assist residents or prospective residents. Maintenance responsiveness is cited frequently — in some reviews maintenance fixes are completed within 24 hours — and many reviewers praised the overall cleanliness of both apartments and common areas. The property is viewed as safe and conveniently located near shopping, with transportation options like a bus to Walmart and rides to doctor appointments appreciated by residents.
Facilities and apartment features are strong selling points. Multiple reviews note large bedrooms, roomy bathrooms and kitchens, in-unit washers and dryers, wheelchair-accessible units with walk-in showers, stainless steel appliances and hardwood floors in newer units, and attractive common spaces and outdoor areas. The community offers both indoor and outdoor pools, an exercise/fitness area, and bench/walking areas around the property. Several reviewers mention scenic views (across Plano), and some describe living spaces as well-divided and comfortable. There is evidence that the campus includes both newer/brand-new building areas and older building sections — newer units and amenities are praised while some older areas show wear.
Dining and activity programming are areas with mixed or negative feedback. The community does not provide meal service; reviewers explicitly note “no food service” or “no meals offered,” so residents should plan for self-catering or outside dining. There is a monthly calendar of events and activities are offered, but several reviews state activities are poorly attended, lack variety, or were cancelled due to COVID-19. Some reviewers felt there should be greater diversity in programming and more consistent turnout. A few comments also mention that some residents were not friendly, which can affect social engagement and activity participation for newcomers.
Management, staffing, and operational consistency show both strengths and concerns. Many reviews praise management’s helpfulness, flexibility (including negotiated fees), and knowledgeability. However, several reviewers reported staffing shortages, difficulty finding new staff after a director departed, and intermittent staff availability. These staffing and turnover issues are presented as recent operational challenges that have affected service availability and activity coordination for some residents. Maintenance problems are mentioned as well — e.g., damaged bricks and other repair needs — but these are often balanced by reviewers who state maintenance responds quickly when contacted.
Cost and availability present a split picture. Multiple reviewers described McDermott 55 as affordable or cost-effective and within their price range; others called it pricey compared with similar options. Availability is limited at times (some noted only one unit available), which can drive perceived value up. Practical downsides noted by several reviewers include limited storage and closet space, occasional apartment cleanliness needing improvement before move-in, and the presence of older building areas that show wear. COVID-era activity cancellations were a specific short-term gripe but may not reflect ongoing conditions.
In summary, McDermott 55 is generally recommended by reviewers for its strong staff culture, clean and attractive facilities (especially in newer units), accessibility features, and convenient location with transportation options. Prospective residents should be aware that meal service is not provided, activity programming may be uneven in variety and attendance, and staffing/management turnover has been reported as a recent concern. Inspect apartments carefully for storage and condition (some older units show wear), and ask about current staffing levels and activity schedules. For those prioritizing friendly staff, responsive maintenance, accessible units, and a clean, safe community near shopping, McDermott 55 appears to be a solid choice; for those requiring on-site dining, a very active activities program, or the lowest possible price, it may warrant further comparison shopping.
